Forest Preserves of Cook County 2026 Spring Brochure

Full Moon Animal Adventure* Search for signs of wildlife in the moonlight. Ages 7 & up. Tuesday, Mar 3 • 6:30 pm Crabtree History Table -Drop-in Learn about the early days of Crabtree Nature Center. Thursday, Mar 5 • 10 am–Noon Women Environmentalists Celebrate women past and present who have contributed to biology, conservation, environmental justice and more with presentations, activities and exhibits. Women’s History Program Saturday, Mar 7 • 1 pm Self-guided Trail Exhibition Saturday, Mar 7–Sunday, Mar 29 9 am–5 pm Restoration Workday* Remove invasive species with us. Ages 8 & up w/ adult. High schoolers may earn service hours. Equipment provided. Sunday, Mar 8 • 9:30 am–Noon Crabtree History Walk Join us as we walk and learn about the early days of Crabtree Nature Center. Tuesday, Mar 17 • 10 am Restore the Night* Remove invasive shrubs, then join our season wrap-up celebration! Equipment provided. Ages 8 & up w/ adult. High schoolers may earn service hours. Thursday, Mar 19 • 5–7:30 pm Muddy Paws Walk Search the muddy trails to identify which animals are using them. Saturday, Mar 21 • 1 pm Spring Break Boredom Busters* Enjoy jam-packed fun exploring nature, playing games, creating art and spending time outdoors. Adult supervision required. Monday, Mar 23–Wednesday, Mar 25 Ages 5–8 • 10–11:30 am Ages 8–12 • 1–2:30 pm Animal Enrichment Studio Create new items for our ambassador animals then watch how enrichment is used as an important part of their care. Saturday, Mar 28 • 1 pm Microsafari Part 2 Our microscopic exploration of life in the waters of Crabtree continues. Sunday, Mar 29 • 1 pm APRIL Poet Tree Enjoy poetry on the trails to celebrate National Poetry Month. Submit your own stanza for our Poet Tree. Wednesday, Apr 1–Thursday, Apr 30 9am–5 pm Battle of the Birds* Learn about the semi-finalists in our 2nd annual Tournament of Birds and advocate for your favorites. Ages 16 & up. Thursday, Apr 2 • 6:30 pm Prime Real Estate Learn about stewardship of cavity nesting birds, then observe tree swallows compete for their homes. Saturday, Apr 4 • 1 pm *Registration required. For more information or registration, call 847.381.6592 Continued on page 16. CRABTREE NORTHWEST 15