This annual field trip started in 1999, and offers the best opportunities in the state to see Parasitic Jaegers and other uncommon to rare birds – and really, anything is possible at that time of year on Wisconsin Point! Often spotted are Lesser Black-backed, Bonaparte’s and Franklin’s Gulls, but we often see Sabine’s Gulls as well.  Other rare gulls have included Laughing, Iceland and Glaucous-winged Gulls, as well as Black-legged Kittiwake.  Long-tailed and Pomarine Jaegers are rare, but have been spotted on several occasions. Shorebirds are irregular, but Sanderling, American Golden-Plover, Red Knot, Ruddy Turnstone and others sandpiper are possible.  Raptors like Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin, Peregrine Falcon and Northern Harrier are often observed, and the trees along the Point often host a nice variety of warblers, sparrows (including Harris’s), vireos, thrushes, etc.

We typically begin gathering by around 6:30 or 7:00 am each morning at the first beach parking area (Lot #1) along Moccasin Mike Road, which leads to Wisconsin Point. Weather plays an integral part in birding this area, as does the wind direction. Prepare for the possibility of all types of conditions on Lake Superior – anything from warm, sunny weather to wet and/or cold conditions. Participants may want to bring old bread, buns, etc. for “chumming” for gulls. If you are staying in a motel, make sure you book your reservation early!  Some campgrounds are available in the Superior area.