Limit: 12 people. You MUST RSVP for this trip!
This late summer trip will feature breeding birds wrapping up a summer of feeding fledglings and migrant birds pausing at the Lake Calumet region’s Big Marsh to rest and fuel up on their journey south. Butterflies and dragonflies also should be abundant at this time of the year,
The big marsh is a remnant of the vast wetlands which once rimmed Lake Michigan’s southern shores. The area was opened for public access only a few years ago. A new trail system, habitat restoration and water quality improvements are returning the marsh – once a dumping ground for waste by nearby industries – to importance for native birds, plants and other animals.
Special instructions: Be prepared to bring plenty of water with you on the trail as temperatures may be high. Wear a hat, sunscreen and bring insect repellent. Wear long pants to deter ticks.
Leader: Christine Williamson
For more information, please contact Christine at birdchris@aol.com. If you need help on the day of the trip, please call Christine’s cell phone 773/415-5217 (DON'T text).
Meeting place: The Big Marsh parking lot on Stony Island Ave. The address of the park is 11599 E. Stony Island Ave., Chicago.
Driving directions:
From Chicago, take I-94 south and exit at 130th Street eastbound, turn left/north on Torrence Ave.; left/west on 122nd Street; and right/north on Stony Island Ave. The sign-posted parking lot for the Big Marsh will be on the right/east side of the road. You have to pay to park at Big Marsh now so plan accordingly. https://goo.gl/maps/7R9zmJUutBH2
Big Marsh, Chicago; https://goo.gl/maps/7R9zmJUutBH2