About

The INHS Bird Collection comprises more than 3,000 specimens representing over 200 species. Much of the collection dates from the 1950s through the 1970s and is primarily from Illinois. Although relatively small, it includes rare species such as Sprague’s Pipit (Anthus spragueii) and a substantial series of over 200 Gray-cheeked Thrushes (Catharus minimus), a common migrant. Many specimens were collected at the bases of television towers across the state, documenting comparative bird mortality at these structures.

The collection also includes an impressive egg series assembled between the late 1880s and early 1930s by Arthur Blocher and later donated to INHS. This includes hundreds of egg sets representing species from Illinois and throughout the United States, along with a modest nest collection.

In addition, the University of Illinois collection, now managed by INHS, complements these holdings with specimens from outside the country. This includes excellent examples of diverse groups as penguins (Spheniscidae), woodcreepers (Dendrocolaptidae), hoatzin (Opisthocomidae), and kiwis (Apterygidae).