Due to shifting weather conditions, this event has been cancelled, but we hope to reschedule. Stay tuned for more information!

Set amidst 25 acres of woods and meadows on Farley Center land, the Natural Path Sanctuary is the first cemetery in Dane County, Wisconsin that exclusively follows natural and green burial practices. The nature preserve encompasses a diverse variety of habitats, including a pond and rocky ridges. We will explore the sanctuary on an early spring morning, looking and listening for birdlife. We will also be joined by staff who can share more about the history and management of this meditative place.

As a reminder, spring weather in Wisconsin can be inconsistent, so be sure to bundle up with layers and wear appropriate shoes for possibly icy, muddy, or wet conditions. Feel free to also bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, binoculars, and/or field guide. The field trip leader will share a checklist of all identified birds after the event.

Kaitlin Svabek, field trip leader.

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

ACCESSIBILITY:

• This is an inclusive field trip, beginning birders are welcome.

• The field trip leader is adept at birding by ear and can accommodate those with blindness or low vision.

• Terrain information: trails are unpaved, primarily mowed grass and packed dirt, with uneven areas containing rocks, ruts, slopes, and steeper grades/hills. Benches are situated along the trail approximately every 100 yards.

• Facilities: there are portable toilet and hand-washing stations on site. Picnic tables are available at the meeting point.

WHEELCHAIR USE: Want to use an all-terrain, outdoor wheelchair for this field trip? Access Ability Wisconsin offers them for free! To reserve a chair and trailer, visit their website.

APPROXIMATE DISTANCE: 1-3 miles; can be adjusted based on participants’ needs and desires

RSVP REQUIRED? Yes. Participation is limited to 20 people, with a waitlist.

Cover image: An American Robin perched on a branch (photo via Pixabay).