https://ebird.org/wi/hotspot/L326073
Habitat: Large conifer bog dominated by Black Spruce and Tamarack,Sedge Marsh, Alder Swamp, and Open Water.
Best Birds: From the parking lot, take the trail to the west for two miles and scan across Norrie Lake for Common Loon. Continuing west, check the Quaking Aspen and wetlands for Black-billed Cuckoo, Alder Flycatcher, and Warbling Vireo. Nesting summer birds may include Golden-crowned Kinglet, Sedge Wren, Hermit Thrush, Lincoln’s and White-throated Sparrow, Yellow-rumped, Palm and Nashville Warbler, and Purple Finch. Olive-sided Flycatcher is seen during spring and fall migration.
At the western side of the bog look here for nesting Yellow-bellied Flycatcher. Common Raven can be seen or heard anywhere along the trail as well.
Directions: 19 miles E of Wausau/ 3 miles east of Hatley. The east side entrance to the bog is located at a Mountain-Bay State Trail parking lot (44.887169, -89.260566) along the north shore of Norrie Lake,on Norrie Road just west of County Highway D. Walk or bike (fee for bicycles) to the west until you enter the bog, a little more than a quarter mile away. Continue 1.9 miles west where at the western side of the bog there is a ¼ mile long boardwalk (44.886061, -89.302271).
Site Address & Additional Information:
Norrie Road, Birnamwood WI
Note: all land off the trail is private property. Stay on trail at all times. Outdoor restroom and informational kiosk are available at the parking lot. The trail itself is wide, well maintained, flat and easy to walk or bicycle.
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/mountainbay
https://www.co.marathon.wi.us//Departments/ParksRecreationForestry/Recreation/Biking.aspx
Dan Belter
