Wildlife Viewing

The Forest Preserve works to protect wildlife, especially threatened or endangered species, in its preserves. You can enjoy the viewing of this wildlife at a variety of locations throughout Will County.

Lake Renwick Preserve - Heron Rookery Nature Preserve in Plainfield is one of the premier rookeries in northern Illinois. During the breeding season, hundreds of pairs of nesting cormorants, great egrets, great blue herons, and cattle egrets raise their young. The preserve is closed annually from March through August 15 but public bird viewing programs are offered during this time. Check the Event Calendar for upcoming programs.

A different view into Lake Renwick, open year-round, is available at Copley Nature Park in Plainfield. This small preserve offers parking and a short walk to a gazebo where a viewing scope is available.

Wildlife observation areas are also available at many other preserves. Rock Run Greenway - I&M Canal Access in Joliet features an observation deck beside a pond where beaver and foraging birds can be seen. McKinley Woods in Channahon offers a deck overlooking the Des Plaines River. Whalon Lake in Naperville provides a deck overlooking a wetland restoration area.

For more information about the wildlife and natural features of a preserve, select it from the list below.

Photograph Courtesy of Joe Wittenkeller