Eastern Ashland Waterfront
Habitat: Open Water, Beach, Urban, Residential
Best Birds: Common Tern nest straight out from the dock at Bayview Park. Depending on the water levels, check old pilings at Bayview Park for gulls, terns, or even shorebirds. A variety of waterfowl are possible including American Black Duck. In fall look for Cackling Goose, Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Black Scoter, and Long-tailed Duck. Good concentrations of Horned Grebe and Common Loon occur in migration, with Red-necked Grebe possible, and Pacific Loon seen on the bay most falls. This is a good vantage for Bonaparte’s Gull, though flocks are often distant. There is potential for active morning flights of passerines. Fruit trees near 32nd Ave E have attracted Bohemian Waxwing. Shrubs along the lakefront trail can hold sparrows including Harris’s. Just south of the 32nd Ave E lookout, the Industrial Park often has gulls; Iceland Gull and Glaucous Gull are possible. Snowy Owls like to sit on the breakwall, especially in fall.
Directions: Bayview Park is on the east side of Ashland, off Hwy 2 (46.60217 -90.86382). A lakefront walking path runs in either direction from Bayview Park. Other vantages include Tomczak Park (46.60863 -90.84884; be mindful of boats launching) and the end of 32nd Ave E (46.61087 -90.84173), which is not a public park, just a spot to scan the lake from the road. Opposite 32nd Ave E and to the south is the industrial park — be mindful of the businesses and large trucks hauling.
Site Address & Additional Information:
1543 Lake Shore Dr E, Ashland, WI 54806
Nick Anich
