Lake County birder Richard Bisbee and Illinois Department of Natural Resources employee Stacy Iwanicki have tips for beginning birders to enjoy the May migration.
* Start as early as possible in the day, when the insects come out for birds to eat. However, you can see migratory birds nearly any time during the day in May.
* Although forest preserves and other natural areas provide great habitat for migratory birds, these species also land in suburban yards after a night’s migration. Watch what’s happening in your own backyard. You’ll be surprised at what you might find.
* Choose a bird and write down its size, color pattern and behaviors. Then check a field guide for identification.
* Check local nature groups to see when they’re offering free bird walks near you. Experts can help you find and identify the birds.
* Visit these places for good looks at migratory birds: Montrose Harbor, Chicago; Des Plaines River forest preserves, including Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods and Wright Woods in Vernon Hills; Illinois Beach State Park in Zion; Waukegan Beach; Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe; and the Palos Preserves in Cook County.
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Sheryl DeVore is a freelancer for the News-Sun.