Tuesday, January 1: New Year's Sunrise at Faville Grove Marsh

Trip Leaders: Dave Musolf & Roger Packard

Our annual New Year's Day sunrise field trip at Faville Grove Sanctuary will meet at Buddy's Place, the old farmstead at N7710 Hwy 89, at 6:55 am. If there is good snow and you have snowshoes, bring them along. Otherwise, sturdy boots for uneven terrain will do.

From I-94, take the Lake Mills/Waterloo exit and go north on Hwy 89 about 2.5 miles. The driveway is on the right immediately past North Shore Road, which intersects from the left.

We will meander through the prairie in the pre-dawn light to arrive at the marsh overlook in time for sunrise, and then spend the early morning exploring the Faville Grove Marsh and surrounding uplands.

Volunteer sanctuary managers David Musolf and Roger Packard will lead the trip.

Winter is a great time to get up close and personal with our beautiful Wisconsin wetlands; there is no better way to start the New Year!

Saturday, March 8: Early Spring Migrants

Trip Leader: Steve Thiessen

Steve Thiessen will lead this early morning field trip to Mud Lake in McFarland. Mud Lake is usually the first body of water to thaw in our area, so it attracts good concentrations of migrants.

We will meet at 7:00 a.m. at the south end of Lewis Lane in McFarland. Bring a scope if you have one. For more information, call Steve at (608)873-3323.

Friday, March 14: Night Owls

Trip Leaders: Al Shea & Aaron Stutz

Al Shea will lead this evening trip to call and listen for winter owls at various locations in Dane County. The trip will last three to four hours. There is a limit of 30 participants. To join this trip, call the MAS office at 255-BIRD (255-2473), leave your name, telephone number and how many people in your group (maximum 4 people per group). Preference will be given to those who have not previously been on one of his owl trips.

The first 30 people to register at the MAS office will be on the trip. A short waiting list will be kept in case of cancellations.

Registered participants will meet at 7:00 p.m. in the UW Arboretum Visitor Center for an introduction to owls by Al. Following the introduction, Al and other leaders will take participants on one or more hikes and a drive to Dane County areas to listen and look for owls. Dress warmly as standing and listening for owls can be cold this time of year. Riders are expected to share expenses with car drivers. After registering at the MAS office, call Al at (608)825-6232 if you have questions.

Saturday, March 22: Beginning Birding

Trip Leader: Al Holzhueter

Each spring, MAS sponsors many birding field trips and though the leaders attempt to help new birders, it is not always possible to answer all of their questions. Picnic Point will be the site for beginners to get their questions answered. This area, at the west end of the UW campus, offers a varied habitat and a good opportunity to observe a variety of waterfowl and small birds.

We will meet in the parking lot by the 1918 Marsh (across from the entrance to Picnic Point) at 8:00 a.m. Questions? Call Allen Holzhueter at (608) 238-0546.

Sunday, March 23: Spring Birding at Rose Lake

Trip Leader: Nolan Kollath

Come join us for a birding tour at Rose Lake State Natural Area, a hidden gem acquired by Jefferson County with assistance from Madison Audubon. For a description of Rose Lake and what we expect to see on this trip, click on Sanctuaries on the MAS web site. We hope to see many ducks, geese (including Greater White-fronted), cranes, and shorebirds. In addition to the lake, we will tour woodlot and prairie habitats.

Rose Lake is adjacent to Dorothy Carnes County Park, which is just west of Fort Atkinson off US Highway 12. The only entrance is well marked. Meet in the parking lot at 9 a.m. and stay as long as you like. If you have questions, e-mail Nolan Kollath or call 920-648-3842.

Saturday, March 29: Spring Migrants

Trip Leader: Pat Ready

Let the spring migration begin! This field trip focuses on birding the Lake Farms County Park area and nearby open water. Nine Springs and Lake Waubesa are possibilities for early shorebirds and ducks. On the trails we may find Yellow-rumped Warblers, Phoebes, thrushes, and a variety of sparrows. Bring a scope for viewing the lake.

This trip will be from 9:00-11:00 am. Meet at the #1 Shelter Lot on Libby Road. Take South Towne Rd. south from the Beltline to Moorland Rd. and turn left. Continue to Libby Rd. and turn left again. The shelter lot is a few blocks up on your left. Call Pat Ready at 608.873.1703 for more info.

Saturday, April 5: Spring Birds of Columbia County

Trip Leaders: Tony Kalenic & Carol Anderson

Tony Kalenic and Carol Anderson lead this car birding trip through northern Dane and southern Columbia counties to look for early spring migrants and late winter birds. We hope to see migrating swans, geese, and other water birds.

Meet to carpool at 8:00 am in the east end (near Century Av.) of the parking lot of the former Copp's supermarket at the intersection of Allen Blvd. and Century Av. in Middleton. Or you can join the group at 9:30 am at Goose Pond. Bring binoculars, a scope if you have one, and a snack, as the trip may last to early afternoon.

Call Tony and Carol at 608.249.8836 if you have questions.

Sunday, April 6: Wildlife Adventure Day at Goose Pond

Trip Leader: Dorothy Haines

Thursday, April 10: Frogs' Night Out

Rescheduled to Rain Date 4-17

Trip Leader: Bob Hay

Bring a sense of adventure on this trip as you look at the world from a different perspective--through sounds. Besides listening for a variety of frog calls, participants will learn about frog lifestyles and wetlands ecology.

Meet at the Mazomanie Wildlife Area at 6:45 pm. From Hwy. 14 in Mazomanie, drive north on County Hwy. Y for about 4 miles. Just before the highway bends to the east (right), turn left on Law's Drive. Travel on the access road about a quarter mile and turn left onto the first gravel road. Follow this about 1 1/2 miles until it dead-ends at a parking lot.

Bring a flashlight and dress for wet conditions. The trip will be cancelled if the daytime high temperature is below 45°F or in the event of very strong winds or heavy rain.

Call Bob Hay only if you have questions. 608.267.0849 (work) or 608.829.3123 (home).

Friday, April 11: Evening at Rose Lake - Dorothy Carnes Park

Trip Leaders: Mark & Sue Martin

Join Mark and Sue Foote-Martin for an evening watching waterfowl and listening to evening sounds at the 480 acre Rose Lake State Natural Area, a hidden gem acquired by Jefferson County with assistance from Madison Audubon Society.

The tour begins at the Radloff Lane shelter building at 6:30 pm. You can come early and bring a picnic. We will also visit another part of the property.

To find the park, from the intersection of Highways 26 and 12 in Fort Atkinson, go west 1.2 miles on Hwy. 12, then north on Radloff Lane about 0.6 miles, then east to a parking area.

For details contact Mark or Sue at goosep@chorus.net or 608.635.4160.

Saturday, April 12: Pheasant Crowing Count & Tour of Winter Cover at Goose Pond Sanctuary

Trip Leaders: Mark & Sue Martin

This year's pheasant crowing count, in cooperation with Columbia County Pheasants Forever, will tell how well the local pheasant population survived this winter's record snow and cold. Newcomers will be paired with others familiar with the property.

The count is scheduled to take place from 5:00 am to 7:00 am. Pre-registration is required. Contact Mark or Sue Foote-Martin at 608.635.4160 or goosep@chorus.net. Bad weather could postpone the count (calm is necessary to hear the birds), but even if the count is postponed, a tour of Goose Pond's wildlife food plot and cover unit will take place from 9:00 am to 11:00 am to learn about plantings to benefit wildlife.

Meet at W7503 Kampden Rd., south of Arlington.

Saturday, April 12: Beginning Birding

Trip Leader: Al Holzhueter

Picnic Point, at the west end of the UW campus, offers a varied habitat and a good opportunity for beginning birders to ask lots of questions and observe a variety of waterfowl and small birds.

Meet near the bus shelter by the parking lot at 7:30 am.

Questions? Call Allen Holtzhueter at 608.238.0546. This trip will be repeated on Saturday, April 26.

Sunday, April 13: Visit Faville Grove - Sanctuary West

Trip Leaders: David Musolf & Roger Packard

Resident managers David Musolf and Roger Packard will guide you through recessional glacial terrain to view its vast array of plant communitites. We expect to see Sandhill Cranes, various migratory waterfowl, and songbirds, hawks, grassland birds, and more. Meet at the west unit of the sanctuary at 7:00 am. The field trip will last 2-3 hours.

From Madison travel east on I-94 to the Lake Mills/Waterloo exit, then go 3 miles north on Hwy. 89 to the old farmstead at N7710 Hwy. 89.

For more information call David weekdays at 608.265.4562.

Thursday, April 17: Frogs' Night Out
(Rescheduled to Rain Date from 4-10)

Trip Leader: Bob Hay

Bring a sense of adventure on this trip as you look at the world from a different perspective--through sounds. Besides listening for a variety of frog calls, participants will learn about frog lifestyles and wetlands ecology.

Meet at the Mazomanie Wildlife Area at 6:45 pm. From Hwy. 14 in Mazomanie, drive north on County Hwy. Y for about 4 miles. Just before the highway bends to the east (right), turn left on Law's Drive. Travel on the access road about a quarter mile and turn left onto the first gravel road. Follow this about 1 1/2 miles until it dead-ends at a parking lot.

Bring a flashlight and dress for wet conditions. The trip will be cancelled if the daytime high temperature is below 45°F or in the event of very strong winds or heavy rain.

Call Bob Hay only if you have questions. 608.267.0849 (work) or 608.829.3123 (home).

Saturday, April 19: Abraham's Woods

Trip Leader: Janeen Laatsch

Abraham's Woods, a State Natural Area and one of the UW Arboretum's outlying areas, is one of the finest remnants of sugar maple forest left in southern Wisconsin. We will search for spring wildflowers and early migrant birds as we stroll through the forest of sugar maple, basswood, yellowbud hickory, hackberry, and other typical southern mesic forest trees. Time permitting, we will stop at nearby Oliver Prairie, a limestone "goat" prairie, in search of pasque flower fruits, bird-foot violets, prairie smoke, and other lime-prairie plants.

Carpool at 8:00 am from Cub Foods parking lot, near the intersection of the Beltline and Verona Rd. Or meet the group at Abe's Woods, just southwest of Albany in Green County. Contact Janeen for directions. We will return to Madison between noon and 1:00 pm. The trip will be cancelled only in the case of dangerous weather.

Contact trip leader Janeen Laatsch with any questions at janeen.laatsch@wisconsin.gov or 608.266.7714.

Sunday, April 20: Ice Age Trail (Once Around the Sink and Down the Drain)

Trip Leader: Gary Werner

We'll look for returning waterfowl and grassland birds at Shoveler's Sink, stroll through the gorge cut by glacial meltwater at the Cross Plains Ice Age National Scientific Reserve, and search for pasque flowers on the bluffs above. This 3-mile walk traces the contrasting landscape of glaciated and unglaciated (Driftless Area) terrain along the route of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Wear sturdy boots. Bring binoculars, water, and food and dress for the weather.

Meet at 9:00 am at the intersection of Cleveland Rd. and Old Sauk Pass. This is about 3/4 of a mile south of US Hwy. 14 in the Town of Cross Plains.

Contact Gary Werner of the Dane County Chapter, Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation, at 608.249.7870 with questions.

Sunday, April 20: Wildflowers of Walking Iron County Park

Trip Leader: Paul Ryan

No details at this time

Sunday, April 20: Jefferson/Dodge County Bird Walk

The inaugural walk for this new group will be led by experienced birders from 9:00 am to noon. Depending on where the best birds are, the trip will be to either Rock Lake (meet at Korth Park in the Elm Point parking lot on Elm Point Rd.) or at Horicon Marsh (meet at DNR Headquarters at the north end of Palmatory Dr. in Horicon).

To find out where we'll go, visit the new website www.theropod.org/walks.html and sign up to receive e-mail notices. The website also has maps and directions to each site. On the Friday before the walk, we'll also post the decision on which site we'll be exploring.

Everyone is welcome. Wear good walking shoes and bring binoculars if you have them.

Friday, April 25: Evening at Cherokee Marsh

Trip Leaders: Tony Kalenic & Levi Wood

We'll see cranes, observe the courtship flight of woodcock and snipe, and see several spring migrants. Meet at 6:30 pm at the Cherokee Marsh parking lot at the north end of Sherman Av. on Madison's north side. Waterproof footwear is recommended.

For questions call Levi at 608.277.7959,

Saturday, April 26: Beginning Birding

Trip Leader: Al Holzhueter

Picnic Point, at the west end of the UW campus, offers a varied habitat and a good opportunity for beginning birders to ask lots of questions and observe a variety of waterfowl and small birds.

Meet near the bus shelter by the parking lot at 7:30 am.

Questions? Call Allen Holtzhueter at 608.238.0546. This trip will be repeated on Saturday, April 12.

Saturday, April 26: Birding at Wyalusing State Park

Trip Leaders: Quentin Yoerger & Charles Naeseth

Quentin Yoerger and Charles Naeseth will lead this trip to Wyalusing State Park, which overlooks the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers. The Mississippi is a major migration route for numerous birds and the rugged bluffs make this breathtaking scenery a beautiful spot for a spring adventure. Observe hawks, warblers (including Yellow-throated), lots of other birds and a few spring wildflowers.

Bring a lunch as this trip will last until mid-afternoon. Carpool at 5:00 am from the Home Depot parking lot on Verona Rd. by Cub Foods (just south of the Beltline).

If you have questions contact Quentin at 608.882.6078 or harrierqman@gmail.com.

Sunday, April 27: Baraboo Hills Spring Wildflowers

Trip Leader: Mike Mossman

Visit Baxter's Hollow, walking one of the old wagon roads to "Burga's Slough" and the site of the murder at Shark's Hollow. Look and listen for birds such as Louisiana Waterthrush and spring migrants and admire the abundant wildflowers that have abided here since the days of more intensive human use and abuse. This 2-mile round-trip walk passes through forest, old field, and some wet areas, so wear appropriate footgear.

Meet at 9:00 am at the north end of Stone's Pocket Rd. 1/2 mile beyond The Nature Conservancy gate at the former Klondike campground at the dead-end of the gravel road. The trip lasts about 3 hours.

To get to Baxter's Hollow, take Hwy 12 eight miles north from Sauk City (or 7 miles south from Baraboo). Near the north end of the Badger Army Ammunition Plant, turn west on King's Corner Rd. and continue 1.2 miles to the intersection with Stone's Pocket Rd. Turn north and go 2 miles to the dead end.

For questions, contact Mike at 608.544.5501.

Thursday, May 1: Warbler Walk at Pheasant Branch

Trip Leaders: Mike McDowell & Kim Benton

Join us for the first of MAS's early morning warbler walks. We will be looking for migrating warblers as well as vireos, thrushes, tanagers, and whatever else flies by. Meet at 6:00 am and park at the deadend that leads up to Parisi Park near where Park Lawn St. meets Park St. in Middleton.

E-mail Mike or call 608.850.4122 if you have questions.

Sunday, May 4: Warbler Walk at Olin-Turville Park

Trip Leader: Charlotte Blotz

On a warbler walk at Turville Point you can expect to see warblers and other migrant songbirds along the western edge of Lake Monona. Meet at 6:00 am at Olin-Turville Park in the parking lot closer to the stop light on Olin Av. (near the woods). The trip will last about two hours.

Call Charlotte at 608.236.4224 if you have questions.

Sunday, May 4: Early Butterflies & Flowers of Spring Green Preserve

Trip Leaders: Rich Henderson & Ann Thering

Learn about the rare plant communities and butterflies at The Nature Conservancy's Spring Green Preserve. Plant communities include sand prairie, dry bluff prairie, black oak barrens, and oak woodlands. At this time, the Olympia Marble butterfly should be flying. Other possibilities include American Lady, Red Admiral, Juniper Hairstreak, and early Monarchs.

We will also look for migratory birds such as meadowlarks, Vesper, Grasshopper, and Lark Sparrows. There is always something interesting to see at this preserve, such as prickly pear cactus and a host of insects, including a variety of tiger beetles. Early spring flowers, such as buttercup, bird's-foot violet, and rock-cress should be in bloom.

Wear foot gear appropriate for walking among cacti. Bring close-focusing binoculars if you have them. Meet at the Spring Green Preserve parking lot at 10:00 am. From intersection of Hwys. 14 and 23 near Spring Green, go north on Hwy. 23 for 1/2 mile and turn right (east) on Jones Rd. After 3/4 of a mile, turn left (north) on the dirt access road to the preserve parking lot (it's just past fire number E5196A). Expect the trip to last until 1:00 pm.

Co-sponsors: The Prairie Enthusiasts and Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association. E-mail Rich or call 608.845.7065 (home). Or e-mail Ann or call 608.836.1097.

Weekday May TBA: Finding Frosted Elfins (butterflies)

Trip Leader: Scott Swengel

All five species of Wisconsin Elfins are tiny and elusive, but none rarer than the State-Threatened Frosted Elfin. On this short-notice field trip, we will travel to Jackson Co. where Scott Swengel, who has more than 20 years of experience monitoring butterflies in Wisconsin, will show participants the best ways to search for these butterflies.

Pre-registration Required. Those interested please e-mail Ann Thering to be placed on a Frosted Elfin field trip alert e-mail list. Only one or two days notice will be given, by e-mail. This all-day trip will be on one of the following weekdays: May 16, 19, 20, 21. The field trip will include at least 4 miles of walking. Other possible butterfly species include: Olympia Marble, Karner Blue, Gorgone Checkerspot, Cobweb Skipper, Dusted Skipper, other Elfins, etc.

Please bring close-focusing binoculars if you have them. (Several extra pairs of binoculars are available for use.) Also, bring a bag lunch and plenty of water. A hat, long pants and shirt sleeves are recommended, and sturdy hiking boots.

Meet in Jackson Co. at 10 am at the corner of West Bauer Rd. and Brockway Rd. From the intersection of I-94 and Hwy. 54 in Black River Falls, go east on Hwy. 54 approximately five miles to Brockway Rd. Turn right on Brockway and drive 2.5 miles south to West Bauer Rd. This area is about 2 1/2 hours northwest of Madison.

Tuesday, May 6: Warbler Walk at the Arboretum

Trip Leaders: John Feith & Jim Berkelman

This is one of a handful of annual early morning warbler walks to be held in the UW Arboretum, looking for migrating warblers as well as vireos, thrushes, tanagers, and whatever else flies by. Meet at 6:00 am in the Arboretum at the Wingra/Galistel Woods parking lot along Arboretum Dr. Enter the Arboretum from the east off Mills St. If you enter from the west (Seminole Hwy.) you will have to walk from the McKay Center parking area.

E-mail John or call 608.445.7375 if you have questions.

Thursday, May 8: Warbler Walk at the Arboretum

Trip Leader: Levi Wood

This is one of a handful of annual early morning warbler walks to be held in the UW Arboretum, looking for migrating warblers as well as vireos, thrushes, tanagers, and whatever else flies by. Meet at 6:00 am in the Arboretum at the Wingra/Galistel Woods parking lot along Arboretum Dr. Enter the Arboretum from the east off Mills St. If you enter from the west (Seminole Hwy.) you will have to walk from the McKay Center parking area.

Call Levi at 608.277.7959 if you have questions.

Friday, May 9: Birding Quarry Park

Trip Leader: Allen Fichen

We'll be on the lookout for a variety of spring migrants, primarily but not exclusively warblers, amidst the inner-city greenery of Quarry Park in Madison. Meet at 7:00 am at the base of Rocky Ledge La., a narrow dead-end street just off the intersection of Eugenia Av. and Stevens St. Park along those or other nearby neighborhood streets: there's no room for parking on Rocky Ledge itself.

Call Allen at 608.238.6816 if you have questions.

Friday, May 9: Evening Birding at Nine Springs

Trip Leaders: Steve Thiessen & Dan Doeppers

We will visit one of the more interesting and often overlooked birding spots in the Madison area to search for shorebirds, herons, cranes, terns, swallows, and waterfowl. This area typically has good mud flats, marsh and pond habitat. Meet at 6:30 pm at the E-Way parking lot along the Capitol City Bike Trail on Moorland Rd. Bring a scope if you have one. This trip may last until 9:00 pm or later.

Call Steve at 608.873.3323 if you have questions.

Saturday, May 10: Big Birding Day

Tuesday, May 13 & Thursday, May 15: Warbler Walk at Pheasant Branch

Trip Leaders May 13: Aaron Stutz & Mike McDowell

Trip Leaders May 15: Aaron Stutz & Jesse Peterson

Join us for one of MAS's early morning warbler walks. We'll look for migrating warblers as well as vireos, thrushes, tanagers and whatever else flies by. Meet at 6:00 am and park at the dead-end that leads up to Parisi Park near where Park Lawn St. meets Park St. in Middleton.

E-mail Aaron or call 608.294.9618 if you have questions.

Thursday, May 15: Evening at Token Creek

Trip Leader: Ed Saur

Though bordered by Hwy. 51 and I-90, Token Creek County Park's varied habitat holds species such as Baltimore Oriole, Indigo Bunting, Brown Thrasher, Eastern Bluebird, Warbling Vireo, and several species of flycatchers. A variety of migrant warblers are also possible. Trip leader Ed Saur has lived in northeast Dane County and visited the park frequently for more than 20 years. He atlased the park for the Wisconsin Breeding Bird Atlas Project for three years.

The trip begins at 6:30 pm. Token Creek Co. Park is in the northeast quadrant of the I-90/94 and Hwy. 51 interchange. It's about a 1/2 mile north on Hwy 51 from I-90/94 or 1/2 mile south on Hwy. 51 from Hwy. 19 and just east of the Pine Cone Restaurant truck stop. Brown signs mark the entrance. Wear shoes that will keep your feet dry, as some trails may be wet. Meet at the parking lot at the first building on the right.

E-mail Ed or call 608.846.4482 if you have questions.

Saturday, May 17: Birding Horicon Marsh

Trip Leader: Levi Wood

With 268 species of birds identified in the marsh, Horicon is one of the birding hot spots in Wisconsin. At this time of year, in addition to the nesting egrets, herons, and waterfowl, we hope to see plenty of warblers, vireos, thrushes, and other passerines. With luck we will hear and maybe even see some of the more elusive marsh birds, such as rails and wrens. It may be mid-afternoon by the time we head back to Madison, so bring a lunch. It is usually windy at Horicon.

To carpool, meet at the eastside Cub Food Store parking lot at 7:30 am. Reach Cub Foods via Hwy. 30 east to Hwy. 51. Go north on Hwy. 51 and take the first right (Nakoosa Tr.) and turn right again into the Cub Foods parking lot. Passengers are expected to help pay for gas.

Call Levi at 608.277.7959 if you have questions.

Saturday, May 17: Jefferson/Dodge County Bird Walk - NEW!

Trip Leader:

The second monthly walk for this new group will be led by experienced birders from 9:00 am to noon at Dorothy Carnes Park (Rose Lake) in Jefferson County near Fort Atkinson. Meet in the parking lot and bird the park trails. For details, please visit theropod.org where you can also sign up to receive e-mail notices and ensure you're alerted to any last minute changes due to weather or other circumstances. At the website you'll also find maps and information on how to get to the walk site.

Saturday & Sunday, May 17 & 18: Bog Butterflies of Northern Wisconsin

Trip Leader: Mike Reese

This joint trip of MAS and the Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association will concentrate on locating the five early season bog species at Riley Lake Wildlife Area in Price County. All were seen there last May. These include the Freija Fritillary, Frigga Fritillary, Red-disk Alpine, Jutta Arctic, and the Brown Elfin. They are all listed on the DNR web page of rare bog butterflies. Another dozen species of interest are possible on this trip.

Wear footgear appropriate for walking in the boggy habitat. Last year it was cool in the morning and ice was still on the water at 9:30 am so it could be a little chilly. Bring close-focusing binoculars, water, and a lunch. (Some extra binoculars are available but call the leader to reserve a pair.)

We will meet in Price County at the corner of Hwy. 70 and Hemlock Rd. at approximately 10:30 am on Saturday the 17th. (This spot is located 25 miles west of the intersection of Hwy. 70 and 51 in Minocqua. Alternatively, the spot is located 15 miles east of the intersection of Hwy 70 and 13 in Fifield.) The bog is approximately 240 miles from Madison. This trip will continue on Sunday for anyone staying over. (Call Mike for information on motels in Park Falls. Reserve early!)

Pre-registration is required for this trip to allow us to contact you concerning any bad weather cancellation. E-mail Mike or call 920.787.2341 (home) if you have questions.

Sunday, May 18: Birding at Picnic Point

Trip Leaders: Dan Doeppers & Peter Fissel

We anticipate a pleasant spring morning of birding on Picnic Point, one of Madison's birding hot spots. With lots of shoreline, open water and a variety of woods, wetlands, and open areas, Picnic Point is known for its diversity of birds. On the lake we will look for waterfowl, gulls, and terns. In the marshlands we'll be looking for blackbirds, wrens, and Song and Swamp Sparrows. In the woodlands we'll look for woodpeckers, thrushes, orioles, vireos, and early warblers. And in the fields and gardens we'll look for grassland sparrows.

Meet at 7:30 am at the circular 1918 Marsh parking lot across University Bay Dr. from Picnic Point, north of the UW hospital. The trip will last for 2-3 hours with an opportunity to extend longer. Co-sponsor: Friends of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve.

Call Dan Doeppers at 608.255.3013 if you have questions.

Sunday, May 18: Birding at Zeloski Marsh

Trip Leader: Nolan Kollath

The marsh has become a major stopover for shorebirds during migration. During 2007, 24 species were seen there. It is also a major stopover for waterfowl and wading birds. We will walk a mile and a half on gravel trails to reach excellent shorebird and waterfowl viewing areas. For a description of Zeloski Marsh see the webpage or the article by Nolan Kollath in the December 2007 CAWS.

Meet at the DNR parking lot at the end of Alley Rd. at 9:00 am (about 45 minutes from the west side of Madison). Alley Rd. is on Jefferson Co. S (west of Lake Mills), south of County B and north of County A. The Glacial Drumlin Trail is nearby and is excellent for warbler watching at this time of the year, so make a day of it if you can. Picnic facilities are at nearby Korth Park and Lake Mills is nearby for food.

E-mail Nolan or call 920.648.3842.

Saturday, May 24: Birding Glacial Drumlin Trail

Trip Leader: Nolan Kollath

We will use the Glacial Drumlin Trail to stay high and dry within the Lake Mills Wildlife Area as we pass through tamarack swamp, shrub-carr marsh, and lake habitats. The primary focus will be migrating warblers which tend to concentrate at our destination because it is good feeding habitat adjacent to a large lake. Warblers commonly seen at this time of year are Magnolia, Nashville, Wilson's, Tennessee, Chestnut-sided, Black-throated Green, Canada, Bay-breasted, and Northern Waterthrush. Less common species seen here include Blackburnian, Northern Parula, Blue-winged, Golden-winged, Pine, and Blackpoll. Resident birds include Yellow Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Veery, Swamp Sparrow, and Willow Flycatchers.

Meet at the Elm Point Rd. entrance to Korth Park at 9:00 am (45 minutes from the west side of Madison). Elm Point Rd. is on Jefferson County S (west of Lake Mills), south of County B and north of County A. Do not take the main Korth Park entrance. If you are late just follow the park trail to the Glacial Drumlin Trail and turn left to find us. Zeloski Marsh is nearby and offers excellent shorebird watching at this time of year, so make a day of it if you can. Picnic facilities are at Korth Park and Lake Mills is nearby for food.

E-mail Nolan or call 920.648.3842.

Saturday, May 24: Bird Banding Biocore Prairie Bird Observatory

Trip Leader: Mara McDonald

This easy spring field trip near Picnic Point runs from 8:00 am until noon. Come early or later in the morning, stay the full time or just a few minutes, wander around or become a lifelong volunteer. See how birds are netted, banded, measured and released, and discuss how important information is gathered for management and conservation purposes.

You can expect to see Indigo Buntings, Baltimore Orioles, American Goldfinches, possibly Wilson's Warbler, and a variety of other migrating birds in the hand. You can accompany bird banders to the nets and observe how they remove birds, band them, and measure the birds at the mobile station.

If you bring along food and drink, do not eat while handling birds as they may carry infectious agents. Bring insect repellent. You are free to stay as long as you wish, to wander the restored prairie, or to bird Picnic Point.

To get to the banding station, take Lake Mendota Dr. and park at Frautschi Point. Walk south through the woods, keeping Lake Mendota on your left, onto the Biocore Prairie. At the prairie, follow the trail to your right, then left. The banding station (aka: picnic table) is at the top of the prairie. Visitors not able to walk are asked to contact the trip leader ahead of time for permission to drive to the site.

E-mail Mara or call 608.274.2534 before 8:30 pm if you have questions.

Sunday, May 25: Birding at Baxter's Hollow

Trip Leader: Aaron Stutz

Baxter's Hollow is one of the most scenic areas in the Baraboo Hills. We will search for breeding species like Worm-eating Warbler, Mourning, Cerulean and Hooded Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, both cuckoos, and any migrants passing through. The trip will depart from the Copp's parking lot (6800 Century Av.) in Middleton at 6:30 am and may last for four hours.

E-mail Aaron or call 608.294.9618 if you have questions.

Thursday, May 29: Evening at Pheasant Branch

Trip Leader: Mike McDowell

Enjoy an evening warbler walk at Pheasant Branch Conservancy, Middleton, on the Dane County parcel. Migrating spring warblers, vireos, and thrushes will be the focus of our search, but we'll probably find other interesting birds and sights. To reach the Dane County parcel, drive 1 1/2 miles north on Pheasant Branch Rd. from Century Av. Go to the third conservancy parking lot on the right after you pass the Conservancy Condominiums. Meet at 6:00 pm.

E-mail Mike or call 608.850.4122 if you have questions.

Saturday, May 31: Janesville's Cook Arboretum

Trip Leader: Tom Klubertanz

Cook Arboretum, one of the premier birding spots in Rock County, offers a variety of habitats, including bottomland forest, riparian forest, scrub, field, and conifers. Several forest-interior species are found there, including nesting Hooded and Cerulean warblers, Wood Thrush, Ovenbird, Yellow-throated Vireo, and Tufted Titmouse. Warbler diversity is excellent, with over 20 species expected in late May. Relative rarities found at the site in past years include Kentucky Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, White-eyed Vireo, both cuckoos, and Bobolink. The trails are well-groomed, but the terrain is rugged. Be prepared for a good cardiovascular workout.

We will meet at 7:30 am at the parking lot at the end of the drive

From Madison: Take Hwy 14 south through Evansville. Before Janesville, take County Rd. H south (right) 1 mile to County Rd. A. Take County Rd. A east (left) about 3 miles. The arboretum is on the left side, at Austin Rd., 1 mile before Janesville. Travel time is approximately 40 minutes from the Madison Beltline.

From I-90 & through Janesville: Take I-90 to Hwy 26 (Milton Av.) interchange. Take Hwy 26 into Janesville to Hwy 14. Take Hwy 14 west (right) 5 miles to Hwy 51. Take Hwy 51 south (left) 4 miles to Memorial Dr. Take Memorial Dr. west (right) to the edge of town. Memorial Dr. becomes County Rd. A. The arboretum is on the right, just outside the city limits.

E-mail Tom or call 608.758.6553 if you have questions.

Sunday, June 1: Canoeing the Sugar River

Trip Leader: Quentin Yoerger

This is a unique opportunity to see the inside of one of the premier birding areas of southern Wisconsin. We will be canoeing the Sugar River, with leader Quentin Yoerger, in the Avon Bottoms State Wildlife area to find birds of the flood-plain forest. Expect to see Prothonotary Warblers, Yellow-billed Cuckoos, Red-shouldered Hawk and other unusual birds. This trip is for experienced canoeists as we will need to get around obstacles and so will be getting in and out of our canoes. (The water is relatively shallow.) Bring your own canoe, insect repellant, a lunch, water, and binoculars. The trip will take us across the border into Illinois and last about 5 hours. (Those who would like a shorter 2 hour trip can take out at the Nelson Road landing.)

Meet at the Beloit Newark Road boat landing at 7:30 am. Directions: From Madison take Hwy 14 south to the intersection with 138 near Oregon. Exit to the right and go west about 1/5 mile. Turn left (south) onto MM. Follow this road straight south as it becomes Hwy 104/County T, past Brodhead until Hwy. 81 is crossed, then continue south on T another 2 miles and turn left onto Beloit Newark Rd. Travel east for 1 mile and stop at the boat landing and parking lot. (Allow at least 45 minutes for travel.) A limited number of people and canoes can go on this trip so call the leader, Quentin Yoerger, at 608.882.6078 to reserve space or e-mail.

Sunday, June 1: Birding Governor Dodge State Park

Trip Leader: John Romano

Come join us when we bird in the 5,000 acre Governor Dodge State Park in the driftless area of southwest Wisconsin near Dodgeville. Bird species seen on some recent field trips to Governor Dodge include Bell's Vireo, Yellow-breasted Chat, Hooded Warbler, Acadian Flycatcher, Orchard Oriole, Henslow's and Clay-Colored Sparrow. Trip Leader John Romano has birded extensively here and conducted the Breeding Bird Atlas work in Governor Dodge.

Meet to carpool and leave at 6:00 am in front of the Home Depot located 1/4 mile south of the Beltline off Verona Rd. A state of Wisconsin (day) park sticker is necessary to enter the park. We should return around noon. Call John if you have questions: 608.238.6039.

Saturday, June 7: Birds of Devil's Lake & Baxter's Hollow

Trip Leaders: Chuck Heikkinen & Delia Unson

Join us for a morning of scouring the southern half of Devil's Lake State Park to look for nesting bird species including Veery, Pileated Woodpecker, Yellow-throated Vireo, Acadian Flycatcher, Scarlet Tanager, Blue-winged Warbler, plus possible Cerulean and Worm-eating Warblers. In all, we'll probably find 50-60 species. We will extend the trip to include Baxter's Hollow if time permits. The leaders, Chuck Heikkinen and Delia Unson, are intimately acquainted with this area, covering it for the Wisconsin Breeding Bird Atlas (they found 117 possible nesting species). Please note that a (day) state park sticker is required to park at Devil's Lake. Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring water and insect repellant. Since we will be there until about noon or even later, you might want to bring a sack lunch.

Meet at the Middleton Park & Ride to carpool and leave at 6:00 am (from Hwy. 12 at Middleton take Exit 249 (Parmenter St.) to the Park & Ride. OR, meet us at 6:45 am in the parking area for the boat landing on the southwest shore of Devil's Lake. If you have questions, call Chuck or Delia at 608.274.4043 or e-mail.

Thursday, June 12: Evening at Owen Park

Trip Leader: Russ Hefty

Leader Russ Hefty will show us the three new storm water and wildlife ponds, and discuss what wildlife is currently present there and what we might hope to attract in the future, such as Wood Ducks. Gourds have been put out to attract Purple Martins.

Meet at 6:30 in the Owen Park Parking Lot on the south side of 621 Old Sauk Rd. The trip will last until 8 p.m. or so. E-mail Russ or call 608.233.8513 only if you have a question about the trip.

Saturday, June 14: Bicycling Sugar River and Avon Bottoms

Trip Leaders: Rich & Amy Staffen

Join Rich & Amy Staffen on this approximately 15-mile bicycle excursion and experience plants and animals of wetland, grassland, and woodland habitats. We will bike on the Sugar River Trail through Albany State Wildlife Area, where all three habitat types will yield a nice variety of bird sightings. We will next hike Muralt Bluff Prairie State Natural Area (medium difficulty). Lastly, we will cool off with a hike (easy) in a luscious maple-basswood forest. The trip will last until 11:00 a.m. Bring PLENTY of drinking water, footwear that is appropriate for both biking and hiking, long light-weight pants or zip-offs, high socks to wear over your pants, insect repellant (Muralt has chiggers and ticks), binoculars, and sunscreen.

Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Sugar River Bike Trail parking lot in Albany at the trail’s intersection with STH 59 and CTH E. Call 608.238.0450 with questions or to confirm if weather is questionable.

Sunday, June 15: Tour of Badger Ordnance - CANCELLED

Thursday, June 19: Evening at Black Earth Prairie

Trip Leaders: Kathie & Tom Brock and Steve Richter

This is a joint trip with The Prairie Enthusiasts (TPE). We will tour a Nature Conservancy Preserve and State Natural Area called the Black Earth Rettenmund Prairie, recently donated to TPE. Our trip leaders will be Kathie and Tom Brock, along with Steve Richter, habitat manager for The Nature Conservancy. The extensive wood lilies at this site should be in peak bloom. We will also look for other flowering plants, as well as birds. Learn about the history and management of this prairie! The trip will last about 2 hours.

Meet at 6:30 p.m. at Black Earth Rettenmund Prairie. From Madison go west on Hwy 14 to Black Earth. At the traffic light (Shoe Box corner) turn left on County F. After Hwy F turns west go for 1-1/4 mile. Turn right on Fesenfeld Road to the prairie entrance, about 300 yards. Park on right side of the road. If you have questions about the trip, call Kathie or Tom at 608.238.5050 or e-mail.

Saturday, June 21: Grassland Birding in Western Dane & Eastern Iowa Counties

Trip Leaders: Steve Richter & Dave Sample

Explore The Nature Conservancy’s Thomson Memorial Prairie Preserve, looking and listening for grassland birds and prairie plants. Learn to identify by sight and sound grassland birds such as Bobolinks, Upland Sandpipers, Western Meadowlarks, Dickcissels, and many species of prairie sparrows. Thomson Prairie is part of the Military Ridge Prairie Heritage Area, a 50,000-acre landscape area of regional significance for grassland bird and prairie species conservation. Be prepared for a long hike, and bring binoculars for bird and butterfly viewing. This is a joint trip with The Prairie Enthusiasts and the Nature Conservancy. The trip will last from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. Leaders are Steve Richter & Dave Sample 608.257.1011.

Meet at 8:00 a.m. at the TNC’s Thomson’s Prairie Preserve parking lot. Directions: Take Co. Hwy F south from Blue Mounds. From the intersection of F and US Hwy 18/151, take F south for 2 miles to the small designated parking area for the TNC preserve (on the right, west side, of the road). (CAUTION: at about 1 mile south from 18/151, F turns to the right while Z goes straight).

Thursday, June 26: Prairie Remnants of the Waunakee Area - CANCELLED

Saturday, June 28: Butterflies of Cherokee Marsh

Trip Leader: Kathy Kirk

On this morning walk we’ll observe and learn about butterflies, those small but exquisitely beautiful creatures that dance about our ankles in summer. Conservation Biologist Kathy Kirk will lead this 2 hour walk at Cherokee Marsh on the northeast side of Madison. We will observe a variety of butterflies as they take nectar from wildflowers, and learn about their identification, behavior, and lifestyle.

Bring binoculars if you have them — close-focusing ones work best. It’s best to wear long pants and a hat for protection from the sun.

Meet at 10:00 a.m. On the north side of Madison take Northport Drive (Highway 113) then turn north on Sherman Ave. Meet at the Cherokee Marsh parking lot at the north end of Sherman Ave. Call Kathy only if you have a question about the trip, at (608) 442-1642.

Sunday, June 29: Ice Age Tour of Prairies

Trip Leaders: Gary Werner & Steve Richter

Come and enjoy a 2 hour, 2.5 mile walk along a new section of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail in the Driftless Area. The walk will follow a narrow, steep-sided valley and visit two prairies — one planted by Ice Age Trail volunteers, the other a restored remnant “goat prairie”. We will also enjoy oak savanna and oak woodland restorations, early summer prairie flowers in bloom, and woodland birds along the way.

We’ll learn about the natural features of this 400 acre property with a very active restoration schedule of wetland, stream, prairie and oak opening projects. We will end with a dramatic overview of the Black Earth Valley. Bring water and food to enjoy a picnic lunch with a view!

Meet at 9:00 a.m. From Madison take Hwy 14 through Cross Plains then turn north (right) on Cty Hwy KP. Go .3 mile then turn west (left) onto Scheele Road. Travel to the gravel driveway on the right. Note Ice Age Trail trailhead sign on the right. Park along the gate, but watch out for ditch. Call Gary Werner 608.249.7870 to let him know you are coming or if you have a question about the trip.

Saturday, July 5: Madison Butterfly Count

Trip Leader: Edgar Spalding

NEW AREA! This is our 18th annual count which will be conducted with the Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association. Each summer butterfly enthusiasts all over North America participate in some 483 censuses of butterfly species. Each count is similar to a Christmas Bird Count. These censuses help to monitor the health of our butterfly populations and the results are published in an annual report. Last year on the Madison census 13 people in 3 groups found 643 butterflies of 42 species.

If you can identify butterflies, or can help spot butterflies, or just want to see and learn about butterflies, join us on this 2 hour count/field trip. Bring binoculars, the closer they focus the better. Dress for protection from the heat and sun; a hat is recommended. The North American Butterfly Association (NABA) requires a $3.00 fee from each participant to cover publishing costs.

Meet at 9:00 a.m. at the parking lot across from the entrance to Picnic Point on the UW campus. If you have a question about the butterfly count call Edgar at 608.265.5294 or 608.831.0616.

Saturday, July 12: Flowers, Butterflies, & Birds of Schurch-Thomson Prairie

Trip Leaders: Rich Henderson and Ann Thering

We will visit The Prairie Enthusiasts’ newest preserve, Schurch-Thomson Prairie, and the adjacent privately owned Underwood Prairie. The latter is closed to the public, so this is a great opportunity to see it up close. These and adjacent properties form a complex of remnant prairie and CRP grasslands that are rich with grassland birds. Summer flowers will be in bloom, and we hope to see the rare Regal Fritillary and other butterflies. Last year we found five species of fritillaries.

Be prepared for a long hike and bring binoculars for butterfly viewing (the closer they can focus the better). We will have a few extra binoculars. This is a joint trip with The Prairie Enthusiasts and Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association. The trip will last until noon.

Meet at 9:00 a.m. From Hwy 151 at Blue Mounds take F south (note: F makes a right angle turn). After 5 miles turn right onto Reilly Road. Go to the end and park by the barn. Call Rich at 608.845.7065 only If you have a question about the trip.

Sunday, July 13: Tour of Faville Grove Sanctuary (East)

Trip Leader: David Musolf & Roger Packard

This land includes restored prairie and wetlands. The trip will last two to three hours and provide an excellent opportunity to see the prairie in its summer colors. In addition to prairie flowers and grasses, we will watch for a variety of birds including Bobolink, Dickcissel, Eastern Meadowlark, among others.

Meet at the Sanctuary east unit at 7:00 a.m. From I-94, at Lake Mills, go north on Hwy 89 1-3/4 miles. Turn right on G and go 1-1/2 miles, turning right onto Prairie Lane. Park in the pull off on the right-hand side. If you have any questions, call David Musolf weekdays at 608.265.4562.

Saturday, July 19: Birds, Butterflies and Dragonflies of Picnic Point Area

Trip Leader: Edgar Spalding

Join us in a search for pretty things with wings! If the weather cooperates, we may expect to see interesting bird species and at least half a dozen species of dragonflies and twice as many different butterflies.

The walking route will include the edge of Mendota’s University Bay, the woods of Picnic Point, and the Biocore Prairie. Bring your binoculars — the closer they focus the better. This 2 hour trip is co-sponsored by Friends of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve and Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association.

Meet at 10:00 a.m. at the Picnic Point Parking Lot on the UW campus. If you have a question about the trip call Edgar Spalding at 608. 265.5294 or 608.831.0616.

Sunday, July 20: Prairies at their Peak

Trip Leaders: Tom & Kathie Brock

We will visit Pleasant Valley Conservancy, a fine prairie/oak savanna area in western Dane County. It has been under restoration for about 11 years and is now permanently preserved as a state natural area. Because of the extensive brush control and burn program which has been carried out this year, the site should be quite attractive. Redheaded Woodpeckers are usually nesting.

The hike will involve some hill climbing, so wear sturdy shoes and long pants. This is a joint trip with The Prairie Enthusiasts. At the end of the 3 hour trip, light refreshments will be served at the small cabin/shack.

Meet at 1:00 pm. From Black Earth go west on F about 4 miles. Turn left onto Pleasant Valley Rd. and stop at fire # 4609. Park on the right side of the road. Call Tom and Kathie Brock at 608.238.5050 if you have a question about the trip.

Saturday, July 26: Scuppernong Valley Prairie and Butterflies

Trip Leaders: Rich Henderson and Karl & Dorothy Legler

Come and explore over 1,000 acres of lowland prairie habitat in various stages of recovery. Located in Waukesha County this Wisconsin DNR owned land has the potential of becoming one of the largest and richest prairie areas in the state. The vegetation across this level landscape is a mosaic of high quality remnant prairie, long-abandoned old-fields reverting back to prairie, and everything in between. Three state natural areas are currently designated within the area. The DNR’s efforts in recent years of extensive clearing of trees and brush and reintroducing fire are resulting in the reclamation of large areas of prairie.

Many prairie flowers and a variety of butterflies abound. Some late season grassland birds may also still be active in the area as well. This is a joint trip with Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association and The Prairie Enthusiasts. Be prepared for much walking and some wet ground. Bring food and water, sun screen, hat, insect repellent, and binoculars (the closer they focus the better — we will have a few extra pairs).

Directions: Meet at the Scuppernong Prairie State Natural Area parking lot on County N at 10:00 a.m. From Eagle (in SW Waukesha Co.) take US 59 west for 1 mile to County N. Turn right (north) on to N and go for about 1.5 miles. Look for a Scuppernong Prairie sign on the right. The gravel parking lot is on the left. Those wishing to car pool from Madison, should meet (8:30 a.m.) at the Dutch Mill Park and Ride on Broadway, east of Stoughton Rd, on Madison’s SE side. The trip will last until 3:00 pm. Call Rich at 608.845.7065 if you have questions.

Sunday, August 3: Canoe Cherokee Marsh Ecological Restoration

Trip Leader: Russ Hefty

Learn about the fascinating history and restoration story of Cherokee Marsh, the wetland at the mouth of Lake Mendota. When a dam at Tenney Park was created in 1849, and again in 1900, the Cherokee area was flooded with seven feet of water. The peat layer “delaminated” and rose to the surface forming a floating bog. But erosion over the decades has destroyed more than one square mile of wetland. Russ Hefty will show us how the shoreline of this floating bog is being stabilized by plantings to form a vegetation breakwater and silt fence.

This should be peak bloom for the thousands of American Lotus Water Lilies used as a buffer! We hope to see a number of Great Egrets and other wetland birds.

Bring your canoe or kayak and meet at 8:30 a.m. at the School Road boat landing. Take School Road north from Northport Drive until the road starts turning east. Instead turn left onto the gravel road and proceed to the pier and parking lot. You will see the sign for Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park. Contact Russ at 608.233.8513 or rhefty@ci.madison.wi.us only if you have a question about the trip.

Saturday, August 9: Butterflies of the Avoca/Blue River Area

Trip Leader: Mike Reese

This trip will highlight several areas in the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway, including Avoca Prairie and Savanna State Natural Area in Iowa County and the Muscoda and Blue River units in Grant County. We expect to see late butterflies and several southern immigrants.

The trip may last until 5 p.m. A hat and long pants are recommended. Bring a lunch and binoculars (the closer they focus the better). A few extra binoculars are available. This is a joint trip with the Southern Wisconsin Butterfly Association.

Meet at 10:30 a.m. Allow 1-1/4 hour travel time from Madison. Take Hwy 14 east to Lone Rock, south on Hwy 130 then turn right on Hwy 133. Go west about 5.5 miles, turn right on Hay Rd, and drive north to the parking lot just before the creek. Call Mike at 920.787.2341 if you have a question about the trip.