Discovery Bird Hikes and Wildflower Walks Ring in Spring at The Ridges

Spring in Door County means the reappearance of some of our most beautiful birds and wildflowers. What better way to enjoy these springtime treasures than by taking a leisurely hike? The Ridges Sanctuary is sponsoring a Discovery Bird Hike, as well as two guided wildflower hikes at their Logan Creek Property, on Saturday, May 10.

The first of a series of “Discovery Bird Hikes” will take place at 6:30 am on Saturday, May 10. Birders should meet at the Ridges Nature Center, 8288 County Q. This hike is designed for both beginning and experienced birders; and May is a great time to see a variety of birds, including many species of warblers that migrate through Door County on their way to northern nesting areas. The hike is free for Ridges members, with donations accepted for nonmembers.

Discovery Bird Hikes will also take place on May 15 and 22, and then every Saturday morning in June and July. Hikes are led by local birders, but all participants will be involved in discovering and identifying the species seen.

The wildflower hikes will be led by Ridges Naturalist Karen Newbern, beginning at 10 am and 1 pm, with each hike lasting about 90 minutes. Many early spring species, such as hepatica, trout lily and trillium, should be in bloom. Participants should wear weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. Meet at the parking lot at 5724 Loritz Road, just south of Jacksonport on Highway 57. Families are welcome. Cost is $5 for adults, no charge for children under 18.

Preregistration is requested for these wildflower hikes. Please call The Ridges Sanctuary at 920.839.2802 to register for either the morning or afternoon hike.

The Ridges Sanctuary is Wisconsin’s oldest nonprofit nature preserve, established in 1937. Much of the property owned by the Sanctuary is located just north of Baileys Harbor, on County Road Q (a quarter mile east of Highway 57). Trails at the Sanctuary are open to the public for a small fee. For more information, call 920.839.2802 or visit http://www.RidgesSanctuary.org.