https://ebird.org/hotspot/L2851336
Habitat: Hemlock-Hardwood Forest, Northern Hardwood Forest, Mixed Coniferous Forest, Marsh, and Alder Swamp.
Best Birds: hiking east of the parking lot will lead you to several trail intersections where you can venture off to explore this mixed age forest. Many forest birds like Broad-winged Hawk, Ruffed Grouse, both Hermit and Wood Thrush, Indigo Bunting, Scarlet Tanager, up to 17 species of warblers and more can be found here during the summer breeding season. Spring and fall migration will offer more birds that breed farther north. Winter is the slow season, and the access road leading to the parking lot is not plowed.
Around the intersection of trails Y and T on the west side of the property boundary is a great area to find Hooded Warbler. A few males have been present in this area for several years now. Also, in past years, Cerulean Warbler was present in this same area, and may still around somewhere.
Another trail to explore is an area known as Marsh Meadow, which is the S trail. Along this trail loop you can see and hear Alder Flycatcher, Black-billed Cuckoo, American Bittern, both Golden-winged and Blue-winged Warbler, Common Yellowthroat and more.
Directions: Twelve miles southwest of Wausau. Take Hollywood Road south of County Highway N for 2.3 miles to County Forest 702 Road. Go east on County Forest 702 Road to the parking lot (44.868867, -89.737186) for the west side access into this county forest.
Site Address & Additional Information:
144701 County Forest 702 Rd, Marathon City, WI
http://wisconsintrailguide.com/cross-country-skiing/pdf/map-nine-mile.pdf
Dan Belter
