FG-0043 · Wildlife · 6 species
Identifying Common Birds of Illinois
By Derek Gauger · Updated
Overview
Illinois sits on the Mississippi Flyway, so its prairies, woodlots, and river wetlands host resident songbirds plus a huge seasonal flow of migrants. A remarkable variety of birds turns up within easy reach of any backyard or park.
This guide covers common and iconic Illinois birds — the field marks that identify them, their habitats, and where to look. Pair it with a photo and the app to confirm any bird you spot.
Key species to know
FG-0043.01
Northern Cardinal
Cardinalis cardinalis
Illinois's state bird — the male is brilliant red with a black face and crest, the female warm buff with red highlights. A year-round backyard favorite.
Habitat: Backyards, thickets, and woodland edges statewide.
FG-0043.02
American Robin
Turdus migratorius
A familiar thrush with a gray back and brick-red breast, often seen hopping on lawns hunting worms. Its clear caroling is a classic sound of spring.
Habitat: Lawns, parks, and open woodlands.
FG-0043.03
Red-winged Blackbird
Agelaius phoeniceus
The glossy black male flashes red-and-yellow shoulder patches while singing from cattails; the streaky brown female looks like a large sparrow. Abundant in wetlands.
Habitat: Marshes, ditches, and wet field edges.
FG-0043.04
Blue Jay
Cyanocitta cristata
A bold, crested blue-and-white bird with black necklace markings, loud and intelligent. Caches acorns and mimics hawk calls.
Habitat: Woodlands, parks, and backyards with oaks.
FG-0043.05
American Goldfinch
Spinus tristis
A small finch; the breeding male is bright yellow with black wings and cap, duller olive in winter. Bounds through the air with a canary-like flight call.
Habitat: Weedy fields, gardens, and feeders.
FG-0043.06
Great Blue Heron
Ardea herodias
A tall, blue-gray wading bird that stands motionless in the shallows before spearing fish. The largest heron in North America.
Habitat: Rivers, ponds, marshes, and lake edges.
Through the seasons
- Spring and fall migration bring the greatest variety along the rivers and lakefront.
- Early morning is the most active time for feeding and song.
- Winter feeders concentrate cardinals, chickadees, juncos, and goldfinches for easy viewing.
Questions
- What is the state bird of Illinois?
- The northern cardinal — a year-round resident whose brilliant red males are a familiar sight at feeders and in thickets.
- How can I identify a bird I saw in Illinois?
- Note its size, shape, and field marks, then take a photo and use an app like Spotter to identify the species along with its habitat and range.
From Field Notes
Not sure what you found?
Take a photo with Spotter for the name, field marks, look-alikes and safety notes in seconds.
In this guide
- Species
- 6
- Region
- Illinois