Happy Groundhog Day
Happy Groundhog/World Wetlands Day 2024!
Yesterday I escaped outside for a walk. The sun was shining and it was a warm beautiful day. Mr. Titmouse announced spring is near by singing his courtship song of “peter, peter, peter”. It made me giddy to hear him. Sorry groundhog Phil, he beat you to it.
Since today is also World Wetlands Day, I thought I’d share about my recent trek to the Dixon Waterfowl Refuge wetland near Hennepin, IL.
I visited in early November during the fall waterfowl migration. As soon as I got out of the car, I could hear hundreds of ducks quacking. I knew it was going to be a great day. The female Mallards’ cackling “quacked me up” the entire day. There were so many ducks I couldn’t list them all but a few highlights were Canvasback, Bufflehead, and Pintails. I never fully appreciated how many different ducks there were until I witnessed them. Not only were there ducks, but hundreds of birds of all kinds. I saw glorious Sandhill Cranes, majestic White Pelicans, silly Coots, and cheerful songbirds like Eastern Bluebirds, Song Sparrows, and Cardinals.
I'm ashamed to admit I didn't discover this magical place until last year. I was amazed by its beautiful and peaceful atmosphere. I couldn't believe I'd been missing out all these years! To think it's less than an hour away too!
There is an awesome observation deck overlooking the water and hiking trails to explore. I recommend allowing yourself at least a couple hours if you really want to fully experience this special place.
The Sandy Hollow Seep trail includes native plants and woodlands perfect for watching pollinators in warmer seasons. You could also enjoy looking for owls, woodpeckers, and songbirds. If you don’t have that much time, visiting the observation tower and taking a short walk on the boardwalk path is worth the trip!
A few things to know before you go...there are no trash cans so make sure to pack up any trash and take it with you. There also isn’t a bathroom, at least not one that I noticed.
Bring your binoculars and a spotting scope if you have them. The trails don’t run super close to water so you’ll need them for better viewing.
Spring migration is just around the corner. Typically, late February to early March the migrating birds should start arriving.
I hope you’ll find time to treat yourself to a visit and check out the migrating birds. You won't regret it. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and amazed.
Wetlands like this one provide important habitat for species that migrate around the world. It’s a nature lover’s dream.
If you want to know more or want a bird check list reach out to me. I’m happy to help.
Your friendly flower farmer and nature lover,
Erica
