Location: Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, 200 W. Montrose Harbor Dr., Chicago.
Date: Saturday, 1/31/26
Time: 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
This trip is specifically for beginning birders. We will focus on birding basics and identifying both common and less common birds found in Chicago during winter. Winter is an excellent time for beginning birders, as learning our year-round resident species provides a strong foundation for birding throughout the rest of the year. With trees and shrubs free of leaves and foliage, songbirds are often easier to spot and observe. Montrose Point offers opportunities to see wintering ducks, gulls, and raptors, along with hardy sparrows and woodpeckers. Depending on conditions, we may also encounter unusual winter visitors, offering a chance to experience the diversity of bird life that remains active in the city during the colder months.
Leaders: Chris Cochrane
Pre-registration is required. Please contact Chris Cochrane (cochrane97@gmail.com) at least 24 hours in advance if you cannot attend or with questions.
Accessibility:
Total trip distance is approximately 2 miles. The majority of the trip will take place on paved trails with minimal incline and to a lesser extent on well-worn dirt paths. We may leave the trail at times to walk through grassy areas for a better view of the birds, and we may walk on a sandy beach. Any recent rain or snow may create muddy or slippery conditions.
Restrooms are available at parking lot portable toilets.
Weather/Attire/Other:
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Please bring bottled water. Dress for the weather. Based on the forecast, you may want to bring a heavy coat, hat, and gloves. Bring your own binoculars. Loaner binoculars will also be available.
The exact meeting location will be emailed in advance to registrants. Metered parking is available on Montrose Harbor Drive and free parking is available on Montrose Avenue. Montrose Bird Sanctuary is accessible by public transit via the 78 bus. Bike racks are available on site.
Respiratory Illness Precautions:
COS supports the decision of individual trip participants to wear masks.