Are you curious about birds but not sure how to get started? Geared specifically towards people who are brand new to birding or venturing out for one of the first times, this field trip is for you! Together, we'll look and listen for birds, focusing on tips for identification.

Let's meet at Nine Springs parking lot (43°01'52.0"N 89°20'56.3"W). We will meander around the ponds together. The official end time is 9am, though the trip leader will be available for a short while afterward to venture onto the E-Way boardwalk.

Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated; feel free to bring a camera, binoculars, and/or field guide. Trails may be muddy or wet, so wear appropriate shoes. Binoculars will be available to borrow, if you'd like.

If you wish to use any app-based identification tools (Merlin is a great option), please download and sign up ahead of time. The field trip leader will keep a checklist of all identified birds in the eBird app and will share the list afterward.

Kaitlin Svabek is excited to welcome you to the wonderful world of birding!

FIELD TRIP LEADER: Kaitlin Svabek (ksvabek@madisonaudubon.org)

RAIN DATE: Sunday, April 3, 7:30am-9am

ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES:

• Field trip leader is adept at birding by ear and able to accommodate those with visual impairments

• Read more about this location on the Birdability Map: Nine Springs / Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District Wildlife Observation Area

APPROXIMATE DISTANCE FOR WALKING: 1-3 miles, but can be adjusted based on participants’ needs and desires

RSVP REQUIRED? Yes, participation is limited to 12 people (so that everyone has a chance to ask lots of questions!). This outing is full!

Photo via Pixabay. Two mallards dabbling for food in a pond.