June 28, 2026: The Summer Birds of Kleinstuck
Another monthly hike at Kleinstuck Preserve is in the books! The focus of our July hike was geared towards the birds that breed in and around the preserve. Our early summer hike was delightful, and birders of all ages and experience levels went home with a stronger sense of connection to nature, as well as identification and location tips for a handful of exciting species!
Four species were selected by Seth as iconic summer birds of Kleinstuck, and time was spent familiarizing ourselves to them. We talked about their size and shape, color and patterning, behavior, and vocalizations. The birds of the day were the Green Heron, Eastern Kingbird, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, and Black-billed Cuckoo. We also learned various fun facts about these species.
Did you know that the Yellow-billed Cuckoo is one of the only bird species able to digest the hairy spines of Spongy Moth caterpillars (formerly Gypsy Moth)? Local habitat benefits from this species by feeding on this invasive caterpillar, which defoliate trees leaving them vulnerable to diseases and other pests.
Our pre-hike discussion on breeding birds of Kleinstuck.
Seth showing off the Yellow-billed Cuckoo.
With senses attuned to the birds, we headed outside to begin our hike. As always, we took pause in the parking lot to listen to our surroundings and the birds around us. We heard an Eastern Wood Pewee, American Robin, and Black-capped Chickadee.
Once inside the preserve, we took a nice stroll around the swamp, stopping at various points along the way. We tried for Green Heron at the metal bench (often seen here), but struck out. We did however hear an incessant Gray Catbird singing from the reeds. Further down the trail we spotted a Common Grackle high in a dead tree. We all got good looks at him through the scope. We noted that this particular individual was a juvenile, given the dark iris. Adult Common Grackles have striking yellow irises. One hiker jokingly commented that they have “spooky eyes!”
Getting good looks at the juvenile Common Grackle.
We continued strolling, enjoying each other’s company, engaging in light conversation, and musing over other birdly delights. Other notable species we encountered along the way were the Song Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, and Great-crested Flycatcher.
Undoubtedly summer birding offers its own challenges. Typically birding is done mostly by ear, since getting good views is difficult with the amount of foliage present. We still found ways to stay engaged, enjoy the beautiful morning, and start the day off on the right foot.
Searching Kleinstuck for birds.
Overlooking the swamp at Kleinstuck.
Thank you to everyone who showed up. It’s mornings like these that fill me up.
You can view the full checklist of birds we identified on our hike here.
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Birds with Seth is an official Vortex Optics dealer. You will not find a better price online, as these are sold at MAP (minimum advertised pricing). If you do find these binoculars listed for a lesser price, please contact me at seth@birdswithseth.com so that we adjust pricing accordingly.
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If you’re curious about what animals can teach you, or are seeking support from the natural world, this deck is for you!
Animal Medicine Cards have helped guide my journey, providing powerful insight and perspective around some of life’s questions. This deck has found its way into the hearts and hands of many, guiding the way to healing the body, emotions, mind, and spirit, and providing insight into and understand of one's unique purpose in life.
This unique and powerful divination system draws upon ancient wisdom and tradition to teach the healing medicine of animals through the lens of sacred Native American traditions. These teachings have been handed down from many elders in the Choctaw, Lakota, Seneca, Aztec, Yaqui, Cheyenne, Cherokee, Iroquois, and Mayan traditions.
This 52-card deck includes a 246 guidebook.
Created by Jamie Sams and David Carson, with illustrations by Angela C. Werneke.
A must-have for birders of all ages! Take this indispensable birding aid on your next birdwatching or hiking trip for easy reference in the field.
Written and illustrated by David Allen Sibley, this guide details 69 species of birds commonly found in the Midwest, including songbirds, raptors, woodpeckers, and more.
This field guide is very durable, waterproof, and measures 4”x9”.
These unique journals feature the Black-capped Chickadee and their delightful “chicka-dee-dee-dee-dee” song that we so often associate with the approaching spring.
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Measures 5.5” x 3.5”
