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U of I Extension
Birdwatching at Kickapoo Park
[March 20, 2026]
During the months of April and
May, 2026, the birdwatching station at Kickapoo Creek Park will be
manned on Saturday mornings by experienced birdwatchers to help
visitors identify the many birds that visit the nearby feeders. A
University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalist volunteer will be
on duty from 9:00 to 11:00 am every Saturday. On Saturday, April 25,
this activity will also coincide with the park’s annual Earth Day
Tree Giveaway.
Observers are likely to see not only the familiar cardinals, blue
jays and chickadees, but also red-winged blackbirds, at least three
species of woodpecker, nuthatches, titmice and finches, among
others. Colorful orioles or rose breasted grosbeaks also stop by
occasionally. The feeders are within 20 feet of the station’s large
windows, so binoculars are optional, though they provide spectacular
close-ups. Nature photographers also like to take advantage of such
cooperative subjects.
When a Master Naturalist is on duty on Saturday mornings, the
station’s sign will display a special “Birdwatcher on Duty” panel.
At other times, species identification is aided by large colored
posters on the walls. “I can usually get close-ups of at least a
dozen species during a visit,” says Master Naturalist Bev Noble,
“and it’s easy to keep track of my sightings, because the station
provides checklists of common birds.”
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The station,
enclosed on three sides and with benches next to the windows,
was constructed several years ago by Logan County Master
Naturalists. It is always accessible and a fun stopping point
for all ages. Located near the park’s office and machine shed on
the main road, the feeders are regularly stocked by Park Ranger
John Fink with a wide variety of food offerings.
[Jennifer Fishburn
Horticulture Educator]
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