Field Trip #2: McCauley’s Point, Kuebler Trail to Protar’s Tomb

Description

Our excursion begins at McCauley’s Point where waterfowl and shorebirds may be observed foraging in the sandy, rolling dunes at the south end of Donegal Bay on Lake Michigan. Head inland on the trail as it winds through several habitats, including an old dune system on the west side of Barney’s Lake (Site 22 on the BIBT Map). Common Loons have nested on the lake, and Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and Caspian Terns are often seen flying over the lake. Various sandpipers, Soras, and American Bitterns have been observed along the marshy areas of the shoreline. American Woodcocks can be found along the trails above the lake, and the combination of shrubby and woodland habitats above the lake attracts many species of songbirds. Continue on the trail as it heads upland to the burial site of one of the island’s most revered inhabitants (Site 23 on the BIBT Map). This site is in the middle of the northern hardwoods habitat that is prevalent on the west side of the island. Wood warblers are especially common here along with thrush species, various woodpecker species, and Red-eyed Vireos.

Board transportation for this trip at the BIC Center. You’ll return there at the conclusion just in time for lunch. Options include the Concession Stand at the BIC Center, the Harbour Bodega and the Shamrock (both nearby) or Dalwhinnie’s Deli (about a 20-minute walk towards the Whiskey Point Lighthouse).

Please note our cancellation policy: Cancellations made by 5:00 p.m. on April 15, 2023 will receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be made for cancellations after that time.