Tweet-Tweet! CRASH!

By vouchey in Miscellaneous on Jun 14, 2004 12:39PM

A bizarre, but important South Side natural landmark crashed to the ground on Saturday, the giant Ash full of South American Monk Parakeets in Harold Washington Park. Animal Control, Chicago Police, and Park District employees rushed to save the birds' nests, placing them in near-by trees.

The tree was one of two that dozens of parakeets took over in the late 70's. The first tree, on 54th street, was taken down by ComEd in 1997. But the tweets of the dozens of parakeets continued to be heard from huge nests nestled in the dying tree on 53rd and South Shore Drive.

The parakeets were a favorite of late Mayor Harold Washington, who, while mayor, lived in a condo overlooking the trees. The birds later inspired the creation of the Harold Washington Memorial Parakeet Defense Trust Fund, dedicated to the preservation of the birds.

As a side note, Chicagoist has lots of fond memories of the birds, since we played under the trees and birds as a child. Despite fact that the parakeets were an invading species, most native Hyde Parkers tend to speak of the birds with love. We hope the birds will stay in the park, and continue to brighten our days in Harold Washington Park.