Join us on this short transit hike along Division Street. Our primary birding location will be Humboldt Park, one of the best birding hotspots in the city. We’ll look for winter raptors and waterfowl as well as welcome early spring migrants such as Red-winged Blackbirds, Wood Ducks, and perhaps Killdeer or Common Grackles.
To celebrate the Year of the Peregrine, we will also journey to Saint Mary Hospital to look for the resident Peregrines. Nesting season begins in March, so there is a chance Owena and Neal will be close by to defend their territory.
Note that this is a transit hike and meant to be a green outing. You are welcome to travel via bike or scooter but in the spirit of the hike, we ask that you not travel via car between locations. You can also grab the Division bus if the timing is right. Please bring a CTA pass and comfortable walking shoes, and stay for as much or as little of the hike as you like. The entire hike will likely take around 3 hours.
Leaders: Robyn Detterline and Stephanie Beilke
You must RSVP in advance. Pre-registration is required for the bird walk. Please contact Robyn Detterline (rdetterline@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 approximately 2 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. Recent rain and snow may create muddy and/or icy conditions.
Restrooms are available at the Humboldt Park Field House beginning at 10:00 a.m.
Weather/Attire/Other:
We recommend dressing in layers as appropriate for the late winter weather.
Location and Transportation:
The exact meeting location will be emailed in advance to registrants. We will be travelling along the Division corridor. The #70 Division bus can be used to reach the park and the hospital. Other nearby lines include the #94 California, #72 North, and #82 Kimball-Homan.
Public Health:
Please bring a face mask with you. You may be asked to wear it as needed by the trip leader.