AN ABUNDANCE OF WILDLIFE
B
irding enthusiast Beau Schaefer says the Chain O’ Lakes region is an exceptional place to enjoy birding.
“There is a huge variety of birds,” he says, adding the treelined trails and marshy areas make great places to spot them. Recently birders have spotted some species that aren’t local to the area, including the limpkin, which is commonly found in Florida but was spotted in the region about a year ago.
For those who enjoy fishing, birding and exploring the outdoors, the region is host to a wide variety of species
Photo provided by Chain O’ Lakes State Park Stables
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
In addition to the park’s programming and bird watching activities, visitors can check out groups like the McHenry County Audubon Society, which has bird walks and events. According to the McHenry County Audubon Society’s latest birding tallies, there are approximately 239 species of birds that call Chain O’ Lakes State Park home.
One of the advantages to the region is the ability to see wildlife from different perspectives, from walking along the trails to kayaking the waters — and even viewing from horseback. Within the park is Chain O’ Lakes State Park Stables, where visitors can arrange horse and pony rides. Rides vary from 45 minutes up to two hours, and each riding group has its own ranger to assist and lead.
Stable owner Becky Wesinger has been riding horses at the park’s stables since she was a girl; today, she continues to ride and help others experience the beauty. “It’s the best way to see the park,” Wesinger says. “You can see so much wildlife too.” Wesinger notes the horse trails go places that vehicles can’t travel, providing a better view of wildlife including foxes, birds and coyotes. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely ride through the park or chat up the rangers about the park and horses.
Inside the park visitors can spot small mammals like beavers, skunks, foxes, chipmunks and rabbits. Schaefer says he even caught a glimpse of a weasel during a visit to the area. Visitors can also try to catch sight of deer or coyotes. The Chain is home to bluegill, largemouth bass, walleye, crappie, muskie, northern pike, bullhead, catfish, and yellow and white bass. A visit to this area is also sure to include sightings of butterflies, dragonflies and other insects, as well as a chance to see a turtle sunning itself on the rocks or hear the sounds of peeping frogs and toads.
While Chain O’ Lakes State Park is a central part of the region, there are more lakes, forest preserves and parks one can explore, each with their own attributes, from marshes to woods to prairies — and all connected by the scenic waterways. 10 Chain O’ Lakes Recreation Guide
