Festival Schedule
Field Sketching Wading Birds with Kelly Ballantyne
In our field sketching session, we'll turn our attention to the graceful wading birds! These fascinating creatures demand both patience and keen observation.
Big Birds at Big Marsh
Big Marsh is perhaps Chicago’s best wetland area for birding and it is home to many big birds! Species such as Great Egret, Great Blue Heron, and Black-crowned Night Heron are all staples of Big Marsh, but other large birds can be found here during fall migration as well.
Un paseo para observar aves en McKinley Park
Immerse yourself in urban birding at McKinley Park, Chicago. This historic park, despite its bustling city surroundings, provides a green haven for over 100 bird species.
North & South Pond with Indigo Birding
On this trip you will move from North to South Pond exploring both areas and places in between. Lincoln Park's North and South Ponds are a birdwatcher's paradise in the heart of Chicago.
Migrant Traps of South Shore
Escape the city buzz and dive into birding at Rainbow Beach, Chicago. This sandy oasis offers a unique birding experience thanks to its restored dune habitat and expansive beach. Over 250 species have been spotted here, making it a hotspot for both common and migratory birds.
Birds of the South Shore
Join us for an exciting bird walk at the South Shore Cultural Center! This event is perfect for bird enthusiasts of all ages, and we warmly welcome families to come and experience the beauty of nature together.
The Best of Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary and Dunes
Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, located along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Chicago, is a renowned haven for birders. Known for its diverse habitats, including dunes, woodlands, and grasslands, the sanctuary attracts a wide array of bird species.
Afternoon Birding at Jarvis Bird Sanctuary
More than 150 different species of birds visit the 10 acre Bill Jarvis Migratory Bird Sanctuary each year. Among them six species of herons and bitterns (including black crowned night herons), wood ducks, hawks, yellow-billed cuckoos, hummingbirds, thrushes, vireos, 34 species of warblers, 18 native species of sparrows, and many more.
Beginning Birding at Montrose Point
Whether you are just discovering birding, hoping to share birding with family members, or trying to develop newfound skills, there is probably no better place in Chicago than Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary!
West Side Birding at Douglass Park
Part of the historic Chicago park and boulevard system, Douglass Park is a 218 acre park with over 210 bird species recorded on the West Side of Chicago.
Intro to Birding: North Pond
North Pond in Lincoln Park, Chicago is a haven for birdwatchers. The 15-acre area, despite being located in the heart of the city, provides a habitat for a surprising variety of birds.
Observando Aves en Paseo Boricua
El Parque de Humboldt, un extenso espacio verde en el West Side de Chicago, es un vibrante parque urbano con lagunas, prados y bosques.
Field Museum Birding & Collections Tour
The Field Museum is one of the largest natural history museums in the world, functioning as a bank of biological material from around the world in addition to a space for the public to experience the earth's natural wonders.
Taco Lunch at Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Taco lunch from Taqueria Mi Barrio Tepito. Lunch includes tacos and drinks. Vegetarian options will be provided.