Jeff Bahls, President
N4686 Blackbird Rd
Beaver Dam, WI 53916
(920) 210-4832
For festival registration questions
call 920-485-4663
email the president
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Bird Festival Events for 2012 Horicon Marsh Bird Festival will be May 11-14 2012, - WE ARE OPEN FOR REGISTRATION ! Saturday, January 14, 2012 - HABITAT BIRDING bus & boat tour Registration Required ($) 
Friday, May 11, 2012 - 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM .jpg) LOCATION AThis is an all day two-part tour by bus and pontoon boat. Trip leaders will be , Dennis Gustafson & Jeff Bahls with the use of a bus, we will bird some of the better habitat locations in and around Horicon Marsh. Our main objective is to ID as many bird species as possible. Short hikes will provide easy walking and we will "try" to stay on dry ground. After a one-hour break we will board a pontoon boat to bird the interior of Horicon Marsh. Most of our local nesting birds will be present, bolstered by our migrants that use the marsh to refuel and rest. A large and varied list of birds should be seen. Captains Marc Zuelsdorf and Jerry Genzmer will be your guides for this part of the tour. A box lunch & drink are included in the cost of this tour. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center,at the south entrance, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Bus departs at 6:00 AM SHARP and Boat departs at 3:00 PM SHARP from Blue Heron Landing "location C", Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. *Mailed in registration with payment required. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. As of 1-31-12 we have 11 seats available. SIGHTSEEING TOUR by boat ($) Friday, May 11, 2012 - 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM LOCATION C A 1 hr. narrated pontoon boat tour of the inner Horicon Marsh, observing the birds and animals in their natural habitat. Tours depart from Blue Heron Landing, Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. Adults $11.00, Ages 4-13 $6.25 Call 920-485-4663 NIGHT SOUNDS bus tour Registration Required ($)
Friday, May 11, 2012 - 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM .jpg) LOCATION EJoin Jack Bartholmai, Erin Railsback and Marc Zuelsdorf for this unique dusk into dark tour of the night sounds on Horicon Marsh. The tour begins in the Marsh Haven Nature Center's Theater with a multi-media introduction to the critters that call in the night. There will be a display of live frogs and toads that make the majority of night sounds on the Marsh. With permission from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, we will be on the Auto Tour loop at dusk and stay AFTER DARK. We will stop to hear and see the Woodcock dance. This trip will also focus on other songs and calls of our marsh's night birds and amphibians. The trip includes stops along the Auto Tour Route and Boardwalk. Conditions permitting, we will take a short walk down the Old Marsh Road and hear the marsh come alive with wildlife music. There will be some walking. . . rated easy. Meet in Marsh Haven Nature Center's Gift Shop, at 7p.m. (open all day) located right off Hwy 49 on the northwest corner of the Horicon Marsh across from the Refuge Auto Tour. *Mailed in registration with payment required. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. As of 1-31-12 we have 23 seats available. HORICON MARSH BIRD FESTIVAL PHOTO CONTEST Saturday, May 12, 2012 - May 11-14 2012 Horicon Marsh Bird Festival Photo Contest Who is eligible? All participants of the 2012 Horicon Marsh Bird Festival, except members of the Horicon Marsh Bird Club. Photos must taken during 2012 Horicon Marsh Bird Festival dates (May 11-14, 2012) Enter as many categories and photos as you wish. While photos are not required to be taken during festival events, people entering the contest must attend at least one event of the festival. This will cover all hikes and trips. All photos must be taken within area covered during the festival. (Horicon Marsh and surrounding area) All photos must have name, address, telephone number and email address (if applicable) on the back of the photos. Photos submitted must be 8" X 10" prints mounted on foam board (no mattes or frames) Photos must be received at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center by June 1, 2012. Non prize winners can pick up photos at Horicon Marsh International Education Center after judging. Photographers must have attached to one of their submitted photos a " photo contest entrance blank" for proof of attending the festival. These will be available from trip leaders and at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, Horicon NWR and Marsh Haven Nature Center. Categories will be: Birds Nature People in Nature Top 4 photos in each category will be invited to participate in 2013 Horicon Marsh Bird Festival art display. Top winners will be considered for future artwork in 2013 brochures/ads NOTE All trips will be conducted as "birding" trips first and photography as a sideline. You are welcome to return to areas after trips to make your photos then if you wish. Enjoy ! HORICON NWR EAST TO WEST bus tour / hike ($) Registration Required ($)
Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM .jpg) LOCATION BGuides will be Greg Seegert and Jeff Bahls along with USFWS staff. This field trip was a "big hit" in previous years , and is designed for the more adventurous birder. While this tour will begin with us boarding a bus and birding the eastern half of Dike Road getting off at selected locations, it will end with a up to 2-mile plus bird walk along the western half of Dike Road. including a woodland section north of Dike Road to look for warblers and other forest species." The hike will be along graveled Dike Road, level and flat terrain. Dike Road, for those who are unfamiliar with Horicon Marsh is near the dividing line or border between the southern 1/3 of the marsh that is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the northern 2/3, which is managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. With the cooperation of the USFWS, the western end of this Dike Road Tour will take place in an area not previously birded until the '08 Bird Festival. A portion of each registration fee is being donated to the Friends of Horicon National Wildlife Refuge. While the eastern half is made up of mostly cattail marsh and open water, the western part is primarily a mixture of trees/shrub & edge habitat. Meet at the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, W4279 Headquarters Rd. off Cty. Rd. Z on the east side of the marsh. The bus will depart at 6:00 AM SHARP. Bring your own snacks. *Mailed in registration with payment required. The same locations may be covered on the Sunday event. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. As of 1-31-12 we have 25 seats available. FIRST LIGHT BIRDING bus tour ($) Registration Required ($)
Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM  LOCATION ATrip leaders are Dennis Gustafson & Brad Webb. This is a field trip designed for birders who want to add as many species as possible to their bird lists. Be prepared to move by bus from location to location in search of migratory hot spots. There will be some walking but it is rated easy. We try our best to finish on time, but in the world of birding, bird activity is the deciding factor. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Please use the entrance on the south side of the building. Bus departs at 6:00 AM SHARP. Bring your own snacks. *Mailed in registration with payment required. This event will be held again on Sunday. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. As of 1-31-12 we have 27 seats available. HORICON MARSH INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION CENTER & FESTIVAL INFORMATION Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM LOCATION A This year many of the Bird Festival events will begin at the new Horicon Marsh International Education Center. This center is a $4.8 million project made possible largely due to tremendous local support. Construction began in November 2007 and required more than one year to complete. The center features an auditorium, two classrooms, traveling exhibit area, gift shop and a tremendous view of Horicon Marsh. The exhibit hall is yet to be completed, as are a few other components of the project. Volunteers will be on hand to provide information and direct visitors to the many events. Maps, Festival Booklets and other handouts will be available. Bird Festival pins, hats and shirts will be on sale and the gift shop will be open for those interested in purchasing something to remind them of their experience. We have a few festival pins available from previous years for those who forgot to purchase one at the time or for collectors. The Horicon Marsh International Education Center, is located off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. BIRD BANDING DEMONSTRATION Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 6:30 AM to 12:00 AM LOCATION D Join Biocore Prairie Bird Observatory volunteers,and see our migrating songbirds close up and in the hand as they are captured, banded and released for study. This is a public demonstration where visitors will be able to see how and why bird banding is conducted. It also provides one of the best opportunities to observe these amazing migrants up close. Meet at the DNR Field Office, North Palmatory St. in Horicon HORICON MARSH BIRD HIKE Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM .jpg) LOCATION AJoin your leader, Nolan Korlath, for a hike that will focus on bird species numbers in a seldom-birded area, covering a variety of habitats. Walking on uneven trails and in damp foliage is a possibility. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon.Please use the entrance on the south side of the building. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. BIRDING ADVENTURE boat tour ($) Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM .jpg) LOCATION CJoin your guide on a two-hour narrated birding adventure into the heart of the marsh by pontoon boat. Observe the birds and animals in their natural habitat. Tours depart from Blue Heron Landing, Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. Adults $20.00, Ages 5-13 $10.50 Call 920-485-4663 CRAFTER BIRD HOUSES AND FEEDERS Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 9 AM - 5 PM Location E Bill Amidon of Into the Woods Woodcraft will be displaying his beautiful selection of cedar bird houses and bird feeders at Marsh Haven on Saturday and Sunday An experienced wood worker from Campbellsport, Mr. Amidon will feature his finely crafted bluebird, wren and bat houses He will also display his suet, oriole and tray feeders BIRDING ADVENTURE boat tour ($) Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM LOCATION C Join your guide on a two-hour narrated birding adventure into the heart of the marsh by pontoon boat. Observe the birds and animals in their natural habitat. Tours depart from Blue Heron Landing, Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. Adults $20.00, Ages 5-13 $10.50 Call 920-485-4663 HORICON NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE VISITOR CENTER Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 9 am to 6 pm LOCATION B Watch a Refuge video, view interactive displays, observe the marsh from the viewing deck with spotting scopes and visit the Refuge gift shop. Opportunity to view the Wisconsin Federal Junior Duck Stamp Exhibit. No charge for programs or activities. The Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, is located at: W4279 Headquarters Rd. off Cty. Rd. Z on the east side of the marsh. LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY FIELDTRIP ($) Registration Required ($)
Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 9-11 AM Want to learn how a digital camera functions, how to obtain better exposures, or how to improve composition? Then consider attending this field trip that will combine a discussion on the technical side of photography along with a short hike where you can practice taking photographs under the guidance of an expert, Dave Edwards. All skill levels are welcomed. Bring your camera gear, manual and tripod. Meet at the Horicon NWR auto tour board walk, In the event of inclement weather our discussion and lecture will relocate to Marsh Haven Nature Center. BANDING NEOTROPICAL MIGRANTS Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM LOCATION D Who are they and what makes them so special? Among the many birds captured and banded at the Bird Festival are numerous Neotropical migrant birds. Join Biocore Prairie Bird Observatory,for this program that is a continuation of the Bird Banding Program with a discussion of the birds of two worlds - their North American breeding grounds and their tropical wintering grounds. Meet at the DNR Field Office, North Palmatory St. in Horicon. BIRDcamp at Marsh Haven Nature Center Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 10AM - 3 PM Marsh Haven Nature Center (Location E) A unique environmental, bird-themed day camp for children ages 7-12 that strives to foster a love and respect for the earth that lasts a lifetime. BIRDcamp offers science, games, art, drama and music all with a bird-themed focus. This curriculum is designed to inspire care and concern for the earth, in addition to helping campers learn more about our feathered friends. BIRDcamp is presented in an atmosphere of fun and camaraderie. Sign up for one day or both-$15 for one day or $25 for both days - different activities will be held each day. Held at Marsh Haven Nature Center, 3 miles east of Waupun on Hwy. 49 (W10145 State Road 49 East). Limit 20 children/day. Registration form at www.marshhaven.com or call 920-318-9518. Registration deadline May 1, 2012. WETLAND WATER BUGS Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM LOCATION F For young explorers of all ages. Join us to collect aquatic creatures from the marsh and learn how they adapt to survive. Meet at the boardwalk at the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge auto tour route, off of Hwy 49. For more information, call 920-387-2658. SIGHTSEEING TOUR by boat ($) Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM LOCATION C A 1 hr. narrated pontoon boat tour of the inner Horicon Marsh, observing the birds and animals in their natural habitat. Tours depart from Blue Heron Landing, Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. Adults $11.00, Ages 4-13 $6.25 Call 920-485-4663 WILD BIRDS OF PREY ($) Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM .jpg) LOCATION EHave you ever wondered what it takes to work with injured birds of prey? Have you ever wanted to see them close up? Come and listen to the popular Barb Harvey of Horicon as she gives an introduction to Wisconsin's hawks and owls. She uses slides, mounted specimens and LIVE birds in her presentation. The particular live birds may vary each day but have included a Red-tailed Hawk, Snowy Owl, Kestrels, Great Horned Owl and others. Meet at Marsh Haven Nature Center, three miles east of Waupun on Hwy. 49 on the northwest corner of the Horicon Marsh across from the National Wildlife Refuge Auto Tour. $3.00/adults/day, $2.00/child under 15/day 920-382-6770 Guest Speaker , Al Batt, Humorist, Birder Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 1:15 - 2:30 PM  Location A“Bird Stories: Finding wings of joy and feathered miracles. Snippets from a life gone to the birds”. You will not want to miss this presentation. Al is a delightful humorist with a boundless enthusiasm for birds. His stories present a charming look at birds and appeal to everyone. Al Batt of rural Hartland, Minnesota is a writer, speaker, storyteller and humorist. Al writes four weekly humor and nature columns for many newspapers, and does a show three times per week about nature on a number of radio stations. He writes a number of popular cartoon strips that are syndicated nationally. He is a columnist for Bird Watcher's Digest. He has written for a number of magazines and books, including the Chicken Soup For the Soul series. Al speaks to anyone who will listen. His mother thinks he is special. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon Please use the entrance on the south side of the building. WILD BIRDS OF PREY ($) Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM .jpg) LOCATION EHave you ever wondered what it takes to work with injured birds of prey? Have you ever wanted to see them close up? Come and listen to the popular Barb Harvey of Horicon as she gives an introduction to Wisconsin's hawks and owls. She uses slides, mounted specimens and LIVE birds in her presentation. The particular live birds may vary each day but have included a Red-tailed Hawk, Snowy Owl, Kestrels, Great Horned Owl and others. Meet at Marsh Haven Nature Center, three miles east of Waupun on Hwy. 49 on the northwest corner of the Horicon Marsh across from the National Wildlife Refuge Auto Tour. $3.00/adults/day, $2.00/child under 15/day 920-382-6770 BEGINNING BIRDING bird hike Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 2:45 PM to 4:00 PM LOCATION A Your hike leader will be Liz Herzmann. This program will introduce binocular and field guide use and bird identification for the beginning birder. A short bird hike will accompany the program. The hike may be on uneven trails but rated easy. This is for ALL ages that want to learn how to bird. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Birding Optics Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 2:45PM - 3:45PM Location A Birding Optics: selecting,understanding and getting the most from your binoculars and spotting scopes. Join Mike McDowell from Eagle Optics, one of the areas leading optics providers, as he explains numbers, use and choosing of binoculars,spotting scopes and answers your questions. Weather your new to birding or thinking of upgrading your optics this is a great program for you. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Please use the entrance on the south side of the building. BIRDING ADVENTURE boat tour ($) Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM LOCATION C Join your guide on a two-hour narrated birding adventure into the heart of the marsh by pontoon boat. Observe the birds and animals in their natural habitat. Tours depart from Blue Heron Landing, Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. Adults $20.00, Ages 5-13 $10.50 Call 920-485-4663 WISCONSIN FEDERAL JUNIOR DUCK STAMP CONTEST RECEPTION Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM LOCATION B This is a recognition reception for local K-12th grade winners and their families. This reception is open to the public and you will have the opportunity to view the Junior Duck Stamp Contest exhibit.: Guest presentation - local decoy carver and waterfowl enthusiast. Meet at the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, W4279 Headquarters Rd. off Cty. Rd. Z on the east side of the marsh. HOT SPOT BIRDING bus tour & hike ($) Registration Required ($)
Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM LOCATION A Trip leader Jeff Bahls will be using the knowledge obtained from other festival field trips in finding various birding locations (Hot Spots) in hopes of adding as many species as we can in the time allotted. We may even strike out on our own to a - new - birding spot not included in this year’s festival! Walking on uneven trails is possible. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Please use the entrance on the south side of the building. Bus departs at 4:30 PM SHARP. *Mailed in registration with payment required. This event will be held again on Sunday. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. As of 1-31-12 we have 26 seats available. BIRDING ADVENTURE boat tour ($) Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM LOCATION C Join your guide on a two-hour narrated birding adventure into the heart of the marsh by pontoon boat. Observe the birds and animals in their natural habitat. Tours depart from Blue Heron Landing, Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. Adults $20.00, Ages 5-13 $10.50 Call 920-485-4663 WHAT WAS THAT? MARSHLAND NIGHT SOUNDS Saturday, May 12, 2012 - 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM LOCATION A During the day, Horicon Marsh is a relaxing and tranquil place to enjoy nature. But the dark mysteries of the marsh at night can be "chilling" to those not accustomed to the sights and sounds of nocturnal creatures. Hike leader Liz Herzmann will dispel the myths of night as she helps you identify the many nocturnal sounds that come from within the cattails and surrounding area. This program will be conducted outside with easy walking so remember to dress warm and bring a low powered flashlight. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Please use the entrance on the south side of the building. BIG SIT AT HORICON MARSH Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 4:00 AM to 6:30 PM  LOCATION DStarting at 4 AM , join Horicon Marsh Bird Club members (all or parts of the event will be canceled if there is bad weather) for a unique way to bird watch. Our goal is to identify as many bird species as possible in this 14 ˝ hour time period and is restricted to a 17-foot circle. The location of this event is the Observation Deck at the DNR Field Office, at the end of Palmatory St. in Horicon. A great look at the cattail marsh, open water, grassland, shrubbery and trees give this location a high mark for species potential. We will have the species ID list posted and are looking for all the help that we can get into the 17 ft. circle. Come and join us for all or part of this annual event as we try to ID every bird seen and or heard from this location. We are averaging 79 bird species during the Big Sit and have a total species list of 112 from this Observation Deck over the last 4 Festivals. Feel free to check-in throughout the day to see where our count stands. Donations and pledges are greatly appreciated; as this is our main funding source for Club projects and what we believe is a fun and educational Bird Festival. There will be a pledge / donation box located on the observation deck during the Big Sit. Pledges or donations can also be sent directly to the Big Sit by using the Event Registration Form on this web site. So we thank you in advance for your pledge or donation. Your generosity will go a long ways in helping support our - Bird Feeding / Landscaping Complex - project slated for the newly remodeled Horicon Marsh International Education Center. We are hoping to provide both outdoor and indoor bird observations into this area. So come join us at the Big Sit and who knows, you might be able to add a bird species or two to our list of birds. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. BIRDING WITH Al Batt bus tour ($) Registration Required ($)
Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM .jpg) LOCATION AThis is a field trip designed for birders who want to add as many species as possible to their bird lists. Be prepared to move by bus from location to location in search of migratory hot spots. There will be some walking but it is rated easy. We try our best to finish on time, but in the world of birding, bird activity is the deciding factor. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Bus departs at 6:00 AM SHARP.Please use the entrance on the south side of the building. Bring your own snacks. *Mailed in registration with payment required. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. As of 1-31-12 we have 29 seats available. HORICON NWR EAST TO WEST bus tour & hike ($) Registration Required ($)
Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM .jpg) LOCATION BGuides will be Marty Evenson and Jeff Bahls along with USFWS staff. This field trip was a "big hit" in previous years , and is designed for the more adventurous birder. While this tour will begin with us boarding a bus and birding the eastern half of Dike Road getting off at selected locations, it will end with a up to 2-mile plus bird walk along the western half of Dike Road. including a woodland section north of Dike Road to look for warblers and other forest species." The hike will be along graveled Dike Road, level and flat terrain. Dike Road, for those who are unfamiliar with Horicon Marsh is near the dividing line or border between the southern 1/3 of the marsh that is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the northern 2/3, which is managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. With the cooperation of the USFWS, the western end of this Dike Road Tour will take place in an area not previously birded until the '08 Bird Festival. A portion of each registration fee is being donated to the Friends of Horicon National Wildlife Refuge. While the eastern half is made up of mostly cattail marsh and open water, the western part is primarily a mixture of trees/shrub & edge habitat. Meet at the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, W4279 Headquarters Rd. off Cty. Rd. Z on the east side of the marsh. The bus will depart at 6:00 AM SHARP. Bring your own snacks. *Mailed in registration with payment required. The same locations may be covered on the Saturday event. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. As of 1-31-12 we have 32 seats available. BIRD BANDING DEMONSTRATION Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 6:30 AM to 12:00 AM LOCATION D Join Biocore Prairie Bird Observatory, banding volunteers and see our migrating songbirds close up and in the hand as they are captured, banded and released for study. This is a public demonstration where visitors will be able to see how and why bird banding is conducted. It also provides one of the best opportunities to observe these amazing migrants up close. Meet at the DNR Field Office, North Palmatory St. in Horicon. BIRDING ADVENTURE boat tour ($) Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM  LOCATION CJoin your guide on a two-hour narrated birding adventure into the heart of the marsh by pontoon boat. Observe the birds and animals in their natural habitat. Tours depart from Blue Heron Landing, Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. Adults $20.00, Ages 5-13 $10.50 Call 920-485-4663. HORICON MARSH BIRD HIKE Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM Location A Join leaders for a hike that will focus on bird species numbers in a seldom-birded area, covering a variety of habitats. Walking on uneven trails and in damp foliage is a possibility. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. HORICON MARSH INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION CENTER and FESTIVAL INFORMATION Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM LOCATION A This year most of the Bird Festival events will begin at the new Horicon Marsh International Education Center. This center is a $4.8 million project made possible largely due to tremendous local support. Construction began in November 2007 and required more than one year to complete. The center features an auditorium, two classrooms, traveling exhibit area, gift shop and a tremendous view of Horicon Marsh. The exhibit hall is yet to be completed, as are a few other components of the project. Volunteers will be on hand to provide information and direct visitors to the many events. Maps, Festival Booklets and other handouts will be available. Bird Festival pins, hats and shirts will be on sale and the gift shop will be open for those interested in purchasing something to remind them of their experience. We have a few festival pins available from previous years for those who forgot to purchase one at the time or for collectors. The Horicon Marsh International Education Center is located off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. CRAFTED BIRD HOUSES AND FEEDERS Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 10AM - 5PM Location E Bill Amidon of Into the Woods Woodcraft will be displaying his beautiful selection of cedar bird houses and bird feeders at Marsh Haven on Saturday and Sunday An experienced wood worker from Campbellsport, Mr. Amidon will feature his finely crafted bluebird, wren and bat houses He will also display his suet, oriole and tray feeders HORICON NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE VISITOR CENTER Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM LOCATION B Watch a Refuge video, view interactive displays, observe the marsh from the viewing deck with spotting scopes and visit the Refuge gift shop. Opportunity to view the Wisconsin Federal Junior Duck Stamp Exhibit. No charge for programs or activities. The Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, is located at: W4279 Headquarters Rd. off Cty. Rd. Z on the east side of the marsh. BIRDING ADVENTURE boat tour ($) Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM LOCATION C Join your guide on a two-hour narrated birding adventure into the heart of the marsh by pontoon boat. Observe the birds and animals in their natural habitat. Tours depart from Blue Heron Landing, Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. Adults $20.00, Ages 5-13 $10.50 Call 920-485-4663 BIRDcamp at Marsh Haven Nature Center Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 10 AM- 3 PM Marsh Haven Nature Center A unique environmental, bird-themed day camp for children ages 7-12 that strives to foster a love and respect for the earth that lasts a lifetime. BIRDcamp offers science, games, art, drama and music all with a bird-themed focus. This curriculum is designed to inspire care and concern for the earth, in addition to helping campers learn more about our feathered friends. BIRDcamp is presented in an atmosphere of fun and camaraderie. Sign up for one day or both-$15 for one day or $25 for both days - different activities will be held each day. Held at Marsh Haven Nature Center, 3 miles east of Waupun on Hwy. 49 (W10145 State Road 49 East). Limit 20 children/day. Registration form at www.marshhaven.com or call 920-318-9518. Registration deadline May 1, 2012. BANDING NEOTROPICAL MIGRANTS Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM LOCATION D Who are they and what makes them so special? Among the many birds captured and banded at the Bird Festival are numerous Neotropical migrant birds. Join Biocore Prairie Bird Observatory,banding volunteers for this program that is a continuation of the Bird Banding Program with a discussion of the birds of two worlds - their North American breeding grounds and their tropical wintering grounds. Meet at the DNR Field Office, North Palmatory St. in Horicon. Whooping Cranes of the Horicon Marsh Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 1PM - 2PM Location B Whooping crane reintroduction efforts were expanded in 2011 to include a Direct Autumn Release of 8 chicks at Horicon National Wildlife Refuge. Join Marianne Wellington, International Crane Foundation Aviculturist/Chick Rearing Supervisor, to hear firsthand accounts of her chick training efforts – via crane costume - on the refuge and to learn more about these majestic birds and their reintroduction. Meet at the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, W4279 Headquarters Road off Cty.Rd Z on the east side of the marsh. WILD BIRDS OF PREY ($) Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM .jpg) LOCATION EHave you ever wondered what it takes to work with injured birds of prey? Have you ever wanted to see them close up? Come and listen to the popular Barb Harvey of Horicon as she gives an introduction to Wisconsin's hawks and owls. She uses slides, mounted specimens and LIVE birds in her presentation. The particular live birds may vary each day but have included a Red-tailed Hawk, Snowy Owl, Kestrels, Great Horned Owl and others. Meet at Marsh Haven Nature Center, three miles east of Waupun on Hwy. 49 on the northwest corner of the Horicon Marsh across from the National Wildlife Refuge Auto Tour. $3.00/adults/day, $2.00/child under 15/day 920-382-6770 SIGHTSEEING TOUR by boat ($) Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM LOCATION C A 1 hr. narrated pontoon boat tour of the inner Horicon Marsh, observing the birds and animals in their natural habitat. Tours depart from Blue Heron Landing, Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. Adults $11.00, Ages 4-13 $6.25 Call 920-485-4663 BIRDING ADVENTURE boat tour ($) Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM  LOCATION CJoin your guide on a two-hour narrated birding adventure into the heart of the marsh by pontoon boat. Observe the birds and animals in their natural habitat. Tours depart from Blue Heron Landing, Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. Adults $20.00, Ages 5 - 13 $10.50 Call 920-485-4663. WILD BIRDS OF PREY ($) Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM .jpg) LOCATION EHave you ever wondered what it takes to work with injured birds of prey? Have you ever wanted to see them close up? Come and listen to the popular Barb Harvey of Horicon as she gives an introduction to Wisconsin's hawks and owls. She uses slides, mounted specimens and LIVE birds in her presentation. The particular live birds may vary each day but have included a Red-tailed Hawk, Snowy Owl, Kestrels, Great Horned Owl and others. Meet at Marsh Haven Nature Center, three miles east of Waupun on Hwy. 49 on the northwest corner of the Horicon Marsh across from the National Wildlife Refuge Auto Tour. $2.00/adults/day, $1.00/child under 15/day 920-382-6770 Horicon Marsh Photo Adventure with Jack Bartholmai- Program Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 2:30- 3:30 PM Location A Watch and hear about the documentation of the first confirmed nesting of a Bufflehead in Wisconsin. See photos and videos obtained at the nestbox of this cavity nesting diving duck of the Boreal forest. Get a glimpse into the life of the hen as she incubates the eggs, broods and tends to the young in the nest. Then watch the pandemonium of the young as they play "Ring-around-the-Buffie" and climb the walls before leaping from the box into the waters of Horicon Marsh.Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Please use the entrance on the south side of the building. BEGINNING BIRDING bird hike Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 2:45 PM to 4:00 PM LOCATION A Your hike leader will be DNR Educator Liz Herzmann. This program will introduce binocular and field guide use and bird identification for the beginning birder. A short bird hike will accompany the program. The hike may be on uneven trails but rated easy. This is for ALL ages that want to learn how to bird. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Please use the entrance on the south side of the building. HOT SPOT BIRDING bus tour & hike ($) Registration Required ($)
Sunday, May 13, 2012 - 4:30 PM- 7 PM LOCATION A Using the knowledge obtained from other festival field trips, trip leaders will hit various birding locations (Hot Spots) in hopes of adding as many species as we can in the time allotted. We may even strike out on our own to a - new - birding spot not included in this year's festival! Walking on uneven trails is possible. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Bus departs at 4:30 PM SHARP.Please use the entrance on the south side of the building. *Mailed in registration with payment required. Note: The same locations may be covered as Saturday's event. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. As of 1-31-12 we have 29 seats available. HABITAT BIRDING boat & bus tour ($) Registration Required ($)
Monday, May 14, 2012 - 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM  LOCATION AThis is an all day two-part tour by bus and pontoon boat. Trip leaders will be Andy Paulois and Jeff Bahls with the use of a bus, we will bird some of the better habitat locations in and around Horicon Marsh. Our main objective is to ID as many bird species as possible. Short hikes will provide easy walking and we will "try" to stay on dry ground. After a one-hour break we will board a pontoon boat to bird the interior of Horicon Marsh. Most of our local nesting birds will be present, bolstered by our migrants that use the marsh to refuel and rest. A large and varied list of birds should be seen. Captains Marc Zuelsdorf and Jerry Genzmer will be your guides for this part of the tour. A box lunch & drink are included in the cost of this tour. Meet at the Horicon Marsh International Education Center, off of Hwy. 28 between Mayville and Horicon. Bus departs at 6:00 AM SHARP Please use the entrance on the south side of the building. and Boat departs at 3:00 PM SHARP from Blue Heron Landing "location C", Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. *Mailed in registration with payment required. This event will be held again on Monday. Contact jbahls@wildblue.net for more information. As of 1-31-12 we have 23 seat available. SIGHTSEEING TOUR by boat ($) Monday, May 14, 2012 - 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM LOCATION C A 1 hr. narrated pontoon boat tour of the inner Horicon Marsh, observing the birds and animals in their natural habitat. Tours depart from Blue Heron Landing, Hwy 33 at the bridge in downtown Horicon. Adults $11.00, Ages 4-13 $6.25 Call 920-485-4663 |
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