The bi-state region contains some of the most diverse opportunities for birding anywhere in the upper Midwest. The warm summer months provide a chance to observe resident breeding birds, while spring and autumn funnel dozens of new species though our area as they migrate. The region is especially important as a breeding area for many wetland and grassland birds, including substantial populations of waterfowl such as mallards, blue-winged teal, and Canada geese. Check out some of the common bi-state birds featured below.
Learn more about these species on the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology’s All About Birds website, a great resource for birders. They also post recordings of birdsong, to help with identification.
Below are some the birds that migrate through Illinois:
