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Area // Rockton, Roscoe and South Beloit

Sand Bluff Bird Observatory

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Located within Colored Sands Forest Preserve in Northwest Winnebago Count, Sand Bluff Bird Observatory is one of the largest small-bird banding operations in the country that is open to the public. Sand Bluff was created to study population trends in migrant birds, although we also trap resident species as well. In a typical year 4-6,000 warblers, vireos, orioles, sparrows, thrushes and finches are banded.

The station is operated entirely by volunteers who band, serve as guides for visitors and present educational programs for various groups. Visitors are always welcome to come watch our operation and share in the learning process.

Click this link, checklist, for a downloadable list of birds seen in Winnebago County, available in the General Downloads section of this website.

Attraction
General
  • Admission: Free, donations appreciated
  • Hours: March-May, September-November
    Friday 4:00pm-7:00pm
    Saturday 8:00am-4:00pm
    Sundays 8:00am-10:00am
Attraction Amenities
  • Handicap Accessibility:
  • Parking - Free:
  • Picnic Area:
  • Public Restroom:
Food/Beverage
  • Alcohol Prohibited:
  • Food NOT Available:
Rates & Reservations
  • Admission Free:
Recreation
  • Hiking Trail:
  • Lake or River Access:
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