Park District expands habitat at Montrose Beach ahead of expected return of plovers Monty and Rose

The expansion follows a monthslong effort from birders and conservationists to expand the dune habitat, and backing from Ald. James Cappleman, 46th. About 3 acres will be added to the existing natural area, including where Monty and Rose first nested and where they’ve foraged. The dunes — which include rare wetland panne habitat — host native plants, migrating birds and other threatened species.