1001 Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary

I was recently treated to one of Mother Nature's most amazing places---right here in the city of Chicago, the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary.  There were so many people there to enjoy a beautiful day, and lots of very expensive cameras to photograph the birds.  It was a very peaceful place and I hope to visit again soon.  Here is how the website describes the sanctuary. 

"Located in Lincoln Park, Montrose Point is a 15-acre bird sanctuary that attracts tens of thousands of migratory birds of more than 300 different species, that stop here for rest, food and shelter. Within the natural area is “The Magic Hedge”, a 150 yard stretch of shrubs and several trees, so-called because it attracts a curiously high number of migratory birds. Important migrants include most species of Warblers seen in the Chicago area, Thrushes, Sparrows, Purple Martins, Woodpeckers and many others. Nesters include Common Yellowthroats, Catbirds, Red-winged Blackbirds, Mourning Doves, and Brown Thrashers. It is no wonder “The Magic Hedge” has become an internationally recognized birding area.

“The Magic Hedge” did not just appear on its own. During the 1950’s through 1970’s, the Army leased land at Montrose and built two barracks. Honeysuckle was planted to screen them from public view. Long after the Army left, the honeysuckle remained and formed the basic feature of “The Magic Hedge." During the 1980’s and early 1990’s birding organizations and the Park District began cooperating to enhance bird-friendly plantings around “The Magic Hedge”. These plantings included blackhaw and nannyberry viburnum, serviceberry, chokeberry, fragrant sumac, and other shrubs. "

https://www.dailypaintworks.com/fineart/diane-campion/1001--montrose-point-bird-sanctuary/840727