Horicon Marsh Birding & Nature Tour

Explore Horicon Wildlife Refuge, the premier wetland in the Midwest, during the beautiful season of fall as countless migratory birds undertake their journeys south. We will discover this Wetland of International Importance by car and on foot. As the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States, Horicon is home to over 260 bird species and other diverse wildlife.  

We’ll begin our day with a brief stop at Dodge County Ledge Park for a panoramic overview of the 32,000 acre marsh. Importantly, the geologic features preserved in this park set the necessary backdrop for the marsh’s existence. 

We’ll then head over to the Scenic Overlook on Palmatory Street. This site boasts of numerous hiking trails, ponds, and wildlife viewing opportunities. After lunch at this location, we travel north for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Auto Tour.  

Throughout the day, we’ll have the opportunity to observe the adaptations and behaviors of the birds which depend on this important habitat for their survival. Your guides for the day will be Director of Learning Tom Finley and Adult Program Coordinator Michelle Allison. Both are avid birders and have led numerous trips to the Marsh. 

You will need to provide your own transportation to and from the Marsh and to the various locations during the trip. Please bring your own lunch/snacks. You’ll come away with a better understanding of local waterfowl, the importance of the wetland ecosystem and hone your identification skills. Further details and meeting location will be emailed to registered participants one week prior to the trip. No additional entrance fees are required at the Marsh. 

Members: $50 | Non-Members: $65