We begin our birding near the lower beach parking area of Harrington Beach State Park, initially checking the trees and lawn area for sparrows, warblers, kinglets, Hermit Thrushes, finches, etc. After an hour or so, the group will take a hike on some of the park’s roads or trails to look for additional species, and check the lake for waterfowl, gulls, loons and grebes. This park lies adjacent to Lake Michigan, which can help serve as a channel for migrants, including raptors, which can fly over in good numbers on days when migration conditions are conducive – usually meaning strong northwest or west winds. Please note that there is a state park entrance fee. 

Later in the morning (time permitting) we may also venture south to Forest Beach Migratory Preserve and check for additional species at that site. Often our visit to that site coincides with their Big Sit event, and we may hike down to their hawk watch platform to assist them in the count.

To register, check back here closer to the trip date. Please note that pre-registration on the WSO website is now required for field trip attendees, which includes the signing of waivers. Trip details will be emailed to registrants (including the link to a Google map) a few days prior to that event.