Fall is a marvelous time to see lots of migrants making their way south for the winter. As these birds migrate, they are in search of food and resting places along their journey.

At Winton Woods, we have a fabulous viewing place for this at the West Fork Dam silt basin pond. In the spring and fall, you will often see many waterfowl gathering there. The popularity of the spot is partly due to the fact that the area is fenced in to protect the nesting and migrating species that visit. Some waterfowl you might see include northern shovelers, scaup, ring-necked ducks, mallard, Canada geese, American coots and more. This space also provides a home for many other animals such as turtles, beavers, fish and frogs. Occasionally you may hear an owl calling in the distance or see a red-tailed hawk soaring above. Bald eagles have also been spotted around the area, but if any American coots are nearby, they have to careful since they are one of the bald eagles’ favorite meals!

If you’re interested in learning more, please join us for Migration Watch Weekend, November 16 and 17 at Winton Woods. We’ll caravan up to the silt basin to see what migrants we can spot, as well as enjoy a few family-friendly activities. The program, which begins at 10 a.m. each day, is free, but pre-registration is required by November 15 at greatparks.org. Hope to see you there!

Jenn Wallace, Naturalist, Winton Woods