Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park - North Unit
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L2846310
Habitat: 946 acres of Native and Restored Grassland, Oak Savanna, Oak-Hickory Forest, Marsh, Sedge Meadow, and Willow, Alder or Dogwood Swamp. The west boundary is Open Water (Upper Yahara River).
Best Birds: The River Trail and Lu’s Pond trail border marsh and sedge meadow with Sandhill Crane, Virginia Rail, Sora, Sedge and Marsh Wren, and Swamp Sparrow. The Lu's Pond Trail is a good area for observing spring courtship of American Woodcock and Wilson's Snipe. Scan the river for Bald Eagle, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, other swallow species, and waterfowl in spring migration.
In the grasslands along the Lu’s Pond trail and the north loop of the Overlook Trail, listen for Henslow’s Sparrow, Field Sparrow, and other sparrow species. The Oak-Hickory Forest along the Overlook Trail has Pileated Woodpecker, Yellow-throated Vireo, Brown Creeper, Scarlet Tanager, and migrating wood-warblers. The forest edges host Black-billed and Yellow-billed Cuckoo.
In the east wetlands, look for Rough-winged Hawk and Northern Shrike in winter, and Northern Harrier year-round.
Directions: Far northside of Madison. Follow N. Sherman Ave north to the parking area at the end of the gravel road. 43.16691, -89.36429
Site Address & Additional Information:
6098 N. Sherman Ave., Madison WI
https://www.cityofmadison.com/parks/find-a-park/park.cfm?id=1182
https://www.cityofmadison.com/parks/documents/masterplans/cherokeenorthtrailmap.pdf
Jan Axelson and Timothy Baker
