Field Trip Report: Big Marsh Bilingual Walk

Photo by Jake Vinsel

words by Jake Vinsel

March 16, 2024

At the crack of dawn, our adventurous crew of 21 assembled along Stoney Island Avenue. Energized by the sunrise, we kicked off our expedition amidst a symphony of Song Sparrows, Black-capped Chickadees, and Red-winged Blackbirds swirling around us. Herring and Ring-billed Gulls soared overhead, setting the scene for a great journey. Amidst the introductions, Em's keen eyes spotted an adult Bald Eagle, captivating the entire group.

Northern Shrike. Photo by Em De Blas.

Our excitement peaked as we ventured toward the new bridge, navigating the innermost and most rugged trail. Crossing the bridge, we got good looks at three Mute Swans and a few graceful Gadwall landing nearby. The thrill continued as Hannah Wine's sharp eyes caught a glimpse of a hard-to-spot Northern Shrike, a rare treat for our group.

Although our quest for American Woodcock and Wilson Snipe proved fruitless, our spirits remained high as we encountered a flurry of Golden-crowned Kinglets, a stealthy Brown Creeper, and a chorus of woodpeckers, including the lively Downy Woodpeckers and a majestic Flicker. As we explored the "Mars" area, the avian wonders kept coming, from the elusive Fox Sparrow to a Tree Swallow that arrived early.

Brown Creeper. Photo by Em De Blas.

As we bid farewell near the Ford Calumet Environmental Center, our hearts soared one last time at the sight of a majestic flyover by a Red-shouldered Hawk and Red-tailed Hawk. In the end, we saw an impressive 32 species, and it was an exhilarating journey filled with shared sightings and camaraderie.