Michelle and I road out to Lakefield on rail-trail. Wildflowers dominated by Queen-Anne’s-Lace and Tall Sweet Clover. Also fairly common and blooming were Viper Buglos, Common Milkweed (only a few still in flower), Black-eyed Susan, Joe-Pye-Weed, Swamp Milkweed, White Water Lily and Early Goldenrod. Tartarian Honeysuckles, already laden with ripe red or orange berries were common as well.
Dominant birds were Eastern Kingbird, Gray Catbird, American Goldfinch, Cedar Waxwing and Song Sparrow. Saw two Black Terns at Lakefield Marsh. Counted about 15 Monarchs over the afternoon.
Location: Rail-Trail from Jackson Park to Lakefield and back
Observer: Drew Monkman
