https://ebird.org/hotspot/L18130388
Habitat: Open Water, Marsh, Willow-Alder-Dogwood Swamp, Conifer Bog.
Best birds: Waterfowl can be observed in the open water almost year round, including Trumpeter Swan. The cattails of the marsh should be checked for Sora, Least Bittern, American Bittern, and occasionally Yellow-headed Blackbird. Alder Flycatcher, Swamp Sparrow and Golden-winged Warbler can be found in the swamp alders and willows. The Black Spruce and Tamarack edges of parts of the flowage may hold Red-breasted Nuthatch, kinglets, and Purple Finch. An artificial Osprey nest platform on private land produces young most years, as does the Bald Eagle nest in the pine canopies on the southwest edge of the flowage. Sandhill Crane also nest on the flowage each year.
Directions: 71 miles S of Superior. The flowage borders the east side of Spooner. Best access is by canoe or kayak from three locations: Veterans Memorial Waterfront Park boat launch on Hatchery Street in Spooner (45.81873, -91.89657), the Hwy 70 wayside 0.5 mile east of Spooner (45.82132, -91.86581) and at the south end of Randall Lake Road. The end of Randall Lake Road is facing Beaver Brook SWA. The Yellow River Flowage is to the north of this landing.
Site Address & Additional information:
Randall Lake Road, Spooner WI
Adjacent land on the south side is state DNR owned Beaver Brook Wildlife area. Land on the other three sides is privately owned. The ice is never safe to walk on for winter birding.
Gary Dunsmoor
