Extensive habitat and wetlands restoration have made Deer Grove one of the best breeding and migrant bird hot spots in the Chicago area. Deer Grove is the very first property acquired by the Cook County Forest Preserve District in 1916. The dense, mature woodlands in the western half of the preserve are ideal breeding grounds for species such as Wood Thrush, Hooded Warbler, Barred Owl and Red-eyed Vireo. Broad-winged Hawks also nest in tall trees on the ridges in DG West.

The prairie wetlands on the east side of the preserve have hosted breeding Sandhill Cranes in recent years and the abundant grasslands are home to breeding Eastern Meadowlarks, Bobolink, Dicksissel and Grasshopper Sparrows. The oak savannahs on this side of Deer Grove are home to Red-headed Woodpeckers, White-breasted Nuthatches, Northern Flickers and other birds of open groves.
This trip involves a lot of walking so be prepared for walking several miles. Be sure to carry water with you on the trail and dress for the weather. Beginning birders are welcome and we will have some loaner binoculars available.

Leader: Chris Williamson

You must RSVP in advance! Pre-registration is required for the bird walk. Please contact Chris (birdchris@aol.com) or aerin tedesco (aerintedesco@gmail.com) at least 24 hours in advance if you cannot attend or with questions.

Please read the safety instructions below CAREFULLY before signing up!!!

Safety Instructions:
- In order to attend you must be FULLY VACCINATED!!
- Please bring a face mask with you. You may be asked to wear it as needed by the trip leader.

Directions:
Meet in the westernmost corner of the main Deer Grove East parking lot on W. Dundee Road (between Hicks and Quentin Roads) in Palatine. https://goo.gl/maps/sAsBTPue7bpiTpPV7

As you come into the preserve, turn left into the first parking lot and look for people with binoculars. A map and more information about Deer Grove F.P. is available here: http://fpdcc.com/deer-grove/