Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge - Spring Lake Unit

Illinois · Midwest

Habitat
LakeRiver/RiparianWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge - Spring Lake Unit is a productive birding destination in Illinois, with 226 species recorded on eBird. This lake and river/riparian habitat attracts Canada Goose and Trumpeter Swan among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Double-crested Cormorant

Nannopterum auritum

3/4/2026Bulger's Hollow Recreation Area3 observed

Iceland Gull (Thayer's)

Larus glaucoides

3/3/2026South Sabula Lakes Park1 observed

Ruffed Grouse

Bonasa umbellus

3/3/2026Wapello Land & Water Reserve1 observed

Iceland Gull

Larus glaucoides

3/1/2026Green Island WMA1 observed

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

3/1/2026Brown Residence (Private Property)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

23/5/2026

Trumpeter Swan

23/5/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge - Spring Lake Unit for birding?
The best months to visit Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge - Spring Lake Unit for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge - Spring Lake Unit?
Notable species at Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge - Spring Lake Unit include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake, river/riparian, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge - Spring Lake Unit?
Birding at Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge - Spring Lake Unit is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge - Spring Lake Unit?
Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Refuge - Spring Lake Unit offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.