Did you know that cemeteries were a precursor to city parks? Starting in the early 1830s, “rural cemeteries” like Mount Auburn were established to create tranquil, beautiful settings where families could visit and commemorate their loved ones. Early on, birds were notable attractions in these natural settings. Planners began to shape landscapes that would provide food, water, and shelter for wildlife, and birdwatching became a popular recreational activity for visitors.
Forest Hill Cemetery in Madison was also designed as a rural cemetery (read more history here). It was constructed upon the site of Ho-Chunk effigy mounds in linear, water spirit, and goose shapes built millennia ago.
We’ll meet at the small lot near the cemetery office (43°04'02.0"N 89°25'46.7"W) to enjoy a quiet and respectful evening outing. We’ll take in the cool, crisp fall air and maybe see a few birds and bats before sunset.
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated; feel free to also bring a camera, binoculars, and/or field guide. The field trip leader will share a checklist of all identified birds after the event.
Questions? Contact Brenna Marsicek, bmarsicek@swibirds.org or 608-255-2473
Kaitlin Svabek, field trip leader.
FIELD TRIP LEADER: Kaitlin Svabek
ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES:
This is an inclusive, accessible field trip and beginning birders are welcome
Read more about this location on the Birdability Map: Forest Hill Cemetery
WHEELCHAIR USE: Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance (SoWBA) has one electric-powered wheelchair available for anyone to use for free. You can learn more about it here, and request it in the form when you register.
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. If you need help coordinating a wheelchair for this trip, please let us know (Brenna Marsicek, bmarsicek@swibirds.org).
APPROXIMATE DISTANCE: 0.5-2.5 miles; can be adjusted based on participants’ needs and desires
RSVP REQUIRED? Yes. Participation is limited to 10 people. Registration will open 6 weeks in advance.
Cover illustration of cemetery and birds by Kaitlin Svabek/SoWBA
