Master Naturalists to man Birdwatching station at Kickapoo Creek Park on Saturdays in May

[May 05, 2018]   During the month of May, the birdwatching station at Kickapoo Creek Park will be manned periodically by experienced birdwatchers to help visitors identify the many birds that visit the nearby feeders. University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist volunteers will be on duty from 9:30 to 11:00 am every Saturday.

Observers are likely to see not only the familiar cardinals, blue jays and chickadees, but also red-winged blackbirds, at least three species of woodpecker, nuthatches, titmice and finches, among others. Colorful orioles or rose breasted grosbeaks also stop by occasionally. Though the feeders are within 20 feet of the station’s large windows, volunteers will also provide extra binoculars on loan for close up views.

When Master Naturalists Mark Tebrugge, Pam Moriearty, Bev Noble, Jim Struebing or Mike Starasta are on duty on Saturday mornings, the station’s new sign will display a special “Birdwatcher on Duty” panel. At other times, species identification is aided by large colored posters on the walls. “I can usually photograph at least a dozen species in the course of a short visit,” says Noble, “and it’s easy to keep track of my sightings, because the station provides checklists of common birds.”

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 shed on the main road, the feeders are regularly stocked by park staff with a wide variety of food offerings.

[Jennifer Fishburn
Horticulture Educator
University of Illinois Extension]