Nature Happenings

  • Project FeederWatch continues, www.birds.cornell.edu/pfw
  • An increasing number of Bald Eagles can be seen on small lakes and rivers.
  • Snowy Owls may visit barren corn and bean fields for winter feeding grounds. Immature Female Snowy Owl
  • Watch at dusk for Short-eared Owls hunting marsh lands.
  • There are frequent irruptions of Snowy Owls in Illinois during the winter months.
  • Cardinals flocking; they're usually the first and last birds to be seen at feeders.
  • Skunk Cabbage is the first flower of the year to bloom.
  • During late January or early February, Great Horned Owls will be sitting on their eggs.
  • Late in the month, as days lengthen, Tufted Titmice and cardinals begin to sing.
  • Start planning your butterfly and bird gardens this month.
  • Now through late March is a difficult time for birds; providing food and an open source of water is important.
  • Aldo Leopold's (Father of Wildlife Conservation) birthday Jan. 11
  • Quadrantid Meteor Shower early in the month. See up to 60 falling meteors per hour!