Area // Rockton, Roscoe and South Beloit

Sand Bluff Bird Observatory

10602 Haas Rd.
Rockton, IL 61072
(815) 629-2671
Visit Website // E-mail

Overview

Social

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:

What's Nearby