RSVP Required. Meet at the Fort Sheridan Hawk Watch site 100yds NW of the parking lot.

The Fort Sheridan Hawkwatch in October is the best time for diversity of migrant raptors.  Both Sharp-shinned Hawks and Merlin are at their peak, with Osprey slowing down and Red-tailed Hawks beginning to pick up.  Other migrant raptors at this time of year include Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, Cooper's Hawk, and American Kestrel.  More unlikely, but not out of the question, are Broad-winged Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, and Rough-legged Hawk, and if we're REALLY lucky, Northern Goshawk!  These counts can include hundreds of migrant raptors pouring over the count site.  Outside of raptors, Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve is an excellent location of migrant passerines, especially sparrows, in October.  If the migration is not very active, we will walk around the varied habitat surrounding the watch to search for mid-October migrants.

YOU MUST RSVP for this trip! Because this stationary spot can get crowded, we are limiting it to 25 people.
RSVP here.

Be sure to dress warm for the hawkwatch. Being stationary for hawkwatching means you need to dress warmer than expected. Bring layers for twenty degrees colder than the actual temperature. If you get to warm, you can lose a layer, but you will regret not having that extra layer or gloves if you want them!
The count site is just northwest of the parking lot, about a 100 yard walk. It can't be missed. You'll see the picnic tables as you drive into the forest preserve.
Google Map pin.

Trip Leader: Adam Sell
Contact Adamwardsell@gmail.com with any questions.