You MUST RSVP for this trip; limit 12 people.
Journey to northwest Cook County for a tour of the vast, rolling wetland/grassland complex of Paul Douglas Forest Preserve. This large tract is home to four nesting-bird species on the Illinois-state threatened or endangered species list as well as the suite of rarer prairie-nesting specialists including Henslow’s Sparrow, Bobolinks, Dicksissels and Eastern Meadowlarks. The preserve’s streams and wetlands also provide abundant breeding areas for dragonflies and damsel flies. The visual beauty of the early summer prairie at Paul Douglas (its more charming original name was Wetsfoot) is another great reason to make the trek out to this wonderful place.
Special instructions: Bring plenty of water with you on the trail as temperatures may be high. Wear a hat, sunscreen and bring insect repellent. Wear long pants to deter ticks.
Leader: Christine Williamson
For more information, please contact Christine at birdchris@aol.com. If you need help on the day of the trip, please call Christine’s cell phone 773/415-5217 (DON'T text).
Driving directions:
From I-90 westbound: Exit at Barrington Road northbound/right and turn east/right at the first stoplight on W. Central Rd. Continue east on W. Central past Freeman Rd. The parking lot for Paul Douglas Preserve is on the north/left side of the road. Drive all the way to the north end of the parking lot to meet the group. https://goo.gl/maps/zyhpWr5YHiy
Paul Douglas Forest Preserve, Hoffman Estates, IL; https://goo.gl/maps/zyhpWr5YHiy