Chicago Bird Watching

It may surprise you to hear that Chicago is home to more birds than just the common pigeon. In fact, it's one of the only big cities where a birdwatcher can find such a wide variety of species. The migratory route from the south to Canada happens to run right through Chicago because of its position on Lake Michigan. Because of this, Chicagoans are treated to more than three hundred species of birds each year. Read on to find the best places to get in touch with nature and do some bird watching in the city.

The best place to go for bird watching in all of Chicago is Montrose Point. Look for the "Magic Hedge," a strip of trees and bushes between Harbor Drive and the lake, and you're liable to see a huge variety of birds. Local birdwatchers joke that the Magic Hedge is the "in" place to be if you have feathers, and every migrating bird stops by sooner or later. Warblers, sparrows, cuckoos, vireos, tanagers, flycatchers, reddish egrets, groove billed anis, and thrushes have all been spotted here.

At the South Shore Cultural Nature Sanctuary you can get lost in nature as you explore the different habitats, including wetlands, prairies and dunes, that are home to the wide array of birds. The birds are attracted to the fruit trees, and you're likely to spot cardinals, sparrows and red winged blackbirds.

For a glimpse of the majestic Peregrine Falcon, head to the Paul Douglas Nature Sanctuary at Jackson Park. The falcon was reintroduced to the area and has been know to settle at the Sanctuary. You might also see a Monk Parakeet if you keep your eyes peeled.

For a true bird watching treat, grab your binoculars and go to Northerly Island. You'll likely spot a number of species, including shorebirds, gulls and loons. There's also a good chance you'll spot a snowy owl, which will make the trip out to this man made peninsula worth your while.

The Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area just southwest of the city of Chicago is a great place to spend the day bird watching. The area is home to several species, such as the Northern Harrier, Henslow's Sparrow, and King Rails. In the winter, short eared owl often stop by the fields looking for dinner.

Wooded Island is another great bet if you're looking for variety. Black rails and monk parakeets are common here, along with woodpeckers and cardinals.