Bilingual Bird Hike Explores Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve

LOCKPORT, IL —All are welcome to join a Bilingual Bird Hike at Lockport Prairie Nature Preserve on Aug 27. The preserve is known for its unique habitat and varied bird population, according to the forest preserve.

The free, all-ages hike is scheduled for 8 to 10 a.m. on Aug. 27. The preserve said a Spanish translator will be present.

Registration is required to attend the program; you can sign up online or call 815-727-8700.

All bird-watching experience levels are welcome, from novice to expert, the preserve said. Joel Craig, a Will County Audubon society member and a Forest Preserve volunteer, will lead the hike.

“Lockport Prairie is great place to see birds because of the variety of habitats that can be viewed,” Craig said in a release. “The dolomite prairie that makes up the majority of the preserve supports a wide array of insects (including the endangered Hine’s emerald dragonfly) that provide food for many resident bird species.”

Other Lockport Prairie habitats draw birds as well.

“The savanna and woodlands along the river contain diverse species such as nesting bald eagles, woodpeckers, flycatchers and wood ducks,” Craig said. “Early fall migrants will also include many species of warblers, and ospreys are often seen near the river.

“And the wetlands and pond area provide food for area herons and egrets, and are a popular stopover point for early migrating shorebirds like sandpipers, yellowlegs and snipes,” he added.

The hike is part of the Forest Preserve’s The Preserves Are for You campaign launched earlier this year.

“The goal of the campaign is to get the word out that the preserves are open and accessible to all,” Cindy Cain, the Forest Preserve’s public information officer, said in a release. “No matter who you are, we have a preserve, an activity or a program for you. Age, race, gender, ethnicity and physical ability should not be a barrier to enjoying nature.”

You can bring binoculars and your favorite field guide if you have them, the preserve said. The hike will be 1 mile to 2 miles on natural surface trails over uneven terrain.

Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online no later than 48 hours before the program.