Bird habitat conservation highlighted in day-long bird-watching event

The Forest Preserves of Cook County invites residents and visitors to celebrate bird conservation during a free, day-long event hosted at each of the FPCC’s six Nature Centers. The Big Sit, a signature event of the Bird the Preserves initiative, offers birders of all experience levels an invitation to grab a seat in the Preserves and count how many birds they can spot or hear without leaving a 17-foot circle.

The Big Sit will take place from 5:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 7, and visitors can join in at any time. In addition to a day of birding, Nature Center visitors can also enjoy a variety of other fun family-friendly activities including bird presentations, crafts and more.

“This event is a great opportunity for visitors to explore one of the Forest Preserves’ Nature Centers while experiencing what a fun, family-friendly activity birding can be,” said Forest Preserves General Superintendent Arnold Randall. “The species of birds that can be spotted in Cook County are as diverse as the Preserves themselves, and we hope visitors will take advantage of the many exciting events and programs we are hosting this year during the Bird the Preserves initiative.”

“We want to celebrate the wonderful diversity of birds you can see in Cook County in the spring,” said Louise Clemency, field supervisor of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Chicago office. “And especially, we want to share the experience with people who might not know about the natural wonder of wildlife migration that takes place every spring: millions of colorful little songbirds flying through the night and landing in our yards and Preserves to rest and eat for the day before continuing their journey to breeding ground in the north.”

Throughout 2016, the Forest Preserves welcomes visitors to take advantage of frequent opportunities to view some of the most interesting and spectacular birds in the Preserves. Odd mating dances, unbelievable migrations and interesting birds will take center stage at bird walks, festivals and informational programs across Cook County.

Each month, a new bird will also be highlighted. Visitors will have the opportunity to spot the bird of the month at an event or program, and learn what makes that bird so special. Numerous birding groups will also be hosting bird walks throughout the year. Visit fpdcc.com/birding to learn more about the multitude of birding opportunities.

Join a growing movement of nature lovers and bird the preserves this year while enjoying the many amenities offered throughout the Forest Preserves, including miles of marked trails, major waterways that can be canoed or kayaked, dedicated nature preserves and more.

Support for Bird the Preserves was generously provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through Chicago Wilderness. For more information, visit fpdcc.com/birding.

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