Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Yes, There are Deer in Deer Grove Woods

The Forest Preserve District of Cook County was established on November 30, 1914, the first meeting of commissioners was February 11, 1915, and on June 25, 1916, the first lands were obtained -- a 500 acre component of what is now known as Deer Grove Forest Preserve. For 19 years, I lived but 3 miles away and hiked and mountain biked in the preserve extensively. I've moved farther away now, but I still return to hike and bike several times a year. Today was one of those times as I biked for 75 minutes on the 11 miles of mountain bike trails.

Some claim the preserve should be renamed "Deer-less" Woods, but I've often seen deer here, and today was special with 3 sightings, the last of which was 10 deer, including 8 bucks with racks...


If you click to enlarge the photo below, you might be able to count all 7 deer that populate this shot...



A special day indeed! Also, compliments to the preserve -- the habitat rehabilitation is opening up the views and making for not only a healthier forest, but also a very scenic one -- and allowing for more spotting of wildlife.

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