Certain places around the Prairie State really come alive with the sounds of songbirds, even a city as big as Chicago. Located within Lincoln Park, Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is a stopping point for food, shelter, and rest to migratory songbirds in Illinois during the spring, and again in the fall. If you love birdwatching and hearing the sounds of birds singing, grab your binoculars and head out to this magical bird sanctuary in Chicago.

Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is a 13-acre refuge found within Chicago’s Lincoln Park. As one of the best places for birdwatching in Illinois, over 300 different species have been seen here.

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With the arrival of spring brings the return of thousands upon thousands of migratory songbirds to the Prairie State. And Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary is the perfect place to be to spot them.

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Within the sanctuary is a 150-yard stretch of honeysuckle, shrubs, and trees. This is referred to as “The Magic Hedge” as it attracts numerous migratory birds.

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Due to the high number of birds that fly through Montrose Point, it is an internationally recognized area for birdwatching. The best times to visit are in the spring and fall when the songbirds are migrating.

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Among the migratory songbirds you may see are warblers, thrushes, and purple martins. You may also be able to spot other fascinating birds like woodpeckers and owls.

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In 2021, a 0.3-mile accessible loop trail was installed by the Chicago Park District so that everyone can enjoy birdwatching. The trail leads visitors to some of the best birding locations within the sanctuary.

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If you enjoy watching birds migrate and listening to their singing, visit Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary this spring!

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Have you ever been birdwatching at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary in Lincoln Park? Where do you enjoy spotting migratory songbirds in Illinois? Let us know in the comments. For more information about Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, visit the Chicago Park District website.

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Peterwchen/Wikimedia Commons

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For additional birdwatching spots, you can visit these eight places in Illinois.

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