Viewing the Plovers at Montrose

The nest is barely visible to the naked eye.

UPDATE - 6/21/020

Monty & Rose have moved their chicks to the fluddle, which is located in the public beach area near the sand dunes, and next to where the volley ball courts used to be located. This is just south of the main beach building, along the path.

Currently, lake front beaches in Chicago are closed. The trail has just reopened.

The Plovers and their chicks are very difficult to see from the trail without binoculars. Volunteer Monitors are stationed on the trail near the fluddle, and as the chicks roam, monitors will adjust their locations to best monitor and protect the chicks who are extremely vulnerable to predators and human disturbances.

If you choose to attempt to see the Plovers from the trail, please follow these guidelines to ensure the safety of the Plovers, the Monitors and yourself:

• Follow all CDC guidelines for Covid-19, and stay at least 6 feet away from other people, including monitors, even if you are wearing a mask.

• Wear a mask, covering your nose - the trail near the nest is hardly 6 feet wide, and this will ensure the safety of our monitors and you.

• Stay off the concrete wall that surrounds the nesting area.

• Keep dogs leashed.

• Stay out of all marked and fenced off areas.

• If you see a Piping Plover adult or chick in a public area, give them space - at least 20 feet - so they don’t get anxious and separated from each other.

Check with the Chicago Park District about the current status of Montrose Beach and trail, before you visit, as it could change at any moment.