Field Trip Report: Indian Ridge Marsh

Trip participants scan Indian Ridge Marsh for waterfowl.

words by Jake Vinsel

photos by Dan Crosser

April 6, 2024

On Saturday, April 6, ten participants joined a fun birding adventure led by guides Stephanie Beilke and Jake Vinsel at Indian Ridge Marsh in the Calumet Region. The excursion took place on a crisp morning. It provided a chance to explore the habitats of the area and observe both springtime arrivals and resident birds.

With anticipation and curiosity, the group embarked on their journey on the north side of Indian Ridge Marsh. Here the group picked up a number of species, including American Robin, Red-winged Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle, Killdeer, and American Kestrel, to name a few. The group then drove slowly to the south parking area, getting good looks at Ringed-Neck Ducks, Common Mergansers, and Bufflehead along the drive.

Downy Woodpecker.

On the south side, things really started to pick up. Here the group spotted a number of waterfowl species including Wood Duck, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, a single American Wigeon, Mallards, Green-winged Teal, and Hooded Mergansers. The group also spotted a Pied-billed Grebe, a Caspian Tern, and a number of Eastern Phoebes. Throughout the morning, the group was treated to an array of bird sightings, highlighting the richness of biodiversity present in the Lake Calumet Region. A total of 43 species was observed.

Caspian Tern.

As the morning drew to a close, participants said their goodbyes and shared their enthusiasm for the walk. The COS bird walk at Indian Ridge Marsh was a success, offering participants an opportunity to connect with nature and deepen their appreciation for the birds of the Lake Calumet Region.