https://ebird.org/wi/hotspot/L1559948
Habitat: Marsh, Open Water, Willow Thicket, Sedge Meadow
Best Birds: Near the parking lot search the area for woodland birds before continuing westward to the metal pump house building, about one-quarter mile away. At the pump house take the pathway either west or north (or south just before you reach the pump house) and explore these areas for as far as you wish. In summer this entire area host good numbers of waterfowl, Sandhill Crane, American Bittern, Black Tern, and more. When water levels are low, the variety of migrant shorebirds may include; Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Pectoral Sandpiper, Long-billed Dowitcher (rare), Dunlin and more. Also be on the lookout for Least Bittern, Common Gallinule (occasionally seen), Great Egret, Northern Harrier, Willow Flycatcher, Marsh Wren, Le Conte’s Sparrow, and Yellow-headed Blackbird to name a few.
Some of the more rare birds that have been found throughout this area include; Whimbrel, Red Knot, Little Blue Heron, “Plegadis” Ibis, and Nelson’s Sparrow.
Directions: Located approximately 15 miles southwest of Mosinee, WI. When the gate is opened up for the summer/fall season (usually around late April), turn onto the gravel surface entrance road off of Hwy S, across from the old WDNR Headquarters building (44.697623, -89.865390) and continue northwest to the parking lot, 44.704928, -89.875936. The pump house is ¼ mile further northwest, 44.706147, -89.880874.
Site Address & Additional Information:
201517 County Hwy S Milladore, WI
Clean restrooms are available at the Stanton W. Mead Education & Visitor Center. If the visitor center is closed, outdoor restrooms are available approximately 200 yards west of the visitor center (next to Hwy S).
Ticks are possible, expect mosquitoes in summer.
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Lands/WildlifeAreas/mead.html
https://www.stevenspointarea.com/listing/george-w-mead-wildlife-area/1011/
Dan Belter
