|
University of Illinois Extension
Master Naturalist volunteers to be on hand at Kickapoo Creek Park
birdwatching stations
[April 01, 2025]
During the months of April and
May, the feeders near the birdwatching station at Kickapoo Creek
Park are visited by many species of resident and migrating birds.
During this time the station will be manned periodically by
experienced birdwatchers to help visitors identify these visitors.
University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist volunteers will
be on at the birdwatching station from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon every
Saturday.
Observers are likely to see not only the familiar cardinals, blue
jays and chickadees, but also red-winged blackbirds, nuthatches,
titmice, goldfinches and house finches on the feeders. The feeders
are within 20 feet of the station’s large windows, so binoculars are
optional, though they provide spectacular close-ups. Nature
photographers also like to take advantage of such cooperative
subjects.
When Master Naturalist volunteers Mark Tebrugge or Pam Moriearty are
on duty on Saturday mornings, the station’s sign will display a
special “Birdwatcher on Duty” panel. At other times, species
identification is aided by large colored posters on the walls. “I
especially enjoy the returning rose breasted grosbeaks and Baltimore
orioles,” says Master Naturalist Bev Noble, “And of course the
red-headed, downy and red-bellied woodpeckers are favorites all year
long.”
[to top of second column]
|
The downy woodpecker is only one of more than 20 resident and migrating bird
species that visit feeders at the Kickapoo Creek Park birdwatching station
throughout the year. Photo by Bev Noble.
The station,
enclosed on three sides and with benches next to the windows,
was constructed a few years ago by Master Naturalist volunteers.
It is always accessible and a fun stopping point for all ages.
Located near the park’s office and machine sheds on the main
road, the feeders are regularly stocked by park staff with a
wide variety of food offerings. Kickapoo Creek Park is located
at 2000 Jefferson Street, Lincoln, Illinois.
[Text received from Jennifer Fishburn
Horticulture Educator
Logan-Menard-Sangamon Unit] |
