Naturalist to give two nature programs

Join naturalist Mary Ochsenschlager of the Sugar Grove Park District for two nature programs Saturday, May 7.

A Beginner's Bird Walk will take place from 7 to 9:30 a.m. Then at 1 p.m. there will be a Wildflower Walk. Both programs will take place at Bliss Woods Forest Preserve in Sugar Grove.

Many beautiful birds that make northern Illinois their home in summer should have returned from the south. They will be in their full breeding plumage. Some we might expect to see are bluebirds, orioles, blue-grey gnatcatchers, and rose-breasted grosbeaks.

Bring binoculars and a bird book if you have them. Several pairs of binoculars will be available for those who don't own them.

In the afternoon, experience the welcome and lovely spring wildflowers such as trillium, ginger, false rue anemone, buttercups and others.

Bliss Woods is a very high-quality woodland and will delight us with other treasures besides its birds and wildflowers.

Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. The walks start at the inner parking lot. Cost of each program is $5. Sign up for one or both.

Bliss Woods is on Bliss Road just east of Route 47. Register for the class at www.sugargroveparkdistrict.org or by going to the park district office. For details, call (630) 466-7436.