After the vibrance and liveliness of spring, and as summer winds down, a different kind of drama plays out during the autumn months. In September the fall migration of songbirds comes to a head, with thousands of migrants on the move south before winter grips the north. This course will be a field-focused opportunity to engage in this annual event, and to explore the vast variation and distinction of fall plumages—especially warblers. As many as 15 species of warblers could make an appearance, along with an assortment of vireos, flycatchers, sparrows, and many others.

Joe Walewski has been a Wolf Ridge Naturalist since 1988 and has been managing the Graduate Naturalist Training Program for 25 years. He discovered the joy of birding a year ago. Lichens, ferns, wildflowers, and insects have been his focal points. Birding has always been something other people did in his background - a necessary part of the action on the way back to focusing on plants, insects, or anything else. A year ago that all changed and he became a birder. Join Joe for two days of birding bliss in the North Woods. Practice using the tools of the general naturalist to explore the ecology of our region while birding!

To maximize flexibility in the field, students will need to drive themselves or carpool to a variety of locations. Day 1, we will spend exploring inland territories north of Grand Marais and its diversity of boreal habitats. Day 2 will be spent along the North Shore of Lake Superior to wrap up an array of birding possibilities and scenic splendor! 

All levels welcome. Lunches are not included.  

Required Tools

• BINOCULARS!!
• Field notebook
• Your favorite birding field guide (available for purchase @ North House School Store)
• Layered, warm, light colored clothing (sweatshirts, jackets, long pants)
• Hat
• Lightweight gloves
• Rain Gear
• Sturdy footwear for hiking (trails may be wet from dew and rain)
• Insect repellant, and/or insect head net
• Sunglasses for bright outdoor sun
• Sun-block
• Water bottles
• Lunch and Snacks
• Small backpack to hold the above