Waukegan Christmas Count
Compiler: Joel Greenberg, 630-725-9416

Chicago Lakefront Christmas Count
Compiler: Joel Greenberg, 630-725-9416

Roberta Asher will present This a multi-media presentation about an IOS-sponsored trip to Cuba.  Cuba is one of the most important countries for neotropical migratory birds.  A total of 370 species have been recorded on the island.  Cuba has 26 endemic bird species and 25 endemic subspecies including the small, but spectacularly colorful, Cuban Tody, the elegant Cuban Trogon, and the Bee Hummingbird (the tiniest hummingbird in the world).   This presentation will highlight many of the birds seen on this trip.  In addition, Cuba is an island full of 50’s nostalgia, enchanting scenery, rich culture, friendly people, spectacular architecture, and alluring music. Experience the sights and sounds of today’s Cuba, from the street scenes and music of Havana, to pastoral countryside.   Learn what to expect when you go birding in Cuba – birds and then some.

Weekend Getaway NEW TRIP. The Mighty Mississippi. Savanna, Thomson area of Carroll County, Illinois along the Upper Mississippi River NWR area.  November 14-15. Target species include Bald Eagles and 100s of Tundra Swans and other waterfowl and lingering land birds.  Overnight in Savanna Saturday only.  Travel early Saturday morning.  Return Sunday afternoon. Dinner in Galena Area. $25 deposit.  $50 double occupancy. $100 single occupancy. Limited to 12 participants.  RSVP with Leader David Johnson at djohnsoda@comcast.net.

With the Northern Saw-whet Owl as her “spark bird”, Alexandra Forsythe has taken a special interest in owls.  Many of us have extensive life lists, but we know very little about owls. These creatures of the night have unique adaptations, abilities and behaviors that have rarely been studied, each owl species different from the next. Learn more about these special birds of prey during this highly entertaining and interactive presentation by Alexandra Forsythe. She is an experienced raptor rehabber for Soarin’ Hawk, and a long-time participant in Project Owlnet. She is the author of the Indiana Audubon Society’s “Bird of the Month” articles, and Youth Advisor for Indiana Audubon Society. At just 15, she is Indiana’s first Young Birder of the Year and a highly sought-after speaker. She will be introduced by Joel Greenberg. NOTE: CHANGE OF VENUE!! THIS MEETING WILL BE AT THE LEVY CENTER IN EVANSTON, 300 DODGE, IN THE LINDEN ROOM.  PLENTY OF PARKING.  SAME TIME: 7:30

Birds and Song: A Community Celebration
Join us on Saturday, October 17, from 3:30-4:30 to celebrate the installation of the Clark Street Bird Sanctuary. This Sanctuary along the lake has been designed as a safe haven for migrating birds to rest and find food as they fly to and from their breeding grounds. Enjoy the music of Belize, Dominican Republic and Haiti - places that both people and birds migrate to our community from. Learn more about birds and the Sanctuary and how you can become involved. Come for fun, information, and refreshments. Everyone is welcome to the festivities on the lawn near the Clark St. Beach House. Bring a chair if you don't want to stand. Before and after the ceremony, a bird migration expert from BirdLife International and one of the Sanctuary designers will be available for questions and answers. 

“Birds and Bagels,” an informal bird walk at Clark St. Beach Bird Sanctuary. Meet at 10:30 - 11:30 at the Clark St. Beach House.

Meet at the kiosk at the corner of Bennett and Grant at 8:30 a.m. for fall warblers and other resident birds.  Register with info@ensbc.org. Limit: 15 people. This is part of the Cook County Forest Preserve’s 100th Anniversary celebration weekend. Leader: Gary Hantsbarger

View the new Clark St. Beach Bird Sanctuary as it is being planted. Learn about the Sanctuary, watch for birds, and enjoy bagel snacks. Meet at the Clark St. Beach House beginning at 10:30.  From 10:30-11:30. Leaders: members of ENSBC, Evanston Treekeepers, Citizens for Greener Evanston, and LakeDance.