Chicago Outdoors: A Playing Redtail and Should Bird Feeders be Back
Introduction to Chicago Outdoors
Notes come from around Chicago outdoors. The outdoors offer a wide range of activities and sights to enjoy, from birdwatching to hiking and more.
Wild of the Week
A young red-tailed hawk was photographed "play hunting" at Rosehill Cemetery. Paul Vriend noted, "After taking a couple of passes at a goose feeding on the grass, the hawk started attacking a stick that was near the goose. The attacks mimicked just about every attack, pounce, swoop, seize, I have ever seen a hawk perform in the field."
A young red-tailed hawk dive bombs a stick while practicing hunting at Rosehill Cemetery.
Dale’s Mailbag
Bonnie asked, "Because of the bird problems of the past year I have discontinued feeding them. I live in the co-ops in Park Forest and we have a lively population. And I love them. There have been no deceased creatures in my neighborhood. Am wondering if I can begin feeding them again. Is the pandemic still?"
The answer to Bonnie’s question is that the risk of an outbreak among wild songbirds is currently low, and there is no official recommendation to take down feeders unless you also keep domestic poultry, according to the National Wildlife Disease Program.
Wild Times
Ducks Unlimited
Friday, March 28: Lemont dinner, Crystal Grand Banquet Hall, https://ducksunlimited.myeventscenter.com/event/Lockport-Dinner-99277
Showtime
Through Sunday, March 23: Illinois Deer Classic, Peoria Civic Center
Today, March 22: Riverside Fishing Club swap meet, 8 a.m.-noon, Berwyn Moose Lodge
The master list of outdoors shows, classes, swap meets and major ice fishing events are https://chicago.suntimes.com/outdoors/2024/11/28/outdoors-shows-master-list-for-2025-around-chicago-and-beyond
Illinois Permits/Seasons
Next weekend, March 29-30: First youth spring turkey season
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
March 29: Boat America, Chicago, Deborah Leja, d.leja.uscgaux@gmail.com
March 29: Introduction to Basic Boating Safety, Country Club Hills, Katie Libera, katie@waterwerks.com
Hunter Safety
April 5-6: Beecher, bschunted@gmail.com
April 25 & 27: Peotone, 708-258-3343 or peotoneparkdistrict.com
The full state listing is at dnr2.illinois.gov/SafetyEd/SafetyEdClassByCounty
SCI Banquet
April 12: SCI Illinois & Chicago chapter’s banquet, Medinah Banquets, Addison
Conclusion
The Chicago outdoors offer a wide range of activities and sights to enjoy. From birdwatching to hiking and more, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or just starting to explore the great outdoors, Chicago has something to offer.
FAQs
Q: Is it safe to feed birds again?
A: Yes, the risk of an outbreak among wild songbirds is currently low, and there is no official recommendation to take down feeders unless you also keep domestic poultry.
Q: What are some upcoming outdoors events in the Chicago area?
A: Some upcoming events include the Illinois Deer Classic, Riverside Fishing Club swap meet, and the SCI Illinois & Chicago chapter’s banquet.
Q: Where can I find more information on outdoors shows and events?
A: The master list of outdoors shows, classes, swap meets and major ice fishing events are available at https://chicago.suntimes.com/outdoors/2024/11/28/outdoors-shows-master-list-for-2025-around-chicago-and-beyond.
