https://ebird.org/hotspot/L596784
Habitat: Bottomland Hardwoods, with Southern Hardwood covering most of the bluff. Atop the bluff are small Remnant Prairies, more than 300 feet about the river.
Best Birds: Red-shouldered Hawk, Carolina Wren, and Prothonotary Warbler, are found in the bottomland hardwoods along the road to the bluff and around the parking area.
As you climb the steep wooded trail to the bluff, look for Pileated Woodpecker, Yellow-throated Vireo, Eastern Towhee, Wood Thrush, and Scarlet Tanager.
At the top of the bluff the open areas and prairie remnants and secondary growth have Field Sparrow and Blue-winged Warbler. Uncommon species like Yellow-breasted Chat and White-eyed Vireo have also been found in these thickets on the bluffs.
While at the top the bluff, it is always worth scanning the river for birds. At this height above the river, it may be difficult identifying smaller birds, but raptor species and American White Pelican can easily be seen.
During the winter months this area is closed but expected species would include those typical along the Wisconsin River like Common Merganser and Bald Eagle.
Directions: 31 miles NW of Madison/5 miles west of Sauk City. Take Ferry Bluff road to the south from Hwy 60. Continue south for about a mile to the parking area at the start of the bluff trail. Note: Ferry Bluff is closed November 15th to April 1st to protect roosting Bald Eagles
Site Address & Additional Information:
Ferry Bluff Rd, Sauk City, WI
https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Lands/naturalareas/index.asp?SNA=217
https://www.devilslakeclimbingguides.com/blog/ferry-bluff-state-natural-area
Aaron Holschbach
