Nate and Evan sit down and chat with Chicago native Nathan Goldberg and discuss his recent record breaking 2020 Illinois Big Year. Also, Evan serenades Nathan with a bird love song that he wrote.

First, Nate gives us a rundown on the recent Piatt County Christmas Bird Count, tally, and the Eurasian Tree Sparrow that was seen, including ID tips. Nathan talks about some of the birds his team recently saw on his Cook County Big Day competition with Isoo O'brien.

What goes into planning a Big Year? What are some of the strategies? What are some of the highs and lows? How many birds did you end up seeing?

Nathan Goldberg answers these and many more in our discussion. In addition, Nathan shares some of his other birding trips outside of Illinois for 2020.

Sit back and enjoy this terrific discussion with the new Illinois Big Year record holder.

Happy listening and Happy Birding.

Biography

Nathan Goldberg has been a serious birder and list-keeper for over a decade. Born and raised in Chicago, he has explored the Lower 48 states extensively, is a guide for Red Hill Birding, and works for an association management company that helps run non-profits.