Geneva Named Bird City Illinois Community

GENEVA, IL — Geneva has officially been named a Bird City Illinois community, the city announced Monday.

The Audubon Council of Illinois presented Geneva with the certification at the April 20 City Council meeting. The designation is awarded to communities that demonstrate a significant, ongoing commitment to bird conservation and education.

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The Natural Resources Committee, comprised of resident volunteers, has spent two years working toward certification by meeting best birding practices and hosting educational events. The committee also schedules work days at the Fabyan and Gunnar Anderson forest preserves to remove invasive species.

To celebrate the Bird City Illinois designation, the committee will host annual bird watches, starting with "The Big Sit" from 8-9:30 a.m. May 17 at Fabyan East Forest Preserve Pavilion No. 3, 1500 Crissey Ave.

The bird-watching event is planned in celebration of World Migratory Bird Day. It is open to both beginners and seasoned birders, who will help identify various species that make their home in the woods. Nature-focused art by artist Maria Ananieva and photographer Erick Waldchen will also be on display during the event.

Participants should bring a chair, binoculars, a hat and sunscreen, organizers said. Parking is available near the Fabyan Windmill lot off Route 25.