Pine Hills/LaRue Ecological Area, Shawnee National Forest in Illinois

Pine Hills/LaRue Ecological Area, Shawnee National Forest

Although this nature reserve is only 3,547-acres in size, it manages to cram 14 different types of ecosystems within its borders, which means you can see a unique species of birds that can not be found anywhere else in the state.

Guide Sections

Use Pine Hills/LaRue Ecological Area, Shawnee National Forest's guide sections to understand how this stop fits into the larger park plan.

Birding

Pine Hills/LaRue Ecological Area, Shawnee National Forest Details

Difficulty

Low

Distance

N/A

Estimated time

N/A

Region

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Although this nature reserve is only 3,547-acres in size, it manages to cram 14 different types of ecosystems within its borders, which means you can see a unique species of birds that can not be found anywhere else in the state. The rugged canyon bluffs are home to yellow-billed cuckoos and Acadian flycatchers, while the swampy marshes are teeming with herons and prothonotary warblers. Although more common breeds can be seen throughout the year, the best time to view more rare species is from spring to early fall. This park lies on the migratory path which makes it possible to spot summer tanglers and Kentucky warblers.