Monty The Piping Plover Of Montrose Beach Died In Chicago: Reports

CHICAGO — Monty the Piping Plover has died, authorities said.

Monty and his mate, Rose, became Montrose Beach celebrities three years ago when they became the first Great Lakes piping plovers to nest in Chicago for generations. Monty and Rose returned to raise chicks two years in a row.

Block Club Chicago reported a birder spotted Monty breathing heavily at Montrose Beach, take a few steps and collapse. A Chicago Park District official confirmed Monty's death.

“It is with great sadness that we confirm the passing of Monty, one of the Montrose Beach Piping Plovers,” a Chicago Park District official told the Tribune.

Monty returned to Chicago this year without Rose, who birdwatchers say hasn't arrived in Chicago yet.