Aaron Boone tipped me off to a shorebird spot in South Beloit that should be checked regularly this spring.  It is the South Beloit Park.  Yes, the same one that is closed to the public because it is contaminated with bacteria–e. coli to be specific, and there is a chain link fence across the driveway entrance with a sign warning that anyone who enters is subject to being arrested.

There is good news!  You don’t have to enter the park and incur the wrath of the authorities!  Park on the side street and walk back to the south along the recreation path that parallels Dorr Road.  There are openings in the vegetation where you can set up your telescope and scan the mudflats below for shorebirds.  A telescope is essential, however, so, if you don’t have one, go there with someone who does. 

Today, I saw Solitary, Spotted, Least (22), Semipalmated(4), and Pectoral Sandpipers, plus 18 Dunlin, several Lesser Yellowlegs and, of course, a few Killdeer.  The mud flats are fairly extensive, and could have pipits as well, but not today. 

From Rockford, take IL 251 N to Prairie Hill Road.  Go West on Prairie Hill to Dorr Road, turn right, and, after passing by Lake Victoria (on the right) you will come to the park.  You can’t miss it because the entrance has the chain link fence across it.  Turn left on the street opposite the entrance, park there, and walk back.  It is less than 200 feet to the first opening in the vegetation.  A better opening is only 100″ or so further  to the south.