Goose Pond Weekend Birding 2024

In 2024, Indiana Audubon (IAS) will present a Big Day of birding at Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area and nearby properties to gain appreciation for the diverse breeding birds that call Goose Pond home. While a single day can see many bird species in early to mid-May, this trip aims to observe the full suite of amazing birds found in the area. The goal is to log well over 100 species on what is also the Cornell Lab’s Global Big Day, promising the ultimate Goose Pond migration experience.

Goose Pond Fish & Wildlife Area (FWA), and the nearby Greene-Sullivan State Forest, boast nearly 20,000 acres of prairies, wetlands, and forest land. The ongoing habitat restoration at Goose Pond FWA has created a wildlife mecca, quickly becoming one of the state’s best birding areas and hosting an amazing array of rarities since its creation. As part of the birding, an evening bird excursion is planned for woodcocks, nightjars, and owls.

The early start on Saturday, meeting at the Goose Pond Visitor Center, will include a full day of birding and a boxed lunch at Goose Pond, followed by afternoon birding. If major targets are missed, birding early Sunday may be a possibility. Your trip leaders are Bill Sharkey and Richard Garrett, Indiana Audubon members and guides with extensive experience birding both Goose Pond and around the state.

Some of the specialty species we hope to see or hear during the weekend include: Bald Eagle, Northern Bobwhite, Chuck-wills-widow, King Rail, Black-necked Stilt, Black Tern, Least Tern, American Bittern, Bell’s Vireo, Marsh Wren, Grasshopper Sparrow, Yellow-breasted Chat, Prothonotary Warbler, Orchard Oriole, and more.

Registration is required, as Indiana Audubon trips usually fill well in advance of the trip date. Registration fees include all guiding via caravan and a boxed lunch on Saturday. Participants are responsible for transportation, lodging (if needed), and other meals during the trip.

For trip logistics questions, don’t hesitate to ask Richard Garrett ([email protected]) or Bill Sharkey ([email protected]). IAS can provide a list of lodging options for those wishing to stay Friday or Saturday night.

Birding Pace: Moderate Day Trips. Two early starts, with one longer day in the field. Seeing a diversity of birds will be of interest, while remaining fun and relaxed.

Physical Requirements: Light. Much of Goose Pond is birded near the various roadside pull offs, with 1/4 mile or less walking. Participants are never far from their vehicle.

Birding Skill Level: Beginner-Mid-Level. Extended looks at both common and uncommon species will be available to study identification and for photography. May brings the possibilities for new species that can challenge mid-level birders as well.

• Indiana Audubon coordination and trip logistics before and during the trip.
• Guiding throughout Goose Pond and nearby sites Saturday, including evening birding, and Sunday morning.
• Lunch on Saturday.

• Indiana Audubon Member: $139.00 per person*
• Non-IAS Member: $169.00 per person*

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Photo: Black-necked Stilt by Ryan Sanderson, Dickcissel by Shari McCollough

Host or Publisher Indiana Audubon Society