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First Sundays at Helmick Nature Preserve

American White Pelicans at Helmick Nature Preserve in early spring

Event Type: Bird Walk
Date: Sunday, April 4, 2027
Time: 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Location: Helmick Nature Preserve
Address: Central Ave south of U.S. Rt 30, Matteson, IL Map

Hope you can join us for the April “First Sundays at Helmick” walk to enjoy the diversity of birds that changes with the seasons. We’ll explore the preserve’s marshland, open water, grassy areas, and wooded sections for birds and other creatures.

In April, we’ll be looking for:

  • A variety of winter waterfowl before they start depart

  • We’ll hope for pelicans that often stop here to briefly rest as they migrate north

  • Migrating kinglets, towhees, and hermit thrushes

  • Early arriving summer residents including swalllows and thrashers

  • Year round residents getting ready to nest

  • Raptors looking to snag a meal

We’ll meet in the parking lot for the South Suburban Humane Society facility at 21800 Central Avenue. Map.

The bird hike is on a paved path. There’s a porta potty where the trail crosses Ridgeland Ave; however, the walk will not go that far west.

The bird walk is free and open to everyone. New birders are welcome! No registration required.

Leaders: TBD

Last minute event changes: If weather or site conditions, such as a flooded path, necessitate a last minute cancellation, the information will be posted at the top of this page. If the weather is iffy, check this page before coming. Alternately, use the form below to sign up for an event change notification. We’ll email you if this bird walk has to be cancelled.

Questions? Send an email to: thorncreekaudubon@gmail.com

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March 7

First Sundays at Helmick Nature Preserve