Montrose in the early fall is a riot of flowers and mature meadow plants up in the Bird Sanctuary in the upland area and the seeds and juicy caterpillars bring in lots of migrating birds. With summer gone and cold weather just a month away, sparrows, hawks, finches and many other bird species will moving through Chicago and for them, Montrose is an oasis in the city.

Sierra Club is sponsoring a big beach clean-up beginning at 9:00 a.m. Trip participants can keep birding or join the beach sweep.

Celebrate International Coastal Clean-up Day by giving birds a clean beach to rest on during migration!

Directions:
Meet on the east side of the boat house at Montrose Beach at 7:00 a.m.
Parking is free and bike racks are provided at the beach house. It is a 10 – 15 minute walk to Montrose Beach house from the bus stops at Montrose and Marine Drive.

What to bring and wear: Binoculars are essential if you want to watch birds, butterflies and wildlife (there are a few pairs available to borrow); dress for the weather; wear sunscreen, a hat and sturdy boots or shoes; bring insect repellent; and carry water to drink. Bring a spotting scope if you have one on Chicago trips for lake watching.

For more information, please contact Christine Williamson at birdchris@aol.com to RSVP
and to get directions. If you need help on the day of the trip, call Christine’s cell phone at
773/415-5217.