Wildlife is returning to Illinois. Bison have been making a comeback. Wolves have been on the prowl. Mountain lions have been seen and slain (I’m not talking about the cougars at your local establishments). The coyote population has been thriving (hide your ankle biters!). Bobcat season has opened again (Much to the chagrin of animal lovers who have been purchasing Bobcat hunting permits just to see them go unfilled). Armadillos are on the loose. Eagles have been flocking to the Super Bowl, I mean the Illinois River to feast on the open winter waters (Hopefully, they eat a boat load of Asian Carp). In the words of Slim Shady, “Guess who’s back? Back again! The wildlife’s back. Tell a friend!”
In all this excitement, its easy to overlook Illinois’ most prolific and sublime wildlife experience. Birds! Illinois is a paradise for birds. And what do birds attract? Exceptionally skilled “birders” who have perfected the art of spotting even the most elusive species (with the help of a listserv or facebook page that notifies them of bird locations). I confess I’m a novice birder at best. Please don’t expect any snowy owls from this sparrow. However, I have been privileged to visit Heron County Park of the Vermillion County Conservation District. This place is so chock full of local and migratory birds that even this amateur bagged his first bufflehead duck. And all I ever see is mallards! Hidden by the glory of its larger neighbor, Kennekuk County Park, Heron County Park sparkles with many neat features. A climbing tower and boardwalk provide unique perspectives of Lake Vermillion. 
A short 1/2 mile trail winds past the Heron Rookery. During my last stroll on this trail, we even saw two bald eagles! Additional opportunities abound to observe interesting waterfowl and playful aquatic mammals like the river otter and beaver. So, pack a lunch, dust off your old binoculars and find yourself lucky to have found Heron County Park. The charismatic and colossal species may be returning to Illinois, but don’t forget to enjoy the exceptional variety and beauty of their smaller neighbors, birds! Let the birds of Heron County Park remind you of a lesson learned from diamonds. Diamonds may be small, but they are still awe inspiring.
Visit: Heron County Park; 22296-A Henning Rd, Danville, IL 61834
http://www.vccd.org/giheron.htm
Consider: If you are like me, exercise is in your life to make room for ice cream. After you burn a few calories exploring Heron County Park, don’t miss the Custard Cup in Danville. Your sweet tooth will thank me.
