Species Finding Guide for DuPage County

Species Finding Guide for DuPage Co. If you are looking for a particular species, feel free to e-mail the DuPage Hotline for more detailed information regarding specific locations, when to look, and where they have most recently been seen. To go directly to a certain species hit "Ctrl F" on your keyboard and type the desired name
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Common Loon:
Often frequent deep water lakes stocked with fish. Best spots to see them include Mallard Lake, West Branch, and occasionally Blackwell.

Pied-Billed Grebe:
Usually found in bodies of water with marsh-like conditions. During spring and fall migration the best spot to look is usually McKee Marsh. In the summer Songbird Slough has been one of the best locations.

Horned Grebe:
Usually found in marshes or very deep lakes. Best spots to see them include Mallard Lake and West Branch. They have also been seen in the past at McKee Marsh and Hidden Lake.

Eared Grebe:
Usually found in marshes or very deep lakes. Best spots to see them include Mallard Lake and West Branch. FermiLab is also a very good location to check. Beware of molting birds (March and April). Horned Grebes and Eared Grebes can be very difficult to tell apart when they are in transitional plumage.

Double-Crested Cormorant:
Regularly seen during most of the year (except in winter). Large numbers are most often seen at FermiLab and at Nelson Lake in Kane County.

American Bittern:
Usually found in marshes with dense reeds or cattails. Springbrook Prairie and Pratt's Wayne Woods are excellent locations from late spring through very early fall. Lincoln Marsh is also a good spot to check.

Least Bittern:
Usually found in marshes with dense reeds or cattails. They are very secretive and are often only seen in flight. Watch for a small heron (smaller than a Green Heron) flying briefly up out of the reeds then quickly going back down. The marsh near the dog training field at Pratt's Wayne Woods is a good spot to look as well as other areas in the preserve. The marshes at Springbrook Prairie are also very good.

Great Blue Heron:
Regularly seen in many water locations during most of the year. In winter seasons when most head south a few remaining birds can still be found along open water at Hidden Lake or other areas along the DuPage River. FermiLab and the Morton Arboretum are other good winter spots.

Great Egret:
Regularly seen in many water locations during most of the year. The first birds seen in the spring and the last birds seen in the fall are usually seen at FermiLab and the Morton Arboretum. Large numbers (as many as 80) have been seen in previous years at McKee Marsh in early fall (August).

Snowy Egret:
Usually seen in shallow water marshes. One was seen at Lake Law at FermiLab in 2003 and one was seen at Herrick Marsh at Herrick Lake in 2000. Other previous locations where they have been seen include Pratt's Wayne Woods and the Morton Arboretum. Look for ablack bill with yellow lores and black legs with yellow feet, as well as curled plumes on the lower back. They are also smaller than Great Egrets.

Little Blue Heron:
Usually seen in shallow water marshes. Recently seen at locations including Eola Road Marsh (Radio Tower Marsh), Herrick Lake, and Lincoln Marsh. Juveniles are white like Egrets and can be difficult to pick out. Look for a bluish bill with a black tip and green legs. They also usually have a bit of black marking on the primaries. They are also smaller than Great Egrets.

Cattle Egret:
Usually found in select marshes or muddy fields. FermiLab is the only very reliable location.

Green Heron:
Usually found in lakes or marshes often ones with many frogs and tadpoles. Elsen's Hill has been the most reliable location in the past few year. Pratt's Wayne and The Morton Arboretum also have reliable locations.

Black-Crowned Night-Heron:
Usually found in marshes with willows or other dense shoreline cover. Eola Road Marsh (Radio Tower Marsh) has often had the earliest arrivals. The line of willows at Lincoln Marsh is a good location in the fall. Small numbers are also often present at FermiLab and are most often seen late in the evening along A.E. Sea and Lake Law as well as many of the other ponds.

Yellow-Crowned Night-Heron:
Usually found in marshes with willows or other dense shoreline cover. Most of the few sightings in DuPage County come from FermiLab. They have also been seen at Waterfall Glen on a couple occasions. One was also seen along the Fox River in Batavia (Kane County) in 2000.

Turkey Vulture:
Often seen flying in the sky at many locations. Pratt's Wayne Woods and Tri-County are the best locations.

Greater White-Fronted Goose:
Usually seen among large flocks of Canada Geese. FermiLab has been the only reliable location in the past few years. Occasional birds have also shown up at McKee Marsh and Lund Lake near McDowell Grove.

Snow Goose:
Usually found among flocks of Canada Geese. FermiLab is the best location. They have also been seen at McKee Marsh and other bodies of water. Flyovers have also been seen in other locations

Ross's Goose:
Usually found among flocks of Canada Geese. FermiLab is the best location. Be aware of Snow Goose X Ross's Goose hybrids and lesser Snow Geese which may appear to be smaller in size.

Canada Goose:
Abundant year-round in DuPage County. Many birds are now year-round residents. The largest migrating populations can be seen at FermiLab where flocks of birds (side by side) can at times completely cover an entire lake or field.

Mute Swan:
Often found in bodies of water in prairies or other open areas. Often found among geese. FermiLab and Pratt's Wayne are the most reliable spots in the county. They have also been seen at McKee Marsh. Note that birds seen in pairs are sometimes escapees or residents from private ponds or lakes.

Tundra Swan:
Often found in bodies of water in prairies or other open areas. Often found among geese. FermiLab is the most reliable spot in the county. Flyovers can also be seen in other locations, often in January.

Wood Duck:
Found in wood ponds or rivers. Common most of the year at many preserves along the DuPage River and other locations.

Gadwall:
Found in lakes or marshes. The best views of this bird are usually at McKee Marsh.

American Black Duck:
Usually found with groups of Mallards. McKee Marsh has long been the best location for this species.

Mallard:
Regularly seen in many water locations during most of the year. The largest gatherings are usually along along wide shallow sections of rivers and streams at Blackwell or Hidden Lake during migration.

Blue-Winged Teal:
Usually seen in lakes or marshes with some reeds and cattails. Good locations to get close-up views include McKee Marsh, Pratt's Wayne, and Springbrook Prairie.

Northern Shoveler:
Usually found in shallow lakes and marshes. McKee Marsh and FermiLab have large numbers in the spring and fall.

Northern Pintail:
Found in lakes or marshes. FermiLab and McKee Marsh usually have them in decent numbers in the early spring and fall.

Green-Winged Teal:
Usually seen in lakes with some reeds and cattails or along wide shallow sections of rivers. Hidden Lake is the best location in the winter when most birds have migrated south.

Ring-Necked Duck:
Seen in many ponds, lakes, and marshes during migration. FermiLab is probably the best location.

Greater Scaup:
Usually found on deep lakes. Lake Law and other lakes at FermiLab have been the only reliable locations, but birds can occasionally even be found in small roadside ponds and lakes.

Lesser Scaup:
Found regularly at a variety of lakes and marshes. FermiLab is probably the best location.

Bufflehead:
Most often found on deep lakes during migration. Best spots to see them include Mallard Lake and West Branch. They can also often be seen well at McKee Marsh and Hidden Lake.

Common Goldeneye:
Found in deep lakes or along large rivers. FermiLab is the best location. Anywhere along the river by Waterfall Glen is also a good spot to check. Pratt's Wayne Woods will also occasionally get them along with other marshy locations.

Hooded Merganser:
Found in lakes or marshes. FermiLab is the best location in the winter. McKee Marsh and Rice Lake at Danada F.P. have also had decent numbers some years.

Common Merganser:
Earliest arrivals in January are almost always seen along the creek at Blackwell or later in January at Hidden Lake. Many other locations including Mallard Lake and West Branch can be good later in the winter or early spring.

Red-Breasted Merganser:
The best location for this species is at Mallard Lake. West Branch and FermiLab can also be good locations.

Ruddy Duck:
Usually found in more shallow lakes and marshes. McKee Marsh is the best spot to see this bird as summer approaches. They have also summered in the past at Pratt's Wayne Woods.

Osprey:
Often found at marshes or by other bodies of water. Less common in recent years, but seen on occasion at McKee Marsh, Pratt's Wayne Woods, Springbrook Prairie, McDowell Grove, or other marshy locations. Nelson Lake is the best location in Kane County.

Bald Eagle:
Usually found near open bodies of water. Perched birds are most often seen at FermiLab. Flyovers can be seen in many areas especially along the Fox River in Kane County.

Northern Harrier:
Usually in marshes or open fields. FermiLab, and Greene Valley are good locations in winter. In summer months Springbrook Prairie has been a good location.

Northern Goshawk:
Usually seen flying over areas with large pine forests. The Morton Arboretum is the best location. They have also been seen at Waterfall Glen and Elsen's Hill. On low flying birds, look for the white supercilium and fine gray barring. Those familiar with Cooper's Hawks will also notice the deeper-bellied appearance of birds in flight. See the Sibley Guide to Birds for shape, wing-patterns of high flying birds, and differences in immature birds (which should be ID'd with extreme care).

Red-Shouldered Hawk:
Often found in fields near mature forests. Most recent locations are Pratt's Wayne Woods, Waterfall Glen, and Elsen's Hill. They have also been seen in past years at FermiLab and Hidden Lake. Migrants can be seen in a wider variety of locations.

Broad-Winged Hawk:
Usually seen migrating overhead. Mt. Hoy at Blackwell F.P. is the best location, but flyover birds can be seen at many locations. They have nested in the past at Maple Grove and Waterfall Glen.

Red-Tailed Hawk:
Common resident in DuPage County. The best close-up views are usually at FermiLab or the Morton Arboretum.

Rough-Legged Hawk:
A fairly common bird some years at FermiLab and sometimes at Greene Valley. They can also be seen at Pratt's Wayne Woods and Springbrook Prairie at times. Often seen hovering unlike most other buteos and large hawk-like birds. Numbers have been down in recent years.

Golden Eagle:
Usually seen migrating overhead in open areas. There are multiple reports from FermiLab. They have also been seen in recent years at West Branch and the Morton Arboretum.

American Kestrel:
Usually seen in open fields. FermiLab and Pratt's Wayne are the best locations to see them up close. They can also be seen well on occasion near the parking lot at Hidden Lake.

Merlin:
Usually seen in fields. FermiLab, the Morton Arboretum, and Hidden Lake have been the best locations. Other locations with fields also get occasional sightings.

Peregrine Falcon:
Usually seen in fields. Often attracted to large buildings in open areas that resemble cliffs. Best sights of this bird have been near Wilson Hall at FermiLab. Migrating birds have also been seen at various locations including many sightings at the Morton Arboretum and low flyovers at Greene Valley and Blackwell.

Wild Turkey:
Almost exclusively seen at Herrick Lake F.P. along Herrick Road. They are also sometimes seen in fields at St. James Farm on Mack Road, east of McKee Marsh. Also recently seen in various locations in S.E. DuPage County near Waterfall Glen.

Northern Bobwhite:
Usually found in large open fields. FermiLab is the best and only very good location for this bird. They can often be heard calling after dusk during certain months. Also seen at Pratt's Wayne.

Yellow Rail:
Usually heard calling from wet, dense, grassy or marshy areas. Heard in 2003 in at Pratt's Wayne near the pond by the tracks before the dog training field parking lot in late July and in August at Herrick Marsh at Herrick Lake.

Virginia Rail:
Usually heard calling from reeds or cattails. Most often seen along edges of marshes. Pratt's Wayne Woods and Springbrook Prairie have been excellent locations for this bird the past few years. Usually a bit more secretive than Sora's.

Common Moorhen:
Usually found in marshy areas. Pratt's Wayne Woods, Springbrook Prairie, FermiLab, and other large marshes are good locations. They are more common in Kane County and more rural areas. Increasingly difficult to find in DuPage County.

American Coot:
Regularly found in many marshes. Springbrook Prairie is a good location to get close-up views. McKee Marsh and FermiLab are also good locations.

Sandhill Crane:
Can be seen flying overhead at almost any location during migration. Birds will occasionally land at marshy areas such as Pratt's Wayne, McKee Marsh, or FermiLab. Breeding cranes are also present at Pratt's Wayne and Tri-County S.P.

Black-Bellied Plover:
Usually found on marsh edges and along mud flats, often in more rocky areas. The only recent sightings have been at FermiLab.

American Golden Plover:
Now rarely seen in DuPage County. A flock was seen near the landfill hill at Greene Valley in the early fall of 2003. Other suitable locations include FermiLab and the sod farms along Fabyan Road and Roosevelt Road.

Semipalmated Plover:
Usually found on marsh edges and along mud flats. Best views of this bird are at Lake Law or Swenson Road Pond at FermiLab or McKee Marsh.

Killdeer:
Common most of the year in DuPage County. Summering birds can be seen at many marshes and grass fields. They usually nest on the ground in rocky areas.

American Avocet:
A rare visitor to marshes. The most recent sightings have been at FermiLab's Lake Law and on the DuPage River at Hidden Lake.

Greater Yellowlegs:
Usually found in mid to deep-water marshes and along mud flats. Good locations include FermiLab's Lake Law, McKee Marsh, and Value City Marsh.

Solitary Sandpiper:
Most often found in "low quality" marshes and along muddy sections of rivers and streams. Common at many locations. Seen in largest numbers along the stream at Blackwell, McKee Marsh, and Value City Marsh.

Spotted Sandpiper:
Often found in "low quality" marshes and along muddy sections of rivers and streams. Common at many locations. Best seen close-up at Hidden Lake and FermiLab.

Upland Sandpiper:
Usually found in open fields in summer or in marshes during migration. Often perches upon poles or stumps. They have been reported almost exclusively at FermiLab the past few years, but are increasingly rare.

Ruddy Turnstone:
Found along large mudflats. Seen at Value City Marsh in late May of 1998 and at McKee Marsh in August of 1995. Several have been seen at FermiLab including one in 1994. All FermiLab records are from the Sea of Evanescence.

Red Knot:
A very rare visitor to DuPage county usually found at large mudflats. Seen at at FermiLab in September of 1998 and 2000 as well as in late May of 1997.

Sanderling:
Found along large mudflats, often rocky or sandy areas. Seen at Lake Law at FermiLab in late summer of 2002.

Semipalmated Sandpiper:
Usually found on marsh edges and along mud flats. FermiLab's Swenson Road Pond and Value City Marsh are the best locations. McKee Marsh, Greene Valley, and Pillsbury Pond in Kane County are also good sites.

Western Sandpiper:
Usually found on marsh edges and along mud flats. Often among flocks of Semipalmated Sandpipers. Lake Law and Swenson Road Pond at FermiLab have been good spots for this bird. One was also seen at Value City Marsh in 2003 and at Springbrook Prairie in the spring of 2004.

Least Sandpiper:
Usually found on marsh edges and along mud flats. Value City Marsh has had the largest numbers in the past. FermiLab and McKee Marsh are other good locations.

White-Rumped Sandpiper:
Usually found on marsh edges and along mud flats. Seen at Lake Law at FermiLab in late summer of 2002.

Baird's Sandpiper:
Usually found on marsh edges and along mud flats. Most recently seen at Lake Law in FermiLab and at McKee Marsh.

Pectoral Sandpiper:
Common during spring and fall migration at marshes and mud flats. Seen in large numbers at FermiLab and at McKee Marsh.

Dunlin:
Often seen in mid to late fall along shallow muddy shorelines at Lake Law or A.E Sea at FermiLab.

Stilt Sandpiper:
Fairly common during spring and fall migration at marshes and mud flats. Often seen at FermiLab's Lake Law in late summer through fall. Also seen often at McKee Marsh. Often overlooked in large flocks. Can be confused with yellowlegs and dowitchers when in nonbreeding plumage. Note shape, plain gray back, and slightly curved bill. Also note the green legs if well visible.

Buff-Breasted Sandpiper:
Rarely seen in DuPage Co. They prefer grassy areas like sod farms or the dryer outer edges of marshes. Seen at McKee Marsh in the late summer of 2003..

Long-Billed Dowitcher:
Somewhat rarer than the similar Short-Billed Dowitcher and usually seen later in the fall. FermiLab is the best location. Difficult to tell apart from Short-Billed Dowitchers. Birds seen in October and November are usually Long-Billed Dowitchers. Birds seen in August and September are usually Short-Billed, but there is overlap. See the Sibley Guide to Birds for key field marks helpful in separating these two similar species.

American Woodcock:
Usually found in grassy fields. Greene Valley and West Chicago Prairie are good places to look. Almost always seen near dusk when they perform their breeding displays in the air.

Wilson's Phalarope:
A rare sandpiper seen in marshes. Seen at Lake Law at FermiLab in 2002 and 2003. Can look similar to yellowlegs in non-breeding plumage. Note the white face, plain gray back, and very thin bill. Often seen swimming or "spinning" in the water. On land Wilson's Phalaropes forage very actively.

Franklin's Gull:
A very rare visitor usually seen at open lakes or plowed fields. They have been seen almost exclusively at FermiLab. aAlso seen on two occasions at Hidden Lake.

Bonaparte's Gull:
Usually seen at open lakes. FermiLab and Hidden Lake are good locations for this species.

Ring-Billed Gull:
A fairly common gull, year round. Often seen at open lakes, landfills, and parking lots. Seen in large numbers at FermiLab and along the Fox River in Kane County.

Herring Gull:
Usually seen at open lakes, landfills, and parking lots during the winter and through part of spring and fall migration. Rare during the summer months. Most often seen in the summer at FermiLab or Value City Marsh.

Thayer's Gull:
Usually seen at open lakes. Usually seen at Lake Law or other ponds at FermiLab. Also seen at McKee Marsh in 2001. Also seen at Settler's Hill and along the Fox River in Kane County.

Iceland Gull:
Usually seen at open lakes or landfills. Seen at FermiLab in March of 2001 and historically at Mallard Lake landfill. Also seen at Settler's Hill in Kane County and along the Fox River.

Lesser Black-Backed Gull:
Usually seen at open lakes. Last seen near Lake Law at FermiLab. Also seen at Settler's Hill in Kane County and along the Fox River.

Glaucous Gull:
Usually seen at open lakes. Last seen at FermiLab. Also seen at Settler's Hill in Kane County and along the Fox River.

Caspian Tern:
Usually seen at lakes with open shorelines. The best spots include Hidden Lake and Value City Marsh. They have also been seen at FermiLab, McKee Marsh, and other locations.

Common Tern:
Usually seen at lakes with open shorelines. Seen at FermiLab in May 1993, August 1994, and October of 2000.

Forster's Tern:
Usually seen at lakes with open shorelines. Seen on rare occasion at Value City Marsh or FermiLab in late July or early August.

Black Tern:
Usually seen at quality marshes and also marshy lakes. Lake Law at FermiLab has been a good spot as well as Pratt's Wayne, Value City Marsh and Pillsbury Pond.

Rock Pigeon:
Common year-round resident in developed areas. Often seen perched on barn silos and buildings with flat roofs and ledges.

Mourning Dove:
Common year-round in many locations. Usually seen perched on electrical wires or in trees. Seen in very large numbers at FermiLab during fall migration. The Mourning Dove is a dimorphic species in which part of the population migrates and the other does not. Many Mourning Doves are now year-round residents in Illinois, but many birds also still migrate.

Monk Parakeet (introduced):
Resident year-round in small communities. Currently present along high tension wires in Addison at at the corner of Addison Rd. and Armitage Rd. Look for their giant communal nests made of bundled twigs and sticks. Birds may venture far away during the day and are most often seen at the nests in the early morning and late evening. They are also quite noisy and can often be heard from some distance.

Great Horned Owl:
Usually heard calling after dusk, but also seen on occasion during the day. Usually seen in pine forests or dense wooded areas. The best location to see nesting birds is the Morton Arboretum.

Barred Owl:
The only recent sightings of this species have been at Waterfall Glen where they can occasionally be seen in the fall through late spring.

Long-Eared Owl:
Usually seen in pine trees, often near open fields. Long-Eared Owls are most often seen at FermiLab and Springbrook Prairie and at times are also seen at Pratt's Wayne, Greene Valley, West Branch, and the Morton Arboretum. Long-Eared Owls can be easily disturbed by people so their exact locations are no longer posted on the hotline. Birds should always be viewed from a distance. Also, don't make any sudden movements. You may be excited to find one, but remember to lift your binoculars up very slowly (your binoculars look like two giant glowing eyes). If you flush one/them, leave the area immediately (they will not return for some time anyway). It is best to look for them late in the winter after they have already established their roosts.

Short-Eared Owl:
Usually seen in very large open fields. They are usually seen around dusk when they come out to hunt. The best places to go are Springbrook Prairie, Pratt's Wayne Woods, and FermiLab. Watch the fields from a distant hill or open area.

Northern Saw-Whet Owl:
Usually seen in dwarf conifers and dense pine trees (but not exclusive to coniferous trees). Hemlock Hill and Frost Hill in the Morton Arboretum are the only reliable locations. Birds should always be viewed from a distance, if possible. Don't make any loud noises or quick movements that may awaking or scare the bird.

Common Nighthawk:
Easily seen at many locations in the fall. Timing is more important than location for this species which migrates through in large numbers in early to mid fall. Any open field or marsh can attract these birds at times.

Whip-poor-will:
Usually only heard or found accidentally when walking through woods. They can occasionally be found during the spring in dense wood areas. Most recent sights are from Greene Valley, The Morton Arboretum, and Waterfall Glen.

Chimney Swift:
Fairly common in migration and common through the summer. Usually seen foraging for bugs in the air over downtown areas or above lakes and marshes. In our area they roost and nest almost exclusively in chimneys. Watch a large group at dusk and you may see them all funnel into a large chimney. An excellent location is the bank at the corner of Route 31 and Route 64 in Kane County.

Ruby-Throated Hummingbird:
Usually seen perched on dead snags or hovering at flowers. They are often seen near Honeysuckle bushes during migration and often nest in pine trees in the summer. Good places to look are at the back loop of Hidden Lake, the Morton Arboretum, Waterfall Glen, and Elsen's Hill.

Belted Kingfisher:
Usually seen near small lakes or streams surrounded by mature trees. They are regularly found at the Morton Arboretum, Hidden Lake, and McDowell Grove. They are frequently seen near bodies of water that remain unfrozen all year. Kingfishers nest in hollows excavated in stream banks and occasionally even dirt piles or bark chip piles (occasionally even a considerable distance from water).

Red-Headed Woodpecker:
Usually found in areas with many mature and dead trees, especially oak trees. Herrick Lake Marsh at Herrick Lake, Waterfall Glen, and Maple Grove are good places to find them. The Morton Arboretum and other places have had them in select areas.

Red-Bellied Woodpecker:
Usually found in areas with mature and dead trees, especially oak trees. The Morton Arboretum and Waterfall Glen are two of the best locations.

Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker:
Seen during spring and fall migration in open woods often consisting of pine trees or maple trees as well as oak trees. Rare wintering birds are usually found in dense oak forests.

Downy Woodpecker:
Resident found in many areas with mature and dead trees. The Morton Arboretum and Waterfall Glen are two of the best locations.

Hairy Woodpecker:
Most are Year-Round residents, usually found in areas with mature and dead trees, especially oak trees. The Morton Arboretum and Waterfall Glen are two good locations.

Northern Flicker:
Common most of the year and uncommon in the winter. Usually found in open forests and savannas near fields and marshes. Often seen in large numbers in freshly burned fields. Good locations include the Morton Arboretum, Greene Valley, and Springbrook Prairie.

Olive-Sided Flycatcher:
Seen during spring and fall migration. Usually seen along forest edges, and almost always perched on tall dead branches. The best locations include Maple Grove, Elsen's Hill, the Morton Arboretum, and Springbrook Prairie.

Eastern Wood-Pewee:
Seen in the spring through fall in many areas with mature trees. Often seen along forest edges or in forests with little understory. The Morton Arboretum is a good location to get close-up views. Note song, often alternating phrases of "pee-a-wee" and "WEee-yew". In fall (and occasionally spring) migrating birds often sing a shorter "pa-wee" phrase.

Yellow-Bellied Flycatcher:
Usually seen low in dense forests. The best places to look are at the Morton Arboretum, Elsen's Hill, Waterfall Glen, McKee Marsh, and McDowell Grove. Note the dark black wings, yellow belly, deep green back and complete eye-ring. Note "cheebunk" song.

Acadian Flycatcher:
Usually seen in treetops in large forests, often near water during spring migration and to a lesser extent during fall migration. Rare during summer months. The best places to look are the Morton Arboretum, Elsen's Hill, Waterfall Glen, and McDowell Grove. Note the deep green back, plain white breast and belly, and thin almost complete eye-ring. Note distinctive "spet a KEET" song.

Alder Flycatcher:
Usually found in wet grassy or marshy locations, usually in somewhat open areas. Seen during spring and fall migration. Rarely sighted in the summer. FermiLab is the best spot to see this species. Other good locations include Herrick Lake and McDowell Grove. Probably the most difficult empid. to identify unless it is heard. Virtually identical to Willow Flycatcher and once considered the same species. Bill is thinner and throat averages slightly more gray. White markings on tertials and secondaries averages stronger and crisper. Should be ID'd only by "reeeBEEa" song.

Willow Flycatcher:
Usually found in open areas in the spring through fall. FermiLab, Pratt's Wayne Woods and Springbrook Prairie are good places to look. Virtually identical to Alder Flycatcher (see above). Note "FITZbeyew" song.

Great Crested Flycatcher:
Usually found in mature woods with some dead trees. The best places to see them include the Morton Arboretum and Waterfall Glen.

Loggerhead Shrike:
Increasingly rare. Seen in open grassy areas with scattered shrubs such as FermiLab or Springbrook Prairie.

Northern Shrike:
Seen regularly in the winter by the parking lot at Greene Valley. Also seen at FermiLab and Springbrook Prairie. Seen in open fields with bushes and shrubs.

White-Eyed Vireo:
Usually found in dense shrublands. Good breeding locations to see them include Herrick Lake, Greene Valley, and Waterfall Glen. Can be seen at many other locations during migration.

Bell's Vireo:
Usually seen in open shrubby fields and along hedgerows. Usually only present during the summer in a few select locations. The best breeding location is at Pratt's Wayne Woods along the trail south of the dog training field parking lot that parallels the railroad tracks. Also seen in 2004 at Herrick Lake near trail marker 8. They have also been seen during some years at Springbrook Prairie and FermiLab. Often only heard during the summer months. Best viewed in July after immature birds come out of the nest.

Warbling Vireo:
Fairly common during the spring through fall. Usually found in hedgerows near open fields or along woodland edges. Good locations to get close-up looks include Hidden Lake, Morton Arboretum, Greene Valley, and Herrick Lake.

Philadelphia Vireo:
Uncommon during spring and fall migration. Usually found in open woodlands and dense shrublands during spring and in fruiting bushes during fall. Good locations to see them include the Morton Arboretum, Elsen's Hill, McKee Marsh, and Lincoln Marsh.

Red-Eyed Vireo:
Common during the spring through fall in mature woodlands. Good locations to see them include the Morton Arboretum and Waterfall Glen.

Blue Jay:
Common during the spring through fall and uncommon during winter. The best location to see them in large numbers is at Elsen's Hill.

American Crow:
Fairly common year-round in a variety of locations. Often seen in abundance at landfills like Settler's Hill in Kane County.

Purple Martin:
Usually found along lake or river edges, often in fields or open areas. FermiLab and Pratt's Wayne Woods are the best spots in DuPage. They can also be found reliably along the Fox River in Kane County in select locations where Purple Martin houses are well maintained. The Batavia River walk is an excellent location to see them up close.

Tree Swallow:
Usually seen near marshes. You can get the best views of them during cold mornings in the early spring and late fall at McKee Marsh, Springbrook Prairie, or Hidden Lake.

Northern Rough-Winged Swallow:
Usually found near marshes and streams. Good locations to view them include Springbrook Prairie, McKee Marsh, or by the bridge over the creek west of the bluff road entrance at Waterfall Glen.

Bank Swallow:
Usually found near marshes, often among Tree Swallows. Present in largest numbers during early fall. You can get the best views of them at Hidden Lake, but they can be found in many other marshy areas including Springbrook Prairie, Pratt's Wayne Woods, and FermiLab. They are seen more frequently along the Fox River in Kane County.

Cliff Swallow:
Usually found near lakes or marshes. Pratt's Wayne Woods has been the best location in the past along with FermiLab. They are also seen along the Fox River in Kane County.

Black-Capped Chickadees:
Seen in a variety of forested habitats. Usually seen in the largest numbers during the winter in pine forests at the Morton Arboretum and Waterfall Glen.

Tufted Titmouse:
Usually seen in dense mature forests. Maple Grove is a very reliable spot for this species. There is also a small population at Elsen's Hill. Single sightings have also been reported at other areas including the Morton Arboretum, Waterfall Glen, and Greene Valley.

Red-Breasted Nuthatch:
Usually found in pine forests or mature oak forests. The Morton Arboretum has been the most reliable location and has had one or two reports of breeding birds in the past. Elsen's Hill has also had early summer birds on occasion.

White-Breasted Nuthatch:
Usually seen in mature oak forests with aged and dead trees. Good locations include the Morton Arboretum and Maple Grove.

Brown Creeper:
Usually seen in mature forests during spring and fall migration. Rare during the winter and summer months. Good locations include Waterfall Glen, Morton Arboretum, and McDowell Grove.

Carolina Wren:
Usually seen in forests with dense understory, but can be found in a wide range of habitats. Often seen near water during migration. Recent populations have been seen at Waterfall Glen, Warrenville Grove, and Maple Grove.

House Wren:
Common during late spring through early fall. Usually seen in mature oak forests. Good locations include at Waterfall Glen, Morton Arboretum, and Elsen's Hill.

Winter Wren:
Usually found hiding under fallen trees and branches, often near streams. Greene Valley and Maple Grove are probably the two best locations. McKee Marsh and The Morton Arboretum also get decent numbers. Hiking along small paths or off-trail is usually the best way to find one. The stream by P-23 at the Morton Arboretum has been a very reliable spot in recent years.

Golden-Crowned Kinglet:
Usually found in open bushy areas near streams and rivers in spring. Also found on edges of pine forests. The area near the dam and Hemlock Hill at the Morton Arboretum is an excellent location and Golden-Crowned Kinglets have even summered here in the past. Large numbers are also often found at McDowell Grove along the trail that runs along the north side of the river.

Ruby-Crowned Kinglet:
Usually found near streams and rivers in spring. The area near the dam and Hemlock Hill at the Morton Arboretum is an excellent location. Large numbers are also often found at McDowell Grove along the trail that runs along the north side of the river. Usually arrive just as most Golden-Crowned Kinglets begin to leave.

Blue-Gray Gnatcatchers:
Most frequently found in shruby areas, often near marshes and other bodies of waters, but can be found in many various habitats. McKee Marsh and Blackwell have had the largest numbers of this species in the past few years.

Eastern Bluebirds:
Usually found in open meadows and mowed grassy areas. Frequently found at the Morton Arboretum, Lyman Woods, Herrick Lake, and other areas with bluebird houses.

Gray-Cheeked Thrush:
Usually found in forests with moderate to dense understory Most common at the Morton Arboretum and Elsen's Hill.

American Robin:
Abundant during most of the year in a variety of woodlands. Best viewed in large numbers along rivers and streams during migration at the Morton Arboretum, Elsen's Hill, and Hidden Lake.

European Starling:
Abundant year-round in many locations. Often seen in open fields, nesting in dead trees, and even along roadsides.

Gray Catbird:
Usually seen in bushy areas along streams and near forest edges. The best location to see them up close is at the Morton Arboretum.

Cedar Waxwing:
Uncommon to fairly common most of the year. Seen in shrublands in spring and in shrublands with fruiting bushes in the fall. During the winter, usually seen in fruiting conifer trees. Good locations during migration include Elsen's Hill and Lincoln Marsh. In the winter the best location is at the Morton Arboretum in the yew collections south of P-2.

Blue-Winged Warbler:
Most easily sighted in scrub/bushy habitat at Elsen's Hill or on occasion at Herrick Lake.

Golden-Winged Warbler:
Most easily sighted in scrub/bushy habitat at Elsen's Hill or at Waterfall Glen.

Tennessee Warbler:
Common during the spring and fall at many locations. Often heard high in the trees in the late spring. Best viewed at the Morton Arboretum, Elsen's Hill, Blackwell, or Waterfall Glen.

Orange-Crowned Warbler:
Usually found in open forests and fields. They are reliably found, especially in the late fall, at McKee Marsh, Lincoln Marsh, and Springbrook Prairie. In the spring the west side of the Morton Arboretum is also a good location.

Nashville Warbler:
Usually found in open forests and shrublands. Fairly common at most locations with this type of habitat including Elsen's Hill, Blackwell, and the Morton Arboretum.

Northern Parula:
Most often seen in mature forests. The Morton Arboretum and Elsen's Hill have had the best numbers in the past.

Chestnut-Sided Warbler:
Usually found in forests and shrublands. Fairly common at most locations with this type of habitat including Elsen's Hill, Lincoln Marsh, and the Morton Arboretum.

Magnolia Warbler:
Usually found in forests and shrublands. Fairly common at most locations with this type of habitat including Elsen's Hill, Lincoln Marsh, and the Morton Arboretum.

Black-Throated Blue Warbler:
Rare during spring and fall migration. Usually seen in very dense forests, frequently near water. Maple Grove is an excellent spot for this species as is Elsen's Hill. Reports also come regularly from the Morton Arboretum.

Yellow-Rumped Warbler:
Abundant during spring and fall migration at almost any location. Wintering birds can often be seen in the conifers near P-2 at the Morton Arboretum.

Black-Throated Green Warbler:
Usually seen in dense forests. Fairly common during migration at many locations. Elsen's Hill is a good location to get close-up views.

Blackburnian Warbler:
Usually seen in open oak forests. Fairly common in spring and fall migration. Seen in good numbers in open oak savannas and forests at the Morton Arboretum and Elsen's Hill.

Yellow-Throated Warbler:
Rare during spring migration and during the summer at the Arb. Usually seen in large trees near rivers and streams, frequently seen in sycamore trees. One of the first warblers to arrive in the spring. Often seen in the spring at McDowell Grove. Multiple birds have also been seen through the summer at P-23 at the Morton Arboretum since the summer of 2000 and predictably arrive around April 20th each spring.

Pine Warbler:
Almost always seen in or near pine trees, but also in mature oak trees. They usually arrive earlier than most warblers. The best location, by far, has been at Pine Hill near P-23 at the Morton Arboretum where a dozen birds can often be seen close-up. They are also present at many other scattered locations at the Arb. The pines toward the north end of McDowell Grove and the pines at Elsen's Hill, and along the river at Waterfall Glen are other good locations.

Prairie Warbler:
Very rare during spring migration. Almost always seen in fairly open areas with moderate bushes and some taller trees. Elsen's Hill has had multiple reports of this species in the spring. One was also seen at Herrick Lake throughout the summer in 2003 and one was seen at West Chicago Prairie in the spring of 2004.

Palm Warbler:
Most often seen in open areas, often near marsh edges or grassy areas. They can be found at many locations, but are best viewed at Lyman Woods or Lincoln Marsh.

Bay-Breasted Warbler:
Usually found in open oak forests. The best locations to view them include Maple Grove, Elsen's Hill, and in the fall at Lincoln Marsh.

Cerulean Warbler:
Rare in the spring and fall. Usually found in dense wooded areas, especially in mature oak trees. The woods at Waterfall Glen and the woods along the road on the west side of the Morton Arboretum are the best locations. Also seen at Blackwell, Maple Grove, Elsen's Hill, and other locations.

Black-and-White Warbler:
Found in forests and shrublands. Often seen scaling the sides of aged and dead trees. Common in small numbers in the spring and fall. Good locations to see them include Elsen's Hill, Waterfall Glen, the Morton Arboretum, and Lincoln Marsh.

American Redstart:
Found in many habitats, often in the understory of open forests. Lincoln Marsh has had excellent numbers of this species for many years. Also seen in good numbers during the summer at Herrick Lake.

Worm-Eating Warbler:
Very rare during spring migration. Usually found in forests with dense understory. The few reported sightings in recent years are usually from Maple Grove, Waterfall Glen, and Elsen's Hill.

Ovenbird:
Usually seen on the ground in dense forests with many fallen trees and logs. Maple Grove is a reliable spot for this species. Seen in many dense forested locations during the spring. They also summer regularly along the main trail at Herrick Lake.

Louisiana Waterthrush:
Rare during spring migration. Almost always seen near water. The best spots in the past have been at the Morton Arboretum, Waterfall Glen, and Elsen's Hill.

Kentucky Warbler:
Rare during spring migration. Usually found on the ground in dense understory. Good locations include Waterfall Glen, P-21 at the Morton Arboretum, Elsen's Hill. and areas at Maple Grove near the picnic shelter. One fall record exists for Elsen's Hill and one for FermiLab.

Connecticut Warbler:
Uncommon to rare during spring and fall migration. Usually found on the ground in dense understory. They are usually seen almost every year in mid-May at Elsen's Hill and The Morton Arboretum.

Mourning Warbler:
Uncommon during spring and fall migration. Often seen in moderate to dense understory often near forest edges. They are often seen at Elsen's Hill, Waterfall Glen, and other similar locations.

Hooded Warbler:
Rare during the spring and fall and very rare during the summer. Usually seen in dense forests. The best summering location is Herrick Lake. They have been seen on multiple occasions at Elsen's Hill, the Morton Arboretum, and West DuPage Woods in recent years.

Yellow-Breasted Chat:
Usually seen in open fields and grasslands with some dense shrubs. Herrick Lake, Greene Valley, and West Chicago Prairie have had good numbers of this species in recent years.

Summer Tanager:
Very rare during spring migration and extremely rare through mid summer. Usually found in dense mature forests. The Morton Arboretum has been very good in recent years. Elsen's Hill and Herrick Lake have also had many reports in the past few years.

Scarlet Tanager:
Usually found in dense mature forests. Elsen's Hill and the Morton Arboretum are the best locations to see them in large numbers.

Eastern Towhee:
Uncommon to fairly common except duing the late fall and winter. Often seen in open shrublands and savannas with moderate understory. Good locations to see them include Herrick Lake, Springbrook Prairie, and Elsen's Hill.

American Tree Sparrow:
Often found in open fields near hedgerows. Fairly common to common during the fall and winter at many preserves including Pratt's Wayne, FermiLab, and Springbrook Prairie.

Chipping Sparrow:
Usually seen in pine trees near open fields. Often nest in low branches of pine trees during the summer. Seen in large numbers at The Morton Arboretum.

Clay-Colored Sparrow:
A rarely seen migrant but recently seen at Greene Valley, The Morton Arboretum, and Springbrook Prairie. They were confirmed breeding at Springbrook Prairie in 2003 and again in 2004.

Field Sparrow:
Fairly common in the late spring through early fall and rare the rest of the year. Found in open fields with mixed vegetation and/or some bushes. Present at many preserves in the summer. Easiest to view in the summer at Herrick Lake and Morton Arboretum, and during migration at Elsen's Hill.

Henslow's Sparrow:
Usually seen in open fields with short scrub bushes and weeds. Most often heard calling in evening hours. FermiLab and Pratt's Wayne Woods are reliable locations. Springbrook Prairie and Tri-County also have decent numbers.

Le Conte's Sparrow:
Very rare during spring and fall migration. Usually seen in open fields with short grass and scrub bushes, often near water. The only recent sightings have been at FermiLab. Springbrook Prairie also has good habitat for this species.

Nelson's Sharp-Tailed Sparrow:
Usually seen along marsh edges, sometimes near open fields. Springbrook Prairie has long been one of the best locations. FermiLab also has occasional sightings as does McKee Marsh and Blackwell.

Fox Sparrow:
Most often seen in fields with lots of bushes, but can also be found in other brushy habitat. FermiLab is usually the best location to see them up close. Herrick Lake and Greene Valley also often get good numbers. During winter Hidden Lake and the Morton Arboretum have also been good locations.

Lincoln's Sparrow:
Usually found in very open fields during migration. The largest numbers are usually seen at FermiLab in the field south-east of Lake Law. Blackwell and many other areas with open fields also get this species yearly.

Swamp Sparrow:
Usually found along marsh edges. Large numbers can be found at Pratt's Wayne Woods, Lincoln Marsh, Herrick Lake, and many other forest preserves. They winter in large numbers at