A Memorable Bird Hike on May 11, 2024
On Saturday, May 11, 2024, we attended our first bird hike at the Northland Arboretum in Baxter, MN. This event, held from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM, offered a delightful experience of bird watching in a serene and beautiful setting.
Location:
Address: 14250 Conservation Dr, Baxter, MN 56425, USA
Upcoming Bird Hike Dates
For those interested in future bird hikes, here are the upcoming dates:
Wednesdays: May 15, 22, and 29
Saturdays: May 18 and 25
About the Event
The bird hikes are sponsored by the Brainerd Lakes Audubon Society. The event is free for members, while non-members pay a $5 gate fee. Binoculars are provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own. Pre-registration is required, and the class fee is non-refundable.
For more information on upcoming classes and events, visit the Northland Arboretum website.
Our Experience
Located just a short distance from Nisswa, we were warmly greeted by Catherine and Michael, the event leaders. They introduced themselves as the "leader" and the "checklist keeper" respectively. As each participant arrived, introductions were made, and binoculars and checklists with pencils were offered if needed.
The group was a mix of novice bird watchers and experienced enthusiasts. As we embarked from the Visitor Center towards the creek, the sounds of various birds filled the air. The more experienced bird watchers in the group generously shared their knowledge, identifying birds by their chirps and songs, and offering tips to beginners like me.
The well-groomed trails of the Northland Arboretum provided not only a fantastic bird-watching experience but also showcased the natural beauty of the area. We saw only a fraction of what this special place has to offer, but it was evident that a lot of dedication has gone into making the Arboretum a gem for outdoor recreation.
By the end of the hike, our checklist was completed with 33 species of birds. We hope to check off even more species on our next visit! Additionally, we are excited to return and try out the Outdoor Fitness Trail, perhaps swapping our binoculars and camera for running shoes next time.
Final Thoughts
The bird hike at the Northland Arboretum was a wonderful experience that combined the joy of bird watching with the beauty of nature. We highly recommend it to anyone interested in birding or simply looking to enjoy a peaceful morning outdoors.
Join them on their upcoming hikes to explore more of what the Northland Arboretum has to offer and to discover the rich birdlife in the area. Happy bird watching!
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