Illinois Birds List: A Guide to Backyard and Beyond

Illinois is home to over 400 species of birds, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The state's diverse landscape, which includes forests, grasslands, and wetlands, supports a wide range of bird populations.

Some of the most common birds in Illinois include the American Robin, Red-winged Blackbird, and Mourning Dove. These birds can often be spotted in backyards and parks, where they feed on seeds, fruits, and insects.

The Illinois bird list is a great resource for learning about the state's avifauna. It provides information on the different species of birds found in Illinois, including their habitats, behaviors, and migration patterns.

If you're new to birdwatching, Illinois is a great place to start. With its mild climate and abundant bird life, you're sure to spot many species in your backyard or on a casual walk through the woods.

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Waterfowl and Seabirds are a thrill to spot in Illinois, with over 20 species calling the state home. The American White Pelican is one of the most iconic birds in this category, known for its impressive 7.5-foot wingspan.

The Wood Duck is another waterfowl favorite, recognized by its vibrant green and yellow feathers. Its distinctive call sounds like a high-pitched whistle, a sound you might hear near Illinois' many wetlands.

The Common Loon is a seabird that can be found on Illinois' lakes and rivers, particularly during the winter months. Its haunting call echoes across the water, a haunting sound that's both beautiful and eerie.

Waterfowl are incredibly adapted to life in and around water, with webbed feet that allow them to swim efficiently and bills that are perfectly suited for foraging for food.

One of the most distinctive features of waterfowl is their ability to shed water from their feathers, thanks to special oils that help to repel water. This is especially important for birds that spend a lot of time in the water, as it helps to keep them dry and warm.

There are many different species of waterfowl, with over 40 recorded in Illinois alone. Some of the most common species include ducks, geese, and swans.

Here are some examples of waterfowl species that can be found in Illinois:

These are just a few examples of the many different species of waterfowl that can be found in Illinois. Each species has its own unique characteristics and adaptations that allow it to thrive in its environment.

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Seabirds are a fascinating group of birds that can be found near water, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Thirty-two species of seabirds have been recorded in Illinois, including gulls, terns, and skimmers. These birds are typically gray or white, often with black markings on the head or wings.

Gulls, such as the Herring gull and the Ring-billed gull, are known for their stout, longish bills and webbed feet. They're also quite common in Illinois, with many species recorded in the state.

Some seabirds, like the Arctic tern, are migratory birds that travel long distances to reach their breeding grounds. The Arctic tern, for example, makes a remarkable journey from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back again each year.

On a similar theme: Bird Identification Illinois

Here are some of the different types of seabirds that can be found in Illinois:

Ibises and spoonbills are a fascinating group of birds, and four species have been recorded in Illinois.

They have long, broad wings and elongated bodies with long necks and legs.

The bill is a distinctive feature, with ibises having a decurved bill and spoonbills having a straight and flattened bill.

Here are the four species found in Illinois:

In Illinois, you can find six species of pheasants and game birds. These birds are terrestrial, meaning they live on the ground, and are generally plump with broad, relatively short wings.

Some of the species you can spot in Illinois include the Wild Turkey, Ruffed Grouse, and Sharp-tailed Grouse. These birds are all part of the Galliformes order and belong to the Phasianidae family.

The Greater Prairie-chicken, Gray Partridge, and Ring-necked Pheasant are also found in Illinois. These birds have been domesticated as a food source for humans in the past.

Here's a list of the six species recorded in Illinois:

Shorebirds and Cranes are fascinating groups of birds that can be found in Illinois. There are 36 species of shorebirds recorded in the state, including sandpipers, curlews, and godwits.

These birds are known for their unique feeding habits, with most species eating small invertebrates picked out of the mud or soil. Different lengths of legs and bills enable multiple species to feed in the same habitat without direct competition for food.

Some common shorebirds found in Illinois include the Upland sandpiper, Whimbrel, and Ruddy turnstone. These birds can be found in a variety of habitats, including coastal areas and wetlands.

Here are some of the shorebirds you might spot in Illinois:

Cranes, on the other hand, are large, long-legged birds that can be found in Illinois. Two species have been recorded in the state: the Sandhill crane and the Whooping crane.

Storks are quite unique birds. They lack the powder down that other wading birds use to clean off fish slime.

One notable species of stork is the Wood stork, which can be found in Illinois.

Storks are also known for their distinctive appearance, with long, stout bills and wide wingspans.

Here are some notable species of storks and other birds that can be found in the same region:

Storks are also characterized by their long legs and necks, making them well-suited for wading in water.

Sandpipers and their allies are a fascinating group of shorebirds that can be found in a variety of habitats, including coastal areas and mudflats. They're incredibly diverse, with over 30 species recorded in Illinois alone.

Many sandpipers have specialized feeding habits, using their unique bill lengths and leg lengths to forage for small invertebrates in the mud or soil. This adaptability allows them to coexist in the same habitats without competing for food.

Some species, like the Upland sandpiper and the Whimbrel, have distinctive calls that can be heard during their migrations. These birds are a treat to spot for bird enthusiasts.

Sandpipers and their allies can be divided into several subgroups based on their physical characteristics and behaviors. Here's a breakdown of some of the species listed in the article:

These are just a few examples of the many fascinating species that make up the sandpiper and allies group. By understanding their unique characteristics and behaviors, we can better appreciate these incredible birds and the important role they play in our ecosystem.

Cranes are large, long-legged, and long-necked birds. They fly with their necks outstretched, not pulled back like herons. Their elaborate and noisy courting displays or "dances" are quite a sight to behold.

Two species of cranes have been recorded in Illinois: the Sandhill crane and the Whooping crane. The Whooping crane, in particular, is a majestic bird with a distinctive call.

If you're interested in spotting cranes in Illinois, you might want to keep an eye out for these two species. Keep in mind that they may not be as common as other birds in the area.

Here are the two crane species found in Illinois:

Birds of prey are a fascinating group of birds, and Illinois is home to many species. These birds have evolved to thrive in various environments, from the skies to the ground.

One of the most recognizable features of birds of prey is their hooked beaks, which are used for tearing flesh from their prey. This is evident in the Accipitridae family, which includes hawks, eagles, kites, and Old World vultures. In Illinois, 15 species of birds of prey have been recorded, including the White-tailed kite, Golden eagle, and Bald eagle.

Some birds of prey, like owls, are nocturnal and have large forward-facing eyes and ears, as well as a hawk-like beak. In Illinois, 10 species of owls have been recorded, including the Great horned owl, Snowy owl, and Barred owl.

Here's a list of some of the birds of prey found in Illinois:

Cuckoos are a unique group of birds that can be found in various parts of the world. They have slender bodies, long tails, and strong legs.

One of the most interesting things about cuckoos is their variable size. They come in all shapes and sizes, making them a fascinating group to study.

In Illinois, there are only three species of cuckoos that have been recorded. These birds are quite diverse and can be identified by their distinct characteristics.

Here are the three species of cuckoos found in Illinois:

The osprey is a fish-eating bird of prey with a very large, powerful hooked beak for tearing flesh from its prey.

This beak is a key feature that sets the osprey apart from other birds of prey. Its strong legs and powerful talons also make it well-suited for catching and holding onto fish.

Ospreys have keen eyesight, which helps them spot their prey in the water. They can dive from great heights, using their agility and speed to catch their prey with ease.

Here are the key characteristics of the osprey species:

Birds of prey and kites are a fascinating group of birds. They're known for their sharp talons and hooked beaks, perfect for tearing flesh from their prey.

These birds have keen eyesight, which helps them spot their next meal from far away. In fact, some birds of prey have eyesight that's up to 4-8 times stronger than humans.

There are several species of birds of prey and kites found in Illinois. Here are some examples:

Some birds of prey and kites are specialized to eat specific types of prey. For example, the osprey is a fish-eating bird of prey, with a very large, powerful hooked beak perfect for tearing flesh from fish.

These birds are found in various habitats, from forests to grasslands. They're an important part of the ecosystem, helping to keep populations of small mammals and birds under control.

Woodpeckers are a delight to have in your backyard, and Illinois is home to a diverse range of species. They're known for their distinctive drumming on trees, which can be a sure sign that they're around.

Some woodpeckers are more common than others in Illinois. The Downy Woodpecker, for example, is spotted all year in the state, with numbers increasing during winter. They're small birds that are often mixed in with other birds at backyard feeders.

Downy Woodpeckers have a distinctive black and white coloring with a red patch at the back of their heads. They're similar in appearance to the Hairy Woodpecker but are smaller in size. You can attract Downy Woodpeckers to your backyard with suet, black oil sunflower seeds, millet, and peanuts on platform feeders.

The Red-bellied Woodpecker is another common species in Illinois, recorded in 27% of summer checklists and 29% of winter checklists. They're smaller than the Red-headed Woodpecker and have a pale red belly that's hard to spot. You can find them in eastern US states and they don't migrate.

Here's a list of some of the woodpeckers you can find in Illinois:

These birds are a joy to have in your backyard, and with the right food and habitat, you can attract them and enjoy their company. They're also a great sign that your backyard is a healthy and thriving ecosystem.

Flycatchers and Thrushes are two fascinating groups of birds that can be found in Illinois. The Tyrant flycatchers, for instance, are Passerine birds that occur throughout North and South America, and are known for their robust build and strong bills.

In Illinois, 21 species and a species pair of Tyrant flycatchers have been recorded. Some of the most common species include the Small-billed elaenia, Ash-throated flycatcher, and Great crested flycatcher.

The thrushes, on the other hand, are a group of passerine birds that occur mainly in the Old World, but can also be found in Illinois. They are plump, soft-plumaged birds that feed on the ground and have attractive songs. Ten species of thrushes have been recorded in Illinois, including the Eastern bluebird, Veery, and Gray-cheeked thrush.

Here's a list of some of the most common flycatchers and thrushes found in Illinois:

Gnatcatchers are mainly soft bluish gray in color and have the typical insectivore's long sharp bill.

They resemble Old World warblers in their structure and habits, moving restlessly through the foliage seeking insects.

Gnatcatchers often have distinctive black head patterns, especially in males, and long, regularly cocked, black-and-white tails.

One species of gnatcatcher has been recorded in Illinois.

Related reading: Black Birds

Tyrant flycatchers are a group of birds that occur throughout North and South America. They are Passerine birds that resemble the Old World flycatchers but are more robust and have stronger bills.

Most tyrant flycatchers are insectivorous, which means they primarily feed on insects. In fact, twenty-one species and a species pair have been recorded in Illinois.

Tyrant flycatchers don't have the same level of vocal sophistication as songbirds. Most are rather plain in appearance, lacking the bright colors and patterns found in some other bird species.

Some common species of tyrant flycatchers include the Small-billed elaenia, the Ash-throated flycatcher, and the Great crested flycatcher.

Here's a list of some of the species found in Illinois:

Thrushes are a group of passerine birds that occur mainly in the Old World. They're plump, soft-plumed, and small to medium-sized, often feeding on the ground. Many have attractive songs.

Ten species of thrushes have been recorded in Illinois. These include the Eastern bluebird, Mountain bluebird, and American robin. The American robin is one of the most recognizable thrushes, known for its distinctive red breast.

Some thrushes are insectivores, while others are omnivores. The Veery, for example, feeds on insects and fruits. The Gray-cheeked thrush and Swainson's thrush are also known to feed on insects and berries.

Here's a list of some of the thrush species recorded in Illinois:

New World warblers are a diverse group of small, often colorful birds found only in the Americas. They're typically arboreal, but some species, like the ovenbird and the two waterthrushes, are more terrestrial.

Most New World warblers are insectivores, which means they feed on insects. This is a common trait among the 42 species recorded in Illinois.

Some New World warblers, such as the golden-winged warbler and the blue-winged warbler, are known for their distinctive songs. These songs can be a great way to identify the species in the field.

Here are some common New World warblers found in Illinois:

These birds can be found in a variety of habitats, from woodlands to backyards with bird feeders.

Sparrows and finches are two of the most common bird species found in Illinois. These birds are known for their distinctive songs and varied plumage, making them a delight to spot in backyards and parks.

House Sparrows are an introduced species in Illinois and can be spotted here all year. They are known to live near houses and buildings, and can be quite tame, even eating out of your hand.

House Finches, on the other hand, are introduced species in Illinois and are residents here all year. They are common throughout the state and can be found in parks, farms, forest edges, and backyard feeders.

Song Sparrows are very common throughout most of North America, and their plumage can vary a bit from region to region. They can be found in Illinois all year and will sometimes visit bird feeders and snack on mixed seeds and sunflower seeds.

American Goldfinches can be spotted in Illinois all year, but their numbers increase during the breeding season, from July to October. They are popular birds with the males bright yellow and black coloring in spring, and can be found in weedy fields and overgrown areas foraging for sunflower, thistle, and aster plants.

Here are some key facts about sparrows and finches in Illinois:

In terms of attracting these birds to your backyard, House Finches can be lured with black oil sunflower seeds or nyjer seeds in tube feeders or platform feeders. Song Sparrows can be attracted with mixed seeds and sunflower seeds, while American Goldfinches prefer sunflower seed and nyjer seed.

The Northern Cardinal is a stunning bird species found in Illinois year-round. They're known for their bright red feathers, with males sporting a striking black mask.

Males have a wingspan of 9.8-12.2 inches, while females are slightly smaller. Both sexes have a distinctive "mohawk" and reddish orange beaks.

You can attract Northern Cardinals to your backyard by offering them mixed seed blends and black sunflower seeds. They'll visit most seed feeders, so make sure to have one set up.

Here are some key facts about the Northern Cardinal:

If you're new to bird-watching in Illinois, it's worth noting that the types of birds you'll see can vary greatly depending on the time of year. For example, during the summer months, birds like the American Robin and Red-winged Blackbird are common sightings, while in the winter, birds like the Northern Cardinal and Dark-eyed Junco are more likely to visit your backyard.

In Illinois, the most common backyard birds can be found by checking out the lists from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Project FeederWatch. According to their data, birds like the American Robin, Red-winged Blackbird, and Northern Cardinal are consistently among the most common sightings in the state.

Here's a list of the top backyard birds in Illinois, categorized by season:

Keep in mind that these are just a few examples of the many birds you can spot in Illinois, and the specific types of birds you'll see can vary depending on your location and the time of year.

Pigeons and doves are common visitors to backyards, and with the right food and habitat, you can attract them to your yard.

Eight species of pigeons and doves have been recorded in Illinois, including the Rock pigeon, Band-tailed pigeon, and Mourning dove.

These birds are stout-bodied with short necks and short slender bills, and are often seen perched on telephone wires or foraging for seeds on the ground.

Mourning Doves, in particular, are a common sight in backyards, and can be attracted with millet on the ground or platform feeders.

Here are some species of pigeons and doves you might see in your backyard:

Mourning Doves can be spotted all year in Illinois, but their numbers increase during the breeding season from July to September.

They appear in 38% of summer checklists and 28% of winter checklists for the state.

Nuthatches are a delight to have in your backyard, and they're relatively easy to attract with the right food and habitat. They're small woodland birds with big heads, short tails, and powerful bills and feet.

Three species of nuthatches have been recorded in Illinois: the Red-breasted nuthatch, White-breasted nuthatch, and Brown-headed nuthatch. The White-breasted nuthatch is one of the most common species and is found year-round throughout the state.

White-breasted nuthatches are active little birds that are gray-blue on the back and white on the face and belly. They have a black cap and a chestnut color on the lower belly and under the tail.

Here are some key facts about White-breasted nuthatches:

They live in deciduous forests, woodland edges, parks, and yards with trees or at feeders. They mainly eat insects, including beetles and their larvae, caterpillars, ants, and also spiders.

White-breasted nuthatches also eat seeds and nuts, including acorns, hawthorns, sunflower seeds, and sometimes corn crops. They jam large nuts and acorns into tree bark and then whack them with their bills to open or 'hatch' them to get the seed out.

To attract White-breasted nuthatches to your backyard, try offering sunflower seeds and peanuts on tube feeders or suet feeders.

Related reading: Bird Eat

If you're looking to attract some musical birds to your backyard, you're in luck with the mimids family. These birds are known for their remarkable ability to mimic a wide variety of birds and other sounds heard outdoors.

The mimids family includes thrashers, mockingbirds, tremblers, and the New World catbirds, all of which tend towards dull grays and browns in their appearance. Five species have been recorded in Illinois, including the Gray catbird, Curve-billed thrasher, Brown thrasher, Sage thrasher, and Northern mockingbird.

To attract these birds to your yard, try providing some food sources they like. For example, Northern mockingbirds are known to visit backyard feeders, but they're also attracted to insects and other small invertebrates.

Here are some species of mimids you might spot in Illinois:

These birds are year-round residents in Illinois, so you have a good chance of spotting them in your backyard, especially if you live in an area with some trees or shrubs to provide them with shelter and food.

If you're interested in tracking the birds that visit your backyard, you're in luck because there are free printable backyard birds worksheets available for Illinois.

These worksheets have pictures and space to keep a tally of the types of birds you've seen, making it easy to identify and track the different species that visit your yard.

You can find these worksheets online, and they're perfect for backyard birding enthusiasts who want to keep a record of their sightings.

By using these worksheets, you can keep track of the birds that visit your yard throughout the year, including the most common birds in Illinois such as the American Robin, Red-winged Blackbird, and Northern Cardinal.

Here are some of the most common birds you can expect to see in your Illinois backyard:

These worksheets are a great way to get started with backyard birding, and they're perfect for families, beginners, and experienced birders alike.

The Black-Capped Chickadee is a cute bird with a big round head and tiny body. They have black caps and beaks, white cheeks, and are gray on the back, wings, and tail.

Black-capped Chickadees do not migrate and can be spotted in the northern half of the US and Canada. They are residents of Illinois all year, but they are spotted mainly in the north of the state.

They will happily feed at backyard feeders and investigate everything, including you! You can find them in forests, open woods, parks, and yards with trees or at feeders.

Black-capped Chickadees eat seeds, berries and insects, spiders, and suet. Attract Black-capped Chickadees to your backyard with suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts or peanut butter.

Here are some key facts about Black-capped Chickadees:

They will even feed from your hand and are often one of the first birds to discover new feeders. They will also use nest boxes, especially if you fill them with wood shavings.

Bird watching in Illinois is a treat. The state has plenty of great spots to explore beyond your own backyard.

The Illinois Audubon Society is a great resource for getting involved in birding. They have multiple chapters with meetups, workshops, field trips, and birding tours.

If you're an Illinois resident, you can find popular birding locations on this list. Jesse, a seasoned bird watcher, loves sharing his knowledge and experiences on this website.

Here are some popular birding locations in Illinois:

You can find even more hotspots with Audubon Illinois Important Bird Areas.