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frodosdream t1_j256gw8 wrote

>Monk parakeets have established perches in Miami, New York and other cities. But the colony underneath the Skyway, where the birds build their nests among the concrete and steel supports several stories off the ground, is one of the more improbable spots they scratch out a living.

Somehow the image of escaped tropical birds surviving and even thriving in the sub-zero conditions of Chicago in winter gives me hope. Hope they continue to thrive!

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grendel_x86 t1_j25fsn1 wrote

On the Northside, there are a bunch in Cell Towers. The last group I saw was along the North Branch. There were a few starting south of Devon (West Rodgers Park), and going north up through Lincolnwood.

Not sure how they do it. Their nests are kinda big.

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newtoreddir t1_j27agjq wrote

Do the towers emit some warmth from the machinery?

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grendel_x86 t1_j27pvop wrote

Probably (really have no idea). I'm guessing dozens of birds in a nest huddled is a big part.

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TheGrandExquisitor t1_j2ax5k0 wrote

Only parrot that builds nests out of sticks like that. The rest are cavity dwellers.

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