Co-leaders – Bob Dolgan and Christine Williamson

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 summer prairie at Paul Douglas is another great reason to visit 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.

Limit: 10 people. Pre-registration is required. Register here

If you have questions about the trip, please contact Christine at birdchris@aol.com. If you need help on the trip day, please call Christine at 773/415-5217.

If you need to CANCEL your registration for this trip, please contact Christine at least 48 hours before the trip so we can allow another person to join the trip from the waiting list.

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.