Spaces still available for Emiquon and Chautauqua weekend trip, August 25-26

The Illinois River Valley attracts large numbers of migrant shorebirds each fall. When water levels are low and expansive mudflats become exposed, thousands of southbound shorebirds stop to rest and refuel. We will be exploring the river valley with a focus on shorebirds. We'll plan on visiting Chautauqua and Emiquon National Wildlife Refuges in addition to The Nature Conservancy's Emiquon Preserve also known as Thompson Lake. These rich wetland ecosystems provide habitat for an amazing diversity and number of waterbirds. Due to the ephemeral nature of good shorebird habitat, we could be birding other nearby areas as well. Matthew Winks, who knows this area well, will be our trip leader.

There is still room for more participants for the Emiquon and Chautauqua weekend trip on August 25-26. Please contact Jill Niland to register.