TESTIMONIALS

“Winkeler’s Wings and Wildlife Tour is a hidden gem!

This is a must-see for casual visitors as well as serious nature enthusiasts alike. Les’ knowledge of the local wildlife is extensive and beyond compare. Observe many of the different habitats and ecosystems in the region among the natural beauty of Southern Illinois. A truly unique and enjoyable experience.

I had a great time! You’ll want to check this out! ”

-Jason M.

Photos by Jason McCain

James Borsch Photography

“Walked with Lester June 27. He was very nice and knowledgeable, and knew where certain birds might be. He was accommodating and said he was flexible on what to search for. My wife and I have never been to the Garden of the Gods area, so we let him lead the way. saw many new birds for my list. He was even kind enough to suggest somewhere to eat when we finished. A nice bonus was he had no prior commitments, so our walk was extended beyond the contracted time. Worth every dollar, even if it ended at the 6 hours as advertised. Highly recommend his tour.”

-James B.

“This was a GREAT day in the woods! Thanks to Les for bringing me on this trip. A full morning of chasing birds was a marvelous way to spend a Monday!”

-Joe B.

Photos by Joe Bauer

James Borsch Photography

“We had a wonderful time with Les. If you have ever read his articles, you know that he is an expert when it comes to local birds and wildlife, but he is also a fantastic guide, and down-to-earth guy who has the patience to spend the day with a couple of beginning birders like us. It is no exaggeration to say that we saw 30+ species of birds on our trip. Beware…Les does not give up. If he wants to see a Prothonotary Warbler, then he is going to see a Prothonotary Warbler, and a little bit of rain will not stop him….we highly recommend!”

-Richard and Amy W.

“Thank you Les, it was a beautiful morning and I think we both captured some stunning images, let’s do it again!”

–  Steve Arens

“I have lived in southern Illinois all of my life. Les showed me more wild life and wild life areas that I had heard of but never visited until I made the trip with him. I will be forever grateful to him for sharing his knowledge and experiences with me.” – Harold Bardo

Available Tours

6 HRS | 1 PERSON $250, 2-3 PPL $300

Songbirds of the Sahara Woods National Wildlife Area

  • Camera rental available upon request.
  • Binoculars are provided at no cost.
  • Your photos available online at no charge.
6 HRS | 1 PERSON $250, 2-3 PPL $300

Waterfowl + Wading Birds Mermet Lake and Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge

  • Camera rental available upon request.
  • Binoculars are provided at no cost.
  • Your photos available online at no charge.
6 HRS | 1 PERSON $250, 2-3 PPL $300

Eagles and Ducks Horseshoe Lake Wildlife Area

  • Camera rental available upon request.
  • Binoculars are provided at no cost.
  • Your photos available online at no charge.

“ I highly, highly recommend this wildlife tour.
Wes is friendly, accomodating, and really knows his stuff. ”