https://ebird.org/wi/hotspot/L168593
Habitat: Open Water, Northern Hardwood Forest along shoreline, Non-Native Grassland at the airport property.
Best Birds: From the parking lot, walk out to the observation point. This bluff overlook is about 20 feet above the water surface and offers great viewing of distant birds on the lake. A variety of Waterfowl, including Lesser Scaup, Redhead, Common Goldeneye and more can all be seen during migration. Locally unusual and rarely seen waterfowl include; all three scoters, Long-tailed Duck, and once a Barrow’s Goldeneye. In some years during the spring, large numbers of Common Loons and Horned Grebes can be seen, and large flocks of Tundra Swans have been observed migrating overhead. Up to four species of grebes have been observed, with Pied-billed and Horned Grebes being the most encountered, but a few Red-necked Grebes do show up and Western Grebe has been recorded twice here. From spring until fall, American White Pelicans are sometimes seen on the lake or flying over the park.
From the overlook, either take the steps down to the lower bluff/beach area and hike back up to the top on the trail, or hug fence line and search the trees for warblers, vireos and more during migration. Once, a Northern Mockingbird was found, and hung around the park for about a week. Over near the airport property, look through the fence and search over the airport fields for grassland birds. Usually Savannah Sparrows and maybe an Eastern Meadowlark will be found, and rarely have Western Meadowlark, Upland Sandpiper and Buff-breasted Sandpiper been seen.
Directions: Three miles south of Wausau. From Grand Avenue in Schofield, turn west onto Radtke Street and drive several blocks to the west end at Radtke Park (44.920006, -89.619230).
Site Address & Additional Information:
200 Park Street. Schofield, WI
A spotting scope is recommended for distant viewing.
Dan Belter
