Migratory birds topic of program at Glacial Park

McHenry County's woodlands, wetlands and grasslands are visited by thousands of birds each spring as they travel back north to their nesting grounds.

The McHenry County Conservation District will celebrate the birds' triumphant return to the area at International Migratory Bird Day, from 7 a.m. to noon Saturday at Wiedrich Education Center, Glacial Park, 6316 Harts Road in Ringwood.

"We want to share the wonders of birds and the joys of bird watching with birdwatchers of all levels," said Kim Caldwell, education program coordinator for the McHenry County Conservation District.

The event kicks off with a morning bird hike through various habitats in Glacial Park from 7 to 9 a.m. Participants are encouraged to bring their own binoculars and field books, but there will be some available on-site as well.

The bird hike will be followed by a free continental breakfast, featuring shade-grown, bird friendly coffee at 9 a.m., and a lecture series starting at 9:30 a.m.

Keynote speaker Bob Morgan of the Swainson's Hawk Project will share his exciting research into this state-endangered bird. Linda Breuer from Barnswallow, a nonprofit raptor rehabilitation facility, will feature some of the ambassadors that her organization uses to educate the public.

This event also will feature informational booths by the McHenry County Audubon Society and Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

For more information about International Migratory Bird Day, visit Web site www.MCCDistrict.org or call (815) 479-5779.