Trip Report: Whistler Woods & Kickapoo Forest Preserve 2017 September 24

Belted Kingfisher

A group of birders met at Whistler Woods on another summer-like morning. With winds out of the south and temps in the 90s, the migrants we were hoping for just hadn't arrived yet, but we still had some nice birds.

We had many American Robins flying over, and there seemed to be a huge influx of Northern Flickers. Woodpeckers were plentiful with the expected Downy, Red-bellied, and Hairy Woodpeckers. A couple participants who arrived early got to see a Red-headed Woodpecker as well.

One surprised was a flock of Nashville Warblers foraging in the woods. There were at least 15-20 and we got great looks. Moving towards the river, we heard a Carolina Wren singing loudly, and a Belted Kingfisher put on a show. A Rose-breasted Grosbeak flew across the river flashing its red underwing.

From here we headed to Kickapoo Forest Preserve just down the street. By then it was fairly hot and the activity had died down. A Turkey Vulture and Red-tailed Hawk were soaring overhead. A Red-breasted Nuthatch was calling from one of the yards across the river and a Brown Thrasher flushed from one of the fields and perched for great views.

Thanks to all who came out!

Whistler Woods Checklist here

Kickapoo Checklist here