A clear view of a Woodcock’s spectacular speckled tan, grey, and black camouflage.
We are excited to host our fourth annual Woodcock walk in Madison! Join us as we search for these cool little birds as they "peent" and do their quirky and elaborate courtship fights that are called "sky dances."
We will meet Saturday evening at Cherokee Marsh NORTH Unit in the big parking lot next to the restrooms and head into the open grassy area to the east of the lot. Total walking loop is around one mile in length.
What to Expect
Trails: The majority of the trails wide, level, and well-maintained (mowed grass, crushed limestone, or metal boardwalk), though there is an optional loop that goes over a large hill that would not be accessible for a mobility device as the slope is too steep. In the winter, trails are snow-covered, icy, or snow-packed and we believe only the parking lot is plowed. There is potential for wet weather to make trail surfaces muddy, so water-resistant footwear is recommended. Ice is also possible, depending on weather conditions.
Parking is in gravel lots with no lined/marked spaces, but are very large. There are accessible parking signs present.
Bathrooms: We did not have a tape measure to measure the exact dimensions or height of the sink, but the women's restroom includes a very spacious handicap stall. There are no mirrors or hand dryers in the restroom, just two toilet stalls (one handicap), a sink, and a roll of paper towels on a chain by the door. These bathrooms are open seasonally, but have historically been available during this event in late March.
Additional notes: For low-vision attendees, please note that we will be navigating low-light conditions at the end of the event as we return to vehicles.
Thank you to the community members who contribute Birdability site reviews to make our local natural spaces more accessible! Learn more with the Birdability Accessibility Assessment.
Species List (eBird)
Canada Goose 6
Mallard 10
Sandhill Crane 22
Killdeer 2
American Woodcock 8
Northern Harrier 1
Red-bellied Woodpecker 1
American Robin 3
Red-winged Blackbird 32
Rusty Blackbird 6
Mourning Dove 2
Black-capped Chickadee 2