Episode 19: The Lure of Giant City Park: Birds, Blooms, and Hidden Gems

Feb 26

Join Rebecca and Bernie as they discover the treasures of Giant City Park, from its diverse trails and hidden wintertime beauty to the innovative Gnome Roam initiative that draws visitors during the colder months. We chat with Jen, the Natural Resources Coordinator, and Vicki, President of the Southern Illinois Audubon Society. Experience the magic of birding with tips for beginners, seasonal bird counts, and learn about other nature programming offered at this unique park. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or someone who loves the great outdoors, this episode has something for everyone.

00:00 Welcome to Part Time Parkers

00:25 Season Two Kickoff at Lake Point State Park

01:05 Introduction to Giant City Park

01:13 Meet the Guests: Jen and Vicki

01:57 Exploring Giant City State Park

06:11 Wintertime Magic at Giant City

10:57 Birding Adventures and Tips

15:11 Vicki's Birding Journey

19:40 Finding a Birding Community

20:37 Learning Through Christmas Bird Counts

21:25 The Importance of Citizen Science

22:29 Bird Identification Tips

24:11 Journey to Becoming a Naturalist

28:03 The Wonders of Giant City State Park

28:51 Getting Started with Birding

31:47 Exploring Giant City State Park Events

34:43 Seasonal Highlights and Unique Flora

37:07 Conclusion and Farewell

** Part-time Parkers will be kicking off Season 2 at Fins Feathers and Flowers. We hope you can join us in all the fun! More info here: https://www.alapark.com/parks/lakepoint-state-park/fins-feathers-and-flowers-weekend

https://dnr.illinois.gov/parks/park.giantcity.html

http://www.siaudubon.org/

https://www.audubon.org/community-science/christmas-bird-count

https://www.sibleyguides.com/

https://www.harpercollins.com/search?q=Peterson+Field+Guides

https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/

https://www.facebook.com/friendsofgiantcity/

@ giantcitystatepark

https://www.part-time-parkers.com/episodes/episode-02-lakepointstatepark

parttimeparkers@gmail.com

@parttimeparkers

https://www.part-time-parkers.com/