Common Buckthorn is a European shrub that has invaded our neighborhoods and forests. Buckthorn grows and spreads quickly, forming a dense understory that crowds out the shrubs and plants that are native to Illinois. Buckthorn removal is a high-priority of state, county, and local governments, but unless the mitigated area is restored with native shrubs and herbaceous plants and ground covers, the buckthorn will return. The eradication of buckthorn also removes the understory, an important habitat layer for animals. This understory is particularly critical for birds, who use it for food, shelter, and nesting.

Some of the most beautiful but threatened songbird species in the world, rest and refuel in Chicago during their spring and fall migrations. The stunning Prothonotary Warbler, the mascot of this event, flies thousands of miles during migration. Other species double that distance with their flights from South America. Birds are not the only beneficiaries; native plants also attract native butterflies, moths, dragonflies, caterpillars, bees, and other pollinators.

The over 200 bird species migrating through or breeding in the forest preserves of the Lower North Branch of the Chicago River, must be provided with a healthy native understory. Recognizing the importance of an avian-based restoration, the Chicago Ornithological Society raises money to purchase native shrubs to re-create this understory.

Funds raised over the past four years have been used to plant over 2500 native shrubs at LaBagh Woods, with an 80% survival rate. With this measured success at LaBagh Woods, we want to build on our success with more shrubs in LaBagh, with hopes to eventually spread that success upriver along the Lower North Branch.

Thank you for supporting this volunteer-led project to support the world’s birds.