Pleasant Valley Conservation Area (Saturday 7:00 – 11:30 a.m.)

Located in western McHenry County, the area is a large park comprised of prairie, wetland, and open woodland.  This diversity of habitat has made it a favorite birding location.  We will be on the lookout for migrants like yellow-bellied flycatcher, gray-cheeked thrush and blackpoll warbler.  We will also search for breeding birds like red-headed woodpecker, sedge wren, grasshopper sparrow and bobolink.  All walking will be done on well-maintained trails without many difficulties.  If there is recent rain, some trails could be muddy. Expect at least two miles of hiking at a leisurely, birder’s pace. Maximum group size is 15.  Cost of trip includes lunch, program and guided hikes at Volo Bog.