The first written accounts of local birds were published in the 1850s. This talk looks at fluctuating bird population over the ensuing 150 years. Some birds have disappeared altogether or are barely hanging on, while others have increased dramatically. One surprising example are the two local black corvids. When the prairies were intact, common ravens were the dominant species while crows were restricted to wooded riparian areas. But once the prairie lands were converted to agriculture, the ravens totally disappeared and the crows took over.  Joel has a strong interest in historical natural history and has written three books related to that topic.

Note Location Information: This talk will take place in the Linton Room of the Levy Center, 300 Dodge Avenue, Evanston. The Levy Center is south of the intersection of Oakton St and Dodge Ave., north of the intersection of Howard St. and Dodge Ave. on the west side of the street. Park in the parking lot.

The first event in our 100th Birthday Celebration Series