I took my first longer-distance field trip since the stay-at-home order was declared in March, biking up to Watersmeet Woods in Northbrook where I had the whole forest preserve to myself. I birded and poked around looking at plants but also spent time just sitting and taking it all in. I remember the intensity of a particular red-winged blackbird’s song and related to its strong desire to connect with another member of its species.
I also began regular visits to riverside sites in the city where native plant restorations are underway. I had quite the day at LaBagh Woods on the North Branch on May 15. It seemed like every tree was loaded with warblers — I’ve never had a day of birding like it.
I continued on with pen and watercolor as my journaling media of choice.
