Throughout spring, Forest Preserves of Cook County visitors can enjoy exceptional birding opportunities during a variety of birding special events and programs. Birders of all experience levels can celebrate World Migratory Bird Day, go on a bird walk or join a Big Sit. With migration near its peak, May is a great time to #BirdThePreserves.
Bird Walks
Thursdays, May 16, 23 & 30 • 7:30 am
Perkins Woods – Ewing Ave & Grant St, Evanston
Join the Evanston North Shore Bird Club for birding in this small spring migrant hotspot. Bonus: spring wildflowers. Email info@ensbc.org for more info.
Bird Walk
Saturday, May 18 • 7:30 am
Burnham Prairie – 139th St & S Manistee Ave, Burnham
Join Chicago Ornithological Society to look for migrating shorebirds and waders. Wear sturdy footwear or waterproof boots. Beginning birders welcome; extra binoculars available. Email chicagiometti@gmail.com for more info.
World Migratory Bird Day Celebration
Saturday, May 18 • 9-11:30 am
LaBagh Woods – Grove 1, Cicero just north of Foster, Chicago
Watch scientists band and release birds migrating from Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. Enjoy crafts, snacks, bird walks and more.
Bird Walk
Sunday, May 19 • 7:30 am
Jurgensen Woods – 183rd St, east of Cottage Grove Ave, Lansing
Join Chicago Ornithological Society to scour the woodlands and river bottom for migrating warblers, thrushes and raptors. Contact edwarhzan@gmail.com.
Migration Walk
Sunday, May 19 • 8 am
Trailside Museum of Natural History – 738 Thatcher Ave, River Forest
Enjoy a spring walk that will focus on identifying birds and the phenomenon of migration. Led by John Elliott of Chicago Audubon.
Birding Basics
Sunday, May 19 • 1-2:30 pm
River Trail Nature Center – 3120 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook
Residents are beginning to nest and migrants are passing through by the thousands. Learn the basics in bird watching.