Chicago is known for many things: its iconic skyline, its deep-dish pizza, its bustling nightlife. But there is another aspect of the city that often goes unnoticed: its rich and diverse birdlife.
From rare and colorful visitors like the red crossbills to majestic predators like the bald eagles, Chicago has become a destination for birdwatchers of all levels and interests.
A Winter Haven for Rare Birds
THOMAS KIENZLE/AFP via Getty Images
One of the reasons why Chicago attracts so many birds is its location along the Mississippi Flyway, a major migratory route that spans from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico.
During the winter, when many birds seek warmer climates, some species find refuge in the city's parks, forests, and wetlands. These include waterfowl, raptors, sparrows, and finches.
One of the most sought-after winter visitors is the red crossbill, a finch with a distinctive crossed bill that helps it extract seeds from pine cones.
These birds are nomadic and unpredictable, following the availability of food rather than a fixed pattern. They can appear in large numbers in one year and be absent the next, making every sighting a rare and exciting event.
John Leonard, a retired neuroscience professor and a lifelong birder, was lucky enough to spot a flock of 17 red crossbills at the Morton Arboretum in December 2023.
He was part of a group of birdwatchers who participate in the annual Christmas Bird Count, a citizen science project that aims to monitor the status and distribution of bird populations across the Americas.
Leonard described the experience as "thrilling" and "unforgettable". He said he had only seen red crossbills once before, in Colorado, and never expected to see them in Chicago.
He said the birds were very cooperative and allowed him to observe them closely and take photos. He said they were "beautiful" and "amazing".
Leonard is not alone in his passion for birds. Chicago has a long and rich history of birdwatching, dating back to the late 19th century, when naturalists like Robert Kennicott and Charles Cory founded the Chicago Academy of Sciences and the Field Museum, respectively.
These institutions became centers of ornithological research and education, as well as repositories of thousands of bird specimens from around the world.
In the 20th century, Chicago saw the rise of influential birdwatchers like Joseph Grinnell, Margaret Morse Nice, and Roger Tory Peterson, who made significant contributions to the fields of ecology, behavior, and conservation.
They also inspired generations of amateur birders, who formed clubs, societies, and networks to share their knowledge and enthusiasm.
Today, Chicago boasts a vibrant and diverse birdwatching community, with dozens of organizations, events, and resources available for anyone interested in birds.
From guided walks and field trips to lectures and workshops, there is something for everyone, regardless of age, background, or skill level.
Some of the most popular venues for birdwatching include Montrose Point, Jackson Park, North Pond, and of course, the Morton Arboretum.
Chicago is also home to some of the most innovative and impactful bird conservation initiatives in the country, such as the Lights Out program, which encourages buildings to reduce their nighttime illumination to prevent bird collisions, and the Bird-Friendly Design Ordinance, which sets standards for bird-safe architecture and landscaping.
These efforts have helped make the city more hospitable and attractive for birds, as well as more aware and appreciative of their presence and value.
Chicago may not be the first place that comes to mind when one thinks of birdwatching, but it is certainly one of the best. With its variety, beauty, and history, it offers a unique and rewarding experience for anyone who loves birds. As Leonard put it, "It's a birdwatcher's paradise".
