Please join us for native seed distribution at Carruthers Nature Preserve in Lake Forest, where we will spread seeds that we previously collected and processed so that they settle in for spring growth in the preserve’s meadow areas. This is a continuing collaborative effort between Lake/Cook Audubon and the Lake Forest Open Lands Association, transitioning this property into an improved habitat for birds and other animal species by improving the native plant offerings. The property It lies along the North-South greenway, adjacent to the north branch of the Chicago River.
Be sure to wear sturdy footwear because we will walk a small distance off the trail/boardwalks. Dress warmly and consider waterproof boots. The ground is frozen at present. You can bring your own gloves, or we will have some available (these are thinner but can be used to cover your own warmer ones). Water, snacks and hot drinks will be provided.
NOTE: Backup weather date is Thursday January 29.
Directions: If you are heading north on Route 41, turn left (west) on Westleigh Rd and drive 1/2 mile to Wallace Rd. Turn right and park on the street. From Waukegan Rd (Route 43), turn east onto Westleigh Rd, pass the West Skokie River entrance, turn left (north) and park along Wallace Rd. The sign for Carruthers is on the corner. https://maps.app.goo.gl/RGFAG74a9zKFtm3C6?g_st=i&utm_campaign=ac-im
Registration: Please email Maureen Marsh at firefeats@hotmail.com to let her know you will participate.
Every fall, the entire North American population of Broad-winged Hawks fill the sky in what is often called “a river of raptors” as they journey thousands of miles to their wintering grounds in South America. In 2012 and 2013, however, monitoring data suggested a population decline of 10 to 40% in some Eastern states. The next year, to better understand the threats to this forest-nesting raptor, biologists at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Pennsylvania began tagging adult and juvenile birds with transmitters to track them year-round. Dr. Laurie Goodrich, Director of Conservation Science at the sanctuary, will join us to discuss what’s been discovered about the bird’s migration patterns, stopover habits, nesting behavior, and other data that can help set conservation priorities for this species.