Spring Wildlife Walk
Saturday, April 26 · 7 - 8:30pm
Rt 113 Fryeburg, ME
Join an MDIFW wildlife biologist at the Gregory Sanborn Wildlife Management Area (WMA) and learn about the American woodcock, aka the timberdoodle. This secretive ground bird has a dramatic sky dance and a buzzy call that many in Maine look forward to hearing each spring. Except during spring mating season, this bird is hard to spot due to being a master of camouflage. During this walk we will talk about the importance of managing land for wildlife and how it benefits many species from woodcock to deer, and even butterflies. We will end our walk with the last light of the day and hope to spot the woodcock doing his mating display in the sky and listen for the tell tale "peent."
*Easy-moderate walk less than one mile including some uneven terrain and possible trail obstructions to go around.
Meet at Gregory Sanborn WMA (also called Brownfield WMA), entrance off Route 113 in Fryeburg just south of Lyman Dr. on the west (right) side of Route 113 heading south out of town. Look for the MDIFW sign, and drive in the entrance a short distance to the parking area.
Be sure to wear sturdy and comfortable footwear such as sneakers or hiking boots. Bring walking sticks as desired and based on your experience. Also dress for the weather (non-cotton is best and dress in layers). Bring water, a light snack if desired, and bug spray. Binoculars are not required but can be useful if you have a pair. A few pairs may be available to borrow if needed.
This walk will start near sunset as the woodcock prefers the dramatic backlighting of the last rays of the setting sun to contrast his aerial display. Please bring a flashlight to use as needed.
Pets are not allowed on these guided wildlife walks, but service animals are welcome. Please be sure to leave pets at home since weather conditions vary by season and vehicles can become uninhabitable quickly for those left unattended inside vehicles.
Trails may have uneven terrain due to the nature of outdoor trails and could include but not limited to lose substrate, hard or uneven surfaces, logs, roots, rocks, wet, damp, or slippery, have an incline, fallen trees, or other trail hazards and variable conditions. We will do our best to accommodate and guide you through. Please plan accordingly and be prepared. We ask that you use your best judgement based on your abilities.
If you have questions, please email [email protected] or call 207-287-8000.
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