https://ebird.org/wi/hotspot/L168591
Habitat: Open Water, Urban Park Setting
Best Birds: this park sits on the northern end of the lake and offers a great vantage point for observing birds out on the lake. Thirty-two species of waterfowl have been observed, with such interesting sightings of; Brant (once), Greater White-fronted Goose, Surf, White-winged and Black Scoters, and Long-tailed Duck. Four species of grebes have been observed here, including Red-necked and Eared Grebes. A nice list of gulls has been seen from the park shores, with such interesting sightings of; Sabine ’s, Franklin’s, Iceland and Lesser Black-backed Gulls. A few Caspian and Common Terns are often found in the spring, and once an Arctic Tern was found in the fall. Outstanding numbers of Common Loon (75+) are possible in spring, and sometimes decent numbers of American White Pelicans put in an appearance.
Looking over towards Rib Mountain, there is an island that has a Great Blue Heron rookery. Searching through the rookery or nearby marsh beds have produced, Great, Snowy (twice) and Cattle Egrets (twice). Looking further to the west, a now leaning nesting platform has a pair of Herring Gulls on it. On cold spring days, look for hundreds of swallows out over the lake. Most will be Tree Swallows, but Barn, Cliff, Bank and Northern Rough-winged Swallows can also be mixed in as well. In late August, be on the lookout for Common Nighthawks as they feed on insects over the lake.
Directions: located at the very south end of South 3rd Avenue in Wausau, WI (road dead ends at the park), and next door to the Wausau Eagles Club – Aerie #251.
Site Address & Additional Information:
1800 S 3rd Ave., Wausau, WI 54401
A spotting scope is highly recommended for distant viewing over the lake.
Dan Belter
