Chequamegon NF--Clam Lake area (Ashland Co.), Ashland County, WI, US - eBird Hotspot
Habitat: Cedar Swamp, Hardwood Swamp, Conifer Bog, Mixed Coniferous Forest, Northern Hardwood Forest, Hemlock-Hardwood Forest, Willow, Alder or Dogwood Swamp, Open Water
Best Birds: The rich mosaic of habitats present ensures that the bird life is equally varied. Some of the more widespread species include Sharp-shinned and Broad-winged Hawk, Ruffed Grouse, Wild Turkey, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Hermit and Wood Thrush, White-throated Sparrow, and Nashville, Yellow-rumped and Black-throated Green Warbler. Look for Blue-headed Vireo, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Northern Parula, Blackburnian Warbler and Pine Siskin in areas with mature conifers, Magnolia Warbler in dense young Balsam Fir and White Spruce stands, and Cape May Warbler in mature Balsam Fir and White Spruce. Low, wet brushy areas may have Winter Wren, Northern Waterthrush and Canada Warbler.
A nice Tamarack/Black Spruce bog is conveniently located along FR 164 just east of County Hwy GG. Those with an abundance of time, energy, insect repellent and optimism can explore the bog in search of Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Lincoln’s Sparrow, and Palm Warbler, as well as the ever more elusive Spruce Grouse, Black-backed Woodpecker, Canada Jay, and Boreal Chickadee.
Winter birding can be slow here unless there is an irruption of winter finches. In good flight years there may be decent numbers of Pine Grosbeak, Red and White-winged Crossbill, Common Redpoll, and Pine Siskin. Both crossbills sometimes hang around to nest. Evening Grosbeak is possible in summer, but the local population has declined considerably in recent years.
Directions: 98 miles SE of Superior/approximately six miles southeast of Clam Lake centered at the junction of Forest Roads (FR) 168 and 170 (46.11053, -90.79003).
Site Address and Additional Information:
FR168/FR170, 46.11053, -90.79003
FR164/GG, 46.03693, -90.84182
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest - Great Divide District (usda.gov)
Black Creek Bog State Natural Area - Wisconsin DNR
Keith Merkel
