Field Trips

Upcoming Field Trips

We offer a variety of field trips, with opportunities for all types of birders to participate and enjoy each season.  There is special support for new birders on some trips. Participants are welcome to contact the trip leader if they have any questions.

NOTE: For trips with a participant limit, registration with the trip leader is required. In those cases, you are NOT registered until you receive a confirmation from the trip leader.

Field Trips will observe a few guidelines to ensure that our birding is safe and comfortable for all.

  • Field trips are open to nonmembers.
  • Anyone not feeling well should stay home.
  • Attendees of DBC field trips and other events who are under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
  • All field trip attendees should be aware of and follow the ABA Code of Birding Ethics.

Note: When possible last-minute changes or cancellation of field trips will be posted on this page.

Warrenville Grove Forest Preserve, Warrenville

Registration with the leader is required. Limit 8 participants. Registration for nonmembers opens on November 1.
New birders welcome! We'll explore a nice slice of the DuPage River, plus some woods, fields, and creeks as autumn and migration fade. Afterwards we have the option of discussing our findings and winter plans over hot drinks down the street at Evolet Eve/Cora Coffee. Meet at 3S345 Batavia Road, Warrenville. It's a very small parking lot, but we can work out carpooling from a nearby spot if necessary.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/f5uZxX7RPq77t8aB8
Leader: Steve Constantelos, steve.constantelos@gmail.com

Lyman Woods, Downers Grove

Registration with the leader is required. Limit 15 participants. Registration for nonmembers opens on November 1.
We will be looking for late migrants and remaining residents. Lyman's trails are almost always muddy regardless of the weather. If rain occurs ahead of the trip, expect areas with standing water. Be prepared with appropriate footwear, and insect repellent is recommended. Meet at the parking lot on 31st Street.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/zqLwGq84LumFFyCG7
Leader: Matt Crisler, crislermj@gmail.com

Carl and Myrna Nygren Wetland Preserve, Rockton

Registration with the leader is required. Limit 10 participants. Registration for nonmembers opens on November 1.
We will be meeting at the parking lot off Rockton Rd. We will start at the observation deck, overlooking the wetlands. The preserve is a noted way station for migrating Sandhill Cranes, who overnight here in abundance. Afterwards we will walk the 2.5 mile loop around the preserve. Besides the cranes, we will be looking for several other species of waterfowl. On my last trip there, American Black Ducks, Ruddy Ducks, Tundra Swans, Ring-necked Ducks, Green-winged Teals, and American Coots were all spotted. Shrike and Rough Winged Hawks are often spotted in the area as well.
Rockton is about a 90 minute drive from Dupage county. We can discuss carpooling if anyone is interested.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/axZkpUxGBEy7eNNz5
Leader: Len Edgin, ledgin72@gmail.com

Dean Nature Sanctuary, Oak Brook

Registration with the leader is required. Limit 12 participants. Registration for nonmembers opens on November 1.
This is a mile walk at a charming nature sanctuary along Salt Creek. Let's visit before it becomes an ice rink! New birders welcome. We’ll peek into the creek and then continue to see who's staying with us for the winter in pond, savanna, wetland, and woods. Trails are basically level and are grass/dirt, with some gravel/pavement. Meet at the parking lot on 115 Canterberry Lane, Oak Brook.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/F93jCgHbqXjggU6B7
Leader: Steve Constantelos, steve.constantelos@gmail.com

Helpful Information

Please remember these guidelines:

  • NOTE: For trips with a participant limit, registration with the trip leader is required. In those cases, you are NOT registered until you receive a confirmation from the trip leader.
  • Field trips are open to nonmembers.
  • Anyone not feeling well should not attend.
  • Attendees of DBC field trips and other events who are under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
  • All field trip attendees should be aware of and follow the ABA Code of Birding Ethics.

Field trip participants

Participants, please remember that the weather can be variable, and trails can be muddy, slippery, or even snow covered, so dress accordingly. Also, depending on weather, bring protection for biting insects, ticks, sun, rain, or winter cold. We expect everyone to enjoy birding in a safe manner. Visitors are always welcome! We do not charge fees for birding trips.

Field trip coordinators

Stephanie Cullerton and Elena Nelson manage the DBC calendar of trips. Contact them at fieldtripsdbc@gmail.com if you have questions or if you would like to lead a trip. Leaders do not have to be birding experts, just familiar with the location.

TOP BANNER: Photo by Bonnie Graham.

Membership
Membership
Scroll to Top