There are some reports that the monk parakeets have begun to come out this season on the South Side. Monk parakeets are originally from South America and came here as pets. They have established feral populations around the country, esp. in Illinois and Florida. They are most well known in Hyde Park, though they've been spotted in Wolf Lake on the far South Side. If you'd like to go and see these creatures

on the North Side or South Side, here are some instructions: Hyde Park: "It appears to me that these are the same parrots that inhabit Hyde Park, with several large nests, and a notable one on 53rd street, about 100 yards west of the lake. Take the lakefront path to 51st St, cross Lake Shore Drive, then ride south through the park 2 blocks, near the tennis courts. Further south in Jackson park (57th St - 63rd St) you can enjoy the lagoons and Wooded Island, along a major bird migration path (now's a great time to see the migration)." North Side (Margate Park): Margate Park is roughly 5000 N. Marine Dr. Take the Lake Front path north to Argyle and head under the ugly slab of concrete to the park. The nests were in the northern point near Foster last year. Wolf Lake: The Wolf Lake parrots are back in town. Their large hanging nests can be seen from the south end of the park by the ranger's residence (130th St. & Ave. O). Parrots can be seen flying around and perched in nearby trees. The low-stress way to get there from downtown via bike is to take the Lakefront Path to its southern terminus at South Shore Drive. Continue south on South Shore Drive following the "U.S. 41 South" signs to 95th/Ewing/Ave. "L". Three restaurants are on the corners; The Mexican Inn, Agua Blanca, and Skyway Hotdogs. Take Ave. "L" south to 104th St. Take 104th St. east to the Burnham Greenway. Take the Burnham Greenway south to the spur that goes to the William H. Powers Conservation Area. Follow the park road south through the woods and around Wolf Lake until you pass the ranger's residence. You will see the large parrot nests there. Alternately you could take the Red Line to 69th St. and then transfer to a #30 bus and get dropped off in front of the park. (Thanks to Bob Matter for compiling the reports!)