In this single-morning workshop for beginners at The Morton Arboretum, learn how to find birds and how to keep track of your observations. Discuss birdwatching equipment, what to wear, and more.
We’ll begin in the classroom with a short lesson on birding basics. Then we’ll stroll around the Arboretum to observe birds that inhabit Illinois all year, learning key bird features for identification and how to match birds to their preferred food or habitat as you walk.
This program meets in person at the Arboretum.
Instructors: Tony Del Valle, research coordinator, The Morton Arboretum; Nathan Hambel, wildlife interpreter, Willowbrook Wildlife Center
Age: 16 and older
Course number: O001
Instructors
Tony Del Vallé, research coordinator, The Morton Arboretum
Tony Del Vallé has been birding since taking courses in ornithology in 2013 at the University of Wisconsin–Madison where he earned his bachelor’s degree in wildlife ecology. He has since worked on multiple bird research projects as a technician and studied grassland birds at Nachusa Grasslands and Kankakee Sands as part of his master’s degree at Northern Illinois University. He currently works as a research coordinator in the Soil Ecology Lab at The Morton Arboretum. He serves as a volunteer for the Illinois spring bird count and Christmas bird count in DeKalb County and has led multiple bird walks.
Nathan Hambel, wildlife interpreter, Willowbrook Wildlife Center
Nate Hambel is a wildlife interpreter at Willowbrook Wildlife Center in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, where he educates visitors about urban wildlife, the center’s resident animals, and the rehabilitation of injured animals. With a masters degree in biology, Hambel is an avid birder and outdoors person, leading programs and trips that help people connect with nature.
What to Know
This class spends extended time outdoors. Plan to walk on wood-chipped trails and other uneven surfaces.
Please dress for the weather, including long pants and walking shoes with closed toes.
Please bring binoculars and a favorite field guide, if you have them; a limited number will be available to check out during class.
Bring a water bottle.
Program Schedule
Section D: Saturday, May 11, 2024, 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Thornhill Picnic Shelter (Parking Lot 21)
