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!