Northwest Illinois – USA

About

Northwest Illinois and Galena are great destinations for birding. The city of Galena is located in the Driftless Area, a region of unglaciated land home to various bird species. Some common birds found in Galena include the American Goldfinch, American Robin, Blue Jay, Eastern Towhee, House Finch, and more!

The best time to go birding in Northwest Illinois is during the spring and fall migrations when many birds pass through the area. However, there are birds that can be found here year-round. Owen visited this area in Summer 2023 and captured photos of  Baltimore Orioles, Black-capped Chickadees, Eastern Kingbirds, and Grasshopper Sparrows.

Various bird species and beautiful scenery make Galena and Northwest, Illinois popular birding hotspots. 

There are a number of places to go birding in Northwest Illinois, including:

– Casper Bluff Land & Water Reserve

– Mississippi Palisades State Park

– Ayers Sand Prairie State Nature Preserve

– Nachusa Grasslands

These areas offer a variety of habitats for birds, including forests, wetlands, and prairies.

If you’re interested in birding in Galena or Northwest Illinois, there are a number of resources available to help you. The Galena Park District offers a variety of birding programs, including guided walks and workshops. The Illinois Audubon Society also has a chapter in Galena that offers birding events and activities.

© Owen Deutsch

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Birds found here

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  Yellow Warbler

  
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  Turkey Vulture

  
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  Mourning Dove

  
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  Great Egret

  
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  Grasshopper Sparrow