words by Morgan Harpster

September 20, 2023

Six birders gathered on the gorgeous, mild evening of September 20 at Lincoln Park’s North Pond. As we gathered, we spotted an American Kestrel across the pond, high on a dead tree, surveying the scene. Also across the way was a Double-crested Cormorant sunning his wings, as if auditioning to replace the iconic Bald Eagle on the back of a quarter, and a Belted Kingfisher atop a short pole. Canada Geese and Mallards dotted the pond itself.

The walk began officially as we headed around the length of the pond. Just after passing the restaurant and patio area, we saw a handful of Swainson’s Thrushes hunting dinner in the grass. Even more hunting excitement was to follow! At one viewing area, we got a distant view of a Green Heron hunting their own dinner. Finding a better spot, we were able to observe the bird catching and consuming a fish the size of their head, swallowing it whole and immediately moving to search for more food. A bit further down, a second Green Heron was hunting close to a Great Blue Heron. Both waded slowly through the shallow water, catching and eating minnows and what appeared to be a goldfish. The group paused to watch this display for quite a while, taking photos and videos. The sight was so interesting that passersby not included in the trip stopped to watch with us.

Finally, we left these prehistoric looking birds to their meals and continued. Close to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum area, several Magnolia Warblers hopped around the tree line, a Gray Catbird flew through our view, and a group of Northern Cardinals chipped and chirped around. Coming around the corner near the docks, we spotted three White-throated Sparrows. Throughout the walk, we also saw and heard American Crows, House Sparrows, and American Goldfinches . The walk ended where we started, perhaps mosquito-bitten, but happy for the time spent with birds and nature.

Field Trip Report: North Pond