West Ridge Nature Park is a picturesque nature preserve on the western edge of Rosehill Cemetery near Edgewater, Chicago. It has a nicely restored pond with native wetland plantings, an oak savannah-like open woods and winding trails an boardwalks that will take us through these habitats. It is a good location for summer breeding birds, fall waterfowl, wintering sparrows and somewhat uncommon (within the city) visitors like white-eyed vireo and olive-sided flycatcher (in spring). Our trip will target fall migrants and early winter arrivals like warblers, sparrows and wintering ducks.

Leaders: Christine Williamson

You must RSVP in advance! Pre-registration is required. Please contact Vinod Babu (pavinodbabu@gmail.com) or Aerin Tedesco (aerintedesco@gmail.com) at least 24 hours in advance if you cannot attend or with questions.

Accessibility:
Total trip distance is less than two miles and will take place mostly on wide paved, crushed-gravel, or wood-chip trails that are relatively level with minimal incline. We may leave the trail at times to walk through the grass for a better view of the birds. Any recent rain may create muddy conditions.

Restrooms are not available on site.

Weather/Attire/Other:
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Please bring bottled water. Dress for the weather. Based on the forecast, you may want to bring jacket. Loaner binoculars will be available.

Location and Transportation:
The exact meeting location will be emailed in advance to registrants. Free parking is available at on Western although spots may be down the block from the entrance gate. West Ridge is accessible by public transit via the CTA 84 bus to Peterson and Western and 49 bus to Western & Berwyn Terminal.

Public Health:
Please bring a face mask with you. You may be asked to wear it as needed by the trip leader.