https://ebird.org/wi/hotspot/L1572657
Habitat: Hemlock-Hardwood Forest, Northern Hardwood Forest, Pine Plantation, Cedar Swamp, Hardwood Swamp, Conifer Bog, Sedge Meadow, Alder Swamp, Open Water. Located within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.
Best Birds: Walking the Aldo Leopold Trail provides opportunities to view Hardwood Forest species such as woodpeckers, flycatchers, thrushes, and warblers including Olive-sided Flycatcher, Yellow-throated and Blue-headed Vireo, Veery, Hermit Thrush, Wood Thrush, Northern Parula, and Canada Warbler. Following the top of an esker, it offers an elevated view of the forest before dropping down to Marsh and Open Water where Trumpeter Swans nest.
Habitat varies along the Ice Age Trail, which encircles the northern half of the flowage. In the forest, species are similar to those mentioned for the Aldo Leopold Trail. Pine Warbler may be found in pine plantations. Common Loon is found on the flowage, there are several Bald Eagle nests in trees near the shore, and Osprey are frequently seen.
The Mondeaux Hardwoods State Natural Area, which comprises almost 800 acres provides habitat for Northern Goshawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, and Pileated Woodpecker. In the Hemlock habitat, Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, and Golden-winged Warbler are possible.
Directions: 71 miles NW of Wausau/25 miles northwest of Medford. From County Road D take FR 104 (Mondeaux Dr) and then FR 106 (Park Road) one mile to the Mondeaux Dam area. Several roads, trails, and campgrounds provide access. The Aldo Leopold Trailhead is along Park Rd. (45.33262, -90.45389). Access to the Ice Age Trail is near the lodge and dam (45.33333, -90.45188); also south on Campers Rd at 45.30550, -90.43847. A canoe or kayak can add to birding opportunities and can be launched near the lodge. The Mondeaux Hardwoods State Natural Area is southwest of the dam and lodge and access is along Road 106 and Road 100 and trails that enter the area especially the Ice Age Trail and Trail 333. See map for boundaries and roads/trails.
Site Address and Additional Information:
https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Lands/naturalareas/index.asp?SNA=461
https://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/rna/wi/chequamegon/mondeaux-hardwoods/
Cathy Mauer
