Bird and Nature Outing – October 28

On a chilly, overcast, “doubtful” day, 21 participants joined ​Chuck Henrikson, birding enthusiast and an expert in veterinary anatomy, at the entrance to Picnic Point. Chuck began the Owl Prowl with a “trunk show” at his car.  He reviewed the 8 species of owls found in Wisconsin, and their nocturnal adaptations. Chuck showed how feathers are constructed and passed around a dissected owl pellet for all to see.  Then we started the walk up the path to the tip of Picnic Point, stopping to observe the aquatic birds on University Bay through Chuck’s spotting scope.  We saw lots of Coots, Buffleheads, and Mallards, and a half-dozen Loons.  A rare sighting of a Eurasian Wigeon was made on the Bay in the morning, but none in our group found it.  The chilly wind picked up as we approached the end of the Point and walked down the steps to the frothy edge of Lake Mendota. We circled back towards Bill’s Woods where barred owls nested last spring. From his smartphone, Chuck broadcast Barred Owl calls hoping to hear an answer. Finally, we heard the “Who cooks for you - all?” reply, again and again. It was a satisfying end for the 21 attendees, who stayed with Chuck to the finish. Report and photos by Doris Dubielzig, friends host for this walk.

Enjoying a fall outing in the midst of glorious sugar maples at peak color. Path to Picnic Point.