Master Naturalists to volunteer at Kickapoo Creek Park bird watching station on Saturday in April and May

 

[April 10, 2021] 

During the months of April and 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 8:00 to 11:00 am Saturday, April 10, 17, 24, and May 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29. This year the event will follow COVID-19 safety precautions, including wearing a face covering and socially distancing. The shelter can hold two visitors at a time.

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, participants are encouraged to bring binoculars.

When Master Naturalists 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 can usually spot at least a dozen species in the course of a short visit,” says Moriearty, “and we will be able to answer questions about other birds in the park, such as bluebirds, owls or wild turkeys.”

The station, enclosed on three sides and with benches next to the windows, was constructed a few years ago by Master Naturalists. 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. Kickapoo Creek Park is located at 2000 Jefferson Street, Lincoln.

[Jennifer Fishburn]