Red-headed woodpeckers are often seen in the oaks behind the First Division Museum. (Photo by Jean Spitzer)
Many people who stroll the grounds of Cantigny like to watch birds. With that in mind, the park began an organized birdwatching program in 2008.
We want Cantigny to be a regular birding destination for those who already enjoy the hobby and for those just getting started. Participants of all ability levels are welcome!
Our program is anchored by guided bird walks on the second Saturday of every month. The walks are free and originate from the Visitors Center. Volunteers from the DuPage Birding Club serve as leaders, helping participants find and identify as many bird species as possible. Binoculars are available free of charge for those who may need to borrow a pair.
Results from past bird walks are accessible from this page (see below). There is also a link to a “master list” of confirmed bird sightings at Cantigny. Our list is growing fast!
A log for bird sightings is kept at the information kiosk in the Cantigny Visitors Center. You can check the notebook to learn what birds have been spotted recently, and then record your own sightings before leaving the park. The log also contains Saturday bird walk results and the dates of upcoming walks.
A field guide is kept behind the counter of the kiosk for reference – feel free to ask for it if you need to check on bird identifications.
The feeders outside of Le Jardin in the Visitors Center are another part of the Cantigny birding program. When visiting the park, be sure to check them!
Finally, to stay informed, consider joining the Cantigny Birding e-mail list. You'll receive news about upcoming bird walks and messages about birds seen on the estate. To join, please send your information to Jeff Reiter at jreiter@mccormickfoundation.org.
Enjoy the birds of Cantigny!
Results from recent Cantigny bird walks:
Next Cantigny bird walk is on July 10, 2010 at the Cantigny Golf Course! Check the events calendar for details.
Feb: Fri-Sun, 9am to Sunset*Mar-Apr: 9am to Sunset*May-Oct: 7am to Sunset*Nov-Dec: 9am to Sunset*
*The in-bound park gate closes one hour prior to sunset.
1S151 Winfield RoadWheaton, IL 60189630.668.5161
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See entire events calendar »
