Exploring the world of the Largest Birds in Illinois opens doors to an extraordinary adventure. These magnificent birds grace the skies and lands of Illinois, each telling their unique story through their captivating presence and behaviors.
Table of Contents
20 Gorgeous Large Birds In Illinois:
1. Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator)
The Trumpeter Swan is like a royal bird of Illinois’ waters. With huge white wings and a long neck, it swims gracefully. Kids love to watch them glide on the water. They make a trumpet-like sound, which is how they got their name.
- Length: 57.1-70.9 inches (145-180 cm)
- Weight: 246.4 – 480 oz(7-13.6 kg)
- Wingspan: 72-102 inches (183-259 cm)
2. Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo):
Wild Turkeys are big, strong birds that you can find wandering in the forests of Illinois. They have big tails that spread out like a fan. These birds are smart and quick, making them exciting for us to spot in nature.
- Length: 35.8-46.1 in (91-117 cm)
- Weight: 88 – 388.8 oz (2.5-11 kg)
- Wingspan: 49.2-61 in (125-155 cm)
3. Canada Goose (Branta canadensis):
The Canada Goose is a common bird in Illinois. You might see them in parks, ponds, or even walking around in neighborhoods! They are social birds, often seen in groups, and they are known for their loud honking sounds.
- Length: 30-43 in (75-110 cm)
- Weight: 88 -224 oz (2.5-6.35 kg) for males, and 84.8 -193.6 oz (2.4-5.5 kg) for females
- Wingspan: 50-73 in (127-185 cm)
4. Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos):
Golden Eagles are amazing hunters of the sky. They have sharp eyes to spot small animals from high above. With strong, powerful wings, they swoop down to catch their prey, showing their incredible speed and strength.
- Length: 27.6-33.1 in (70-84 cm)
- Weight: 99.2 – 236.8 oz (2.8-6.7 kg)
- Wingspan: 72.8-88.6 in (185-225 cm)
5. American White Pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos):
American White Pelicans are large birds that look stunning when they fly. They have big, wide wings that allow them to soar in the sky gracefully. They love fishing and use their large beaks to scoop up water and catch fish.
- Length: 50-65 in (127-165 cm)
- Weight: 158.7-317.5 oz (4,500-9,000 g)
- Wingspan: 96.1-114.2 in (244-290 cm)
6. Sandhill Crane (Antigone canadensis):
Sandhill Cranes are like the dancers of our skies! They have long, skinny legs that they use to do a special dance during certain seasons. These cranes travel, or migrate, long distances and visit many places, including Illinois. When you see them, it feels like watching a graceful dance performance in nature’s theater.
- Length: 37 – 47 in (94 -119 cm)
- Weight: 119.9 -172.8 oz (2.7 – 6.7 kg)
- Wingspan: 5 ft 3 in – 6 ft 11 in (160 -212 cm )
7. Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus):
Snowy Owls are magical winter visitors. Covered in white feathers, they blend in with the snow, looking like friendly ghosts. These owls come to Illinois during cold times, bringing a touch of winter mystery with their bright yellow eyes and silent wings.
- Length: 20.5 -27.9 in (52 -71 cm)
- Weight: 56.4 oz -104.1 oz (1.6 -2.95 kg)
- Wingspan: 49.6 – 57.1 in (126 -145 cm)
8. Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus):
Great Horned Owls are the superheroes of the night. With big, wise eyes, they watch over the dark skies, hunting for food. Their strong wings allow them to fly quietly, making them awesome nighttime hunters. When the world sleeps, these owls keep their eyes wide open, taking care of the night.
- Length: 17.99 – 25 in (45.7- 63.5 cm)
- Weight: 32 – 88 oz (0.9 -2.5 kg)
- Wingspan: 36 – 60 in(91 -152 cm)
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9. Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus):
The Bald Eagle is a powerful bird and a symbol of freedom. With wide, strong wings, it soars high in the sky over Illinois. Its sharp eyes look over the lands, rivers, and lakes, watching life below. The Bald Eagle builds big nests in high places, like tall trees or cliffs. This bird is brave, strong, and free, just like the country it represents.
- Length: 27.6 -39.4 in (70 -100 cm)
- Weight: 105.8 – 222.2 oz (2.95 – 6.35 kg)
- Wingspan: 70 -90 in (178 -229 cm)
10. Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus):
Black Vultures do an important job in nature. They find and eat animals that have died, helping to keep our environment clean and healthy. These birds might not be colorful, but they are very useful. They fly around with strong wings, looking for food and helping the circle of life in Illinois. Black Vultures are nature’s cleaners, taking care of leftovers in the wild.
- Length: 23.6 -28 in (60 -71 cm)
- Weight: 56.4 -77.6 oz(1.6 -2.2 kg)
- Wingspan: 53.9 -59.1 in (137 -150 cm)
11. Osprey (Pandion haliaetus):
Ospreys are amazing birds that love to fish. They fly high over water, looking down with sharp eyes to find fish swimming below. When they see a fish, they dive down fast, splashing into the water to grab the fish with strong claws. Ospreys are like the fishing pros of the bird world, and watching them is like seeing a fishing adventure in the sky!
- Length: 20 -26 in (50 -66 cm)
- Weight: 42 – 72 oz (1.2 -2.05 kg)
- Wingspan: 50 – 70.9 in (127 -180 cm)
12. Great Egret (Ardea alba):
Great Egrets are beautiful, tall birds that are experts at fishing. They stand quietly near water, waiting for a fish to come close. Then, they quickly use their long necks and sharp beaks to catch the fish. Great Egrets are calm and patient, making them excellent fishers. They are like statues by the water, waiting for the perfect moment to catch their meal.
- Length: 37 – 41 in(94 -104 cm)
- Weight: 32 – 40 oz (0.9 -1.1 kg)
- Wingspan: 52 – 57 in (131 – 145 cm)
13. Mute Swan (Cygnus olor):
The Mute Swan is a beautiful bird that brings peace and calm to Illinois waters. Gliding gracefully, with its long neck curved and wings gently resting, the Mute Swan looks like it’s posing for a lovely picture. It’s known for being quiet, not making much noise, and adding a touch of elegance wherever it swims.
- Length: 49.2 -63 in (125 -160 cm)
- Weight: 304 – 416 oz (8.62 -11.79 kg)
- Wingspan: 59 – 94 in (150 -239 cm)
14. Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura):
Turkey Vultures are nature’s cleaning crew. Flying high in the sky, they look for leftover meals in the form of animals that didn’t survive, keeping our environment cleaner and more balanced. They have strong wings to glide smoothly, performing an essential role in nature’s cycle.
- Length: 25 -32 in (64 – 81 cm)
- Weight: 70.6 oz (2 kg)
- Wingspan: 67 – 70 in (170 -178 cm )
15. Rough-legged Hawk (Buteo lagopus):
The Rough-legged Hawk is a strong bird that visits Illinois during winter. Armed with warm feathers and sharp eyes, it braves the cold winds, flying high, and looking for meals. It’s like the tough guardian of the winter skies, adapting and surviving in the chilly weather, showing off the strength of nature’s creatures.
- Length: 18.5 -32 in(47 – 81
- Weight: 25.2 -49.4 oz (715 – 1400 gm)
- Wingspan: 48 – 56 in (122 -142 cm)
Read also: 6 Species of Hummingbirds in illinois:Picture,call
16. Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias):
Great Blue Herons are smart and quiet hunters. They stand near the water, moving slowly, and carefully looking for fish. With a quick strike, they catch their food. Their long legs and necks help them hunt in the water, making them special birds in Illinois.
- Length: 38.2 – 54 in (97 -137 cm)
- Weight: 74.1 -88.2 oz (2.1 -2.5 kg)
- Wingspan: 65.8 – 79.1 in (167 – 201 cm)
Rare Visitors: Illinois’ Occasional Feathered Guests:
17. Whooping Crane (Grus americana):
The Whooping Crane is an extraordinary bird that is seldom seen in Illinois. This magnificent bird is large, with a bright white body and a long, stretching neck. It’s a treasure to witness because it’s so rare. Seeing a Whooping Crane is like finding a rare jewel, making the moment truly special.
- Length: 51.18 – 62.99 in (130 -160 cm)
- Weight: 211.6 -275.1 oz(6 -7.8 kg)
- Wingspan: 78.7 – 90.6 in (200 -230 cm)
18. Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis):
The Brown Pelican is another unusual visitor to Illinois. Normally living near the vast, salty oceans, this remarkable bird sometimes takes a trip to our state. With its large, pouch-like beak and grand wings, the Brown Pelican is known for its incredible ability to scoop fish out of the water.
Spotting one in Illinois is a rare and exciting experience, as these coastal wanderers bring a piece of the ocean’s majesty to our local landscapes.
- Length: 39.4 -53.9 in(100 -137 cm)
- Weight: 70.5 -176.4 oz (2 -5 kg
- Wingspan: Almost 78 in(200 cm )
19. Great Black backed Gull (Larus marinus)
The Great Black-backed Gull is not a bird you would see in Illinois every day. This bird is quite large and usually likes places closer to the ocean.
It has a powerful appearance with its black back and bright white body. Seeing this gull in Illinois is surprising but also a wonderful treat for those who love watching birds.
- Length: 71 -79 cm(28 -31 in)
- Weight: 45.9 -70.6 oz (1.3 – 2 kg)
- Wingspan: 57.5 -63 in (146 -160 cm)
20. Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus):
From the cold and icy lands of the Arctic comes a powerful bird known as the Gyrfalcon. This bird is strong and not seen in Illinois very often.
When it does visit, it brings a touch of its arctic home with it, allowing us a glimpse of its incredible survival skills and majestic beauty. Seeing a Gyrfalcon in Illinois is like witnessing a rare spectacle of nature’s wonders.
- Length:19 -24 in (48 -61 cm
- Weight: 46.4 -59.2 oz (1.3 – 1.7 kg)
- Wingspan: 43 – 51 in (110 -130 cm )
FAQs:
Q: Which large birds are native to Illinois?
A: Illinois is home to many large birds like the Bald Eagle, the Great Blue Heron, and Turkey Vulture. These birds have made Illinois their home and are a magnificent sight for the people who live here.
Q: What are the best places to spot these birds in Illinois?
A: You can often see these large birds in natural parks, forests, and near lakes or rivers in Illinois. Places like Starved Rock State Park and the Mississippi River are great spots to see these amazing creatures.
Q3: What role do these birds play in the ecosystem?
Large birds in Illinois play essential roles in the ecosystem, like controlling pest populations and cleaning the environment. They are important for keeping nature in balance and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Q4: Are there any bird-watching groups or events in Illinois?
Yes, there are many bird-watching groups and events in Illinois. These groups organize events to watch, learn, and appreciate the beauty and diversity of the birds in our state.
Q5: What are the largest birds in Illinois?
The Bald Eagle and the Turkey Vulture are some of the largest birds you can find in Illinois. They have wide wingspans and are truly impressive to watch.
Q6: What is the tallest bird in Illinois?
The Great Blue Heron is the tallest bird in Illinois, standing on long legs and having a long neck which makes it look quite tall and elegant.
Q7: What is the largest bird in the Midwest?
The Bald Eagle is one of the largest birds in the Midwest, known for its impressive size and powerful wings.
Q8: What are the big gray birds in Illinois?
The big gray birds you might see in Illinois are likely the Great Blue Herons. They are tall and gray, and they usually stay near water bodies like lakes and rivers.
Conclusion:
In the end, it is very important to conserve and take care of the large birds in Illinois. By doing this, we help nature and make sure these amazing birds are around for many years. We should also learn more about them and appreciate their beauty and what they do for our world. Let’s spread awareness and celebrate the wonderful birds of Illinois!
