Rollins Savanna 2011

Rollins Savanna in Lake County (IL) is home to some of the most majestic pre-settlement oaks in northern Illinois.  The mosaic of mature oak-hickory woods, expansive grassland, and numerous wetlands attracts a number of species.  The photo above shows (left to right) a male Blue-winged Teal, a Sandhill Crane, a female Gadwall, Mute Swan, and a male Green-winged Teal.  Sandhill Cranes are a State Threatened species.  The presence of three other species highlight the important habitat that Rollins Savanna provides. 

Common Moorhen

The best bird of the day was Common Moorhen, a new Illinois bird for me.  This State Threatened species was once common through much of the state, but has declined in recent decades as quality wetland habitat also declined.  Common Moorhen is a rare breeder in the Chicago Wilderness.  The red face-shield distinguishes it from the very abundant American Coot.  It was very exciting to see this guy swimming in the open, since they can be secretive in the reeds, as shown in the lower right photo.     

Bobolink

Another delight to see and hear was Bobolink, a grassland species of Priority 1 concern in the Chicago Wilderness.  Male Boblinks establish their territory with an etheral bubbling song that sounds like a 1960s space computer.  His plummage is a striking black and white with a yellow cap.  Bobolinks are also under pressure in wintering grounds in South America.

Yellow-headed Blackbird

The Yellow-headed Blackbird is a rare breeder in the Chicago Wilderness, and is a State Endangered species. They prefer high-water marshes with dense cattails, and are sensitive to changes in water levels due to "development."  The long-term trend for YHBL shows a 4% annual decrease.  The males have a bright yellow head and a raucous voice that sounds like a chainsaw!