https://ebird.org/wi/hotspot/L8075500
Habitat: Open Water, Beaches and Mudflats.
Best Birds: Scan this large body of water during migration for waterfowl, gulls, and shorebirds (if the reservoir level is down). During the summer, American White Pelican and Double-crested Cormorant can often be seen loafing along the north shoreline. If water levels are down, large sandbars often host migrant shorebirds like Black-bellied and American Golden Plover, and rarely American Avocet. American Pipit also favors the sandy shorelines. This section of the reservoir also hosts large numbers of gulls that roost here in the evening, from spring until fall (up to 2000+ birds at times), and are often joined by Bonaparte’s Gull in migration. In the fall, large rafts of Ruddy Duck (1000+) are occasionally found, and are joined by other diver ducks including both White-winged and Surf Scoter. Horned Grebe can be very common at certain times, occasionally a Red-necked Grebe will be found.
Directions: 32 miles SW of Wausau/12 miles southwest of Mosinee. The best location to observe this section of the reservoir is from within the Big Eau Pleine County Park, along the west shoreline trail, located on the reservoir side of the west unit campgrounds (44.743784, -89.853843). Another viewing location is on the south side of the reservoir at a public, unimproved boat landing located along Whitecap Cove (formerly known as Paradise Lane, 44.738039, -89.869397).
Site Address & Additional Information:
A spotting scope is highly recommended for distant viewing. Ticks shouldn’t be problem if you stay away from vegetation, mosquitoes however can be a nusiance. Outdoor restrooms are available at the county park.
List of Parks (marathon.wi.us)
Dan Belter
