2011 Birding Guide

7/28/2019 2011 Birding Guide

1/32

1


2/32

2


3/32

3

Table of contentsBirding the Dunes 5

Migration Sensation 5

Birding Hot Spots 6

Indiana Dunes Country Map 18

Viewing Tips 24

Birding Ethics 24Indiana Dunes Country Birders Checklist 25

Green Heron

Yellow Warbler


4/32

4

The dunes are to the Midwest whatthe Grand Canyon is to Arizona.They constitute a signature of timeand eternity.

Carl Sandburg

Red-bellied Woodpecker


5/32

5

Birdingthe DunesFew places in the Midwest rival Indiana Dunes Country for

great birding. More than 350 bird species live or migratethrough heredrawn to the open waters of Lake Michigan

and to a landscape of beaches, dunes, woodlands, wet-

lands, and prairie.

Were perhaps best known for our spectacular migrations

when you can witness 10,000 Sandhill Cranes in a singleautumn afternoon, tally a hundred hawks soaring over

the dunes in the springtime, or catch a once-in-a-lifetime

glimpse of a Whooping Crane. But here in Indiana Dunes

Country, birding also oers year-round discoveries and

adventures.

Migration SensationWhy do so many birds migrate through Indiana Dunes

Country? It is because of Lake Michigan. This immense

body of water profoundly affects the flight routes of

migratory birds. In fall, migratory birds that have nested inthe north follow the long shores of Lake Michigan south.

They converge at the bottom of the lakeright here in

the Indiana Dunes. Some simply stop here for a while to

rest and feed. Othersincluding bay and sea duck species

seldom recorded elsewhere in the Midweststay here for

the winter on the open waters of the lake.

Migrating hawks and other raptors avoid ying over large

bodies of open water, since the cool water does not cre-

ate the thermal wind currents on which the raptors glide.

When they y north in springtime, they funnel along the

edge of the lake, rather than ying over it, so that hundreds

pass over the Indiana Dunes in a single day. Though autumn

raptor migration is less dramatic, since their arrival is more

dispersed, notable numbers of Peregrine Falcons stream

through this region in early October.

*The Indiana Audubon Society website, www.indianaaudu-

bon.org, provided much of the birding information in this

guide. Visit their website for more in-depth information on

birds and birding in the Indiana Dunes region.
http://www.indianaaudubon.org%2C/http://www.indianaaudubon.org%2C/http://www.indianaaudubon.org%2C/http://www.indianaaudubon.org%2C/


6/32

6

Birding Hot SpotsWhile you can watch birds at dozens of natural areas within the

Indiana Dunes region, a few of these sites oer truly outstand-

ing viewing. In this guide weve detailed the birding opportuni-ties at the regions top 13 birding hot spots. In fact, ten of these

are Audubon-designated Important Bird Areas and ve are

considered globally signicant. (More about this in Watch List-

below).

Refer to the map on pages 18 and 19 to locate each site. Stopby the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center to pick up a copy of the

Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail guide, which provides driving

directions, hours of operation, etc. for these birding hot spots.

Note: Important Bird AreaSite designated by the National Audubon Society as providing

essential habitat for one or more species of birds. Sites are fur-

ther designated as being of state, national, or global signicance.

Note: WatchList

In 2007, the American Bird Conservancy and National Audu-bon Society teamed up to create the United States WatchList

of Birds of Conservation Concern, identing species in great-

est need of conservation aention.


7/32

7

Birding SitesBeverly Shores

Habitat

Located on the shore of Lake Michigan, this Important Bird

Area includes both open water and beach habitat, but its mostunique draw is its rare interdunal marsh. Interdunal marsh oc-

curs between old dune crests, formed before the last glacial re-

cession of Lake Michigan, and the current lakeside dune crests.

Birds

Several state-endangered species nest in the interdunal marsh,including King Rail, Virginia Rail, Common Moorhen, and

American Biern. Other uncommon nesting species seen here

include Willow and Alder ycatchers, Marsh Wren, Prairie

Warbler, and Prothonotary Warbler. On the open water, watch

for migrating loons, grebes, diving ducks, jaegers, and gulls. Bird-

ers consider this among the best lakefront locations for seeing

Northern Shrike in winter and know it as Shrike Alley.

Access Tip

Free. Park in Lake View Picnic Area to bird the open water

and beach. Bike or bird from your vehicle along Beverly Drive

(particularly the west end), which bisects the interdunal habitat.Please observe no-parking rules on public roadways and respect

private property boundaries.

Cowles BogHabitat

Considered a globally signicant Important Bird Area, Cowles

Bog is actually a fen, not a true bog (which has no inow or

outow of water, other than precipitation). The fen itself is

o-limits to the public, but trails traverse several uncommonhabitats, including tamarack and white pine woodlands, black

oak savanna, interdunal wetlands, red maple and yellow birch

lowland forest, and a pristine beach along Lake Michigan.

Birds

The site supports several nesting wetland birds that are spe-cies of conservation concern in Indiana, including American

Biern, Sandhill Crane, Lile Blue Heron, Black-crowned

Night Heron, Virginia Rail, American Black Duck, and a sig-

nicant population of Marsh Wren. Other uncommon species

seen here include Whip-poor-will, American Woodcock, Soli-

tary Sandpiper, Sedge Wren, and Rusty Blackbird. Be sure toallow time to hike the trails, which will lead you through several

distinct habitats.

Access Tip

Free.

B

A


8/32

8

Hammond Lakefront Park

and Bird SanctuaryHabitat

Neotropical songbirds hug the shore of Lake Michigan during

migration and funnel through Hammond Lakefront Park and

Bird Sanctuary in astonishing numbers. Thats why birders have

long referred to this site as The Migrant Trap. Though just 16acres in size and surrounded by industry, the park provides a

critical stopover for migrants, oering a mix of grass, woodland,

and beach habitats. It is part of the State Line/Calumet Region

Important Bird Area.

BirdsYoull see a host of migrating songbirds here in spring and fall,

including wrens, thrushes, vireos, warblers, and sparrows. Spe-

cic species of note seen here include Connecticut Warbler,

Mourning Warbler, Clay-colored Sparrow, LeContes Sparrow,

Long- and Short-eared owls (rare), and Eared Grebe.

Access Tip

Free. Turn into the Horseshoe Casino entrance and take an im-

mediate right at the end of the entrance ramp. The parking lot

is gated and visitors need to show ID. While there are three en-

trances to the site, two may be locked depending on time of year.

The entrance on the far eastern end of the site is always open.

Indiana Dunes State Park

Habitat

More than 2,000 acres of lake, beach, foredunes, dune forests,swamps, prairie, and savanna habitat make up this Important

Bird Area. Of the parks 16.5 miles of trails, trails #2 and #10 are

birding favorites. Trail #2 circles the Great Marsh on a mile-

long boardwalk. Trail #10 traverses dune, beach, woodland,

and savanna habitats. The bird observation area near the west

parking lot oers good views of migrating birds.

Birds

On Trail #2, watch for such woodland birds as Hooded Warbler,

Veery, and Red-shouldered Hawk (a pair has nested here in

the past near the Wilson Shelter). The park aracts breeding

birds more commonly found farther south (including WatchListspecies Prairie Warbler and Louisiana Waterthrush) as well as

more northerly species (Canada and Blackburnian warblers).

Migration sightings include such WatchList species as Kirt-

lands, Golden-winged, and Bay-breasted warblers. The west

lot observation area is known for several state record species

counts in the spring, including Blue Jay, Scarlet Tanager, and

Baltimore Oriole.

Access Tip

Entrance fee.

C

D


9/32

Chesterton Feed& Garden CenterChesterton Feed and Garden Center, celebrating its 30th year ofbusiness in the Duneland area, has a fully stocked nursery with a wide

assortment of perennials, annuals, trees and shrubs. Their gift area is lled

with nature gifts including home, lawn and yard dcor. The knowledgeable

sta can help you create a beautiful water garden that will turn an ordinary

space into an extraordinary oasis.

Chesterton Feed and Garden Centers selection of bird feeders

and bird houses will attract birds of all kinds to your backyard. They carry

a wide variety of healthy and nutritious seed and suet to keep your birds

happy and healthy. And their selection of pet food, treats and toys makes

Chesterton Feed and Garden Center one of the few stores in the area

that has the health and wellness of your pet in mind. Finally, the profes-sional help and personable service you experience will make you one of

their many satised and loyal customers.

Hours: MonFri 9:00 a.m.6:00 p.m.;

Sat 9:00 a.m.5:00 p.m.; Sun 10:00 a.m.4:00 p.m.

Address: 400 Locust St, Chesterton, IN 46304

Phone: 219-926-2790

Website: ChestertonFeed.com

Everything you needto complete yourgardening experience.

9

Youll want to stay a few days, so dont forget to book

accommodations. See page 21 for more information.


10/32

10

Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area

Habitat8,062-acre Jasper-Pulaski forms the core of a globally signi-

cant Important Bird Area that covers some 30,000 acres. This

State Fish & Wildlife Area has a mix of wetlands, elds, oak

ats, and savanna.

BirdsJasper-Pulaski is renowned in the Midwest for its spectacular

fall congregations of Sandhill Cranes. On the Indiana Dunes

State Parks annual Sandhill Crane Field Trip, birders will learn

about the cranes history and view up to 28,000 birds returning

to Jasper-Pulaski for the evening roost. The eld trip is ranger-

led, and is held annually in late Novembercheck Indiana-

Dunes.com/Birding for more information. Critically endangered

Whooping Cranes have also stopped at this site during fall

migration in recent years. While cranes are obviously the big-

gest draw, the sites diverse habitats aract many other birds,

including WatchList species like the Red-headed Woodpecker.

Access Tip

Free. An observation tower provide good views of cranes in

autumn. Visitors must check in at the headquarters oce.

E


11/32

Inspire your

soul in 300acres ofnatures beauty.

Taltree Arboretum

The phrase a picturesque oasis of Mother Natures skill

would prey much be a pitch-perfect description for TaltreeArboretum. This meticulously cultivated preserve takes the

roughing it out of nature while still maintaining its wild beauty.

Its a great place to escape with a shing rod, binoculars

or a picnic basket and wander along manicured walking trails,

scenic waterfronts and landscaped prairies. Its ve gardensin

particular the Audrey M. & Leonard J. Hitz Family Rose Garden

are worth the trip alone.

While youre there, be sure to take a walk along the

Bluebird hiking trail and visit the iconic Queens of the Prairie,

two 200-year-old Bur Oaks that are the oldest trees in the

arboretum.

Hours:NovemberMarch: MonSun 10 a.m.4 p.m.AprilOctober:Mon-Sun; 8 a.m.7 p.m.; TuesSat 8 a.m.7 p.m.Address: 450 W. 100 North, Valparaiso IN 46385

Phone:219-462-0025Website:taltree.org

Magnolia Warbler

11


12/32

12

These Dunes of ours know thebirds of the four winds. Out ofthe North in winter the redpollsand crossbills drive; from the Eastsoar with summer the prairie war-bler and the acadian ycatcher;

up from the South on wings ofleisure dri the Bewicks wren andtitmouse; from the broad West,ying far, come the willet and theHenslows sparrow

Edward Ford,ornithologist,Reminiscences of Birds of theDunes Country (1935)

Great Blue Heron


13/32

13

Kankakee Fish & Wildlife Area

Habitat

Over 4,000 acres of riparian woodlands, wetlands,

marsh, and farmland surround roughly six miles of the

Kankakee River within this globally signicant Impor-

tant Bird Area. Though the river was channelized and

much of the surrounding wetlands drained for farming

in the late 1800s, managers have worked to restore

native habitat here.

Birds

This diverse site supports breeding birds typicallyfound farther south (like Acadian Flycatcher, and

Yellow-throated and Prothonotary warblers) as well

as birds typical of northern locales (Rose-breasted

Grosbeak, American Redstart, and Chestnut-sided

Warbler). Watch for migrant ducks and shorebirds

along Ten Mile Road in spring, and even nesting Bald

Eagles. Sightings here include Sora, Wilsons Phala-

rope, American Golden-plover, Pectoral Sandpiper,

and Whooping Crane.

Access Tip

Free. One-way Ten Mile Road starts at the North

Entrance and follows the Kankakee River, oering great

birding along its length. It may be closed in spring if

ooding is severe. Best birding between January and

July, as autumn is hunting season.

F


14/32

14

Kankakee Sands

Habitat

Owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy (TNC),

7,209-acre Kankakee Sands forms the core of the globally

signicant Kankakee Sands Important Bird Area. TNC is work-

ing to restore the native mosaic of marsh wetlands and prai-

rie here. This includes wet sand prairie, a globally signicant

natural community.

Birds

Many grassland species nest here, including Henslows and

Grasshopper sparrows, Dickcissel, Bobolink, and Eastern

Meadowlark. Springtime ooding draws migratory shorebirds,

including American Golden-plover and Marbled Godwit. Sight-

ings include Wilsons Phalarope, Upland Sandpiper, King Rail,

and American Biern.

Access Tip

Free. Site maps available at the Kankakee Sands Project oce

at 3294 North US 41.

Marquee ParkHabitat

Part of an Important Bird Area, Marquee Park is considered

one of the most critical sites for migrating waterfowl, shore-

birds, and waterbirds in Indiana. Migratory birds ying primarily

from the west side of Lake Michigan funnel through this site,which provides open water, beach, and oak woodland habitat.

Birds

Three kinds ofjaegars stop hereParasitic, Pomarine, and

Long-tailedmaking it one of the best jaegar-viewing sites in

the Midwest. In autumn, all four expected tern species (seebird list), plus an occasional rare tern, congregate here. Diving

ducks and loons gather by the thousands o-shore. WatchList

shorebirds like Piping Plover, Red Knot, Hudsonian Godwit,

and Bu-breasted Sandpiper migrate through here as well.

Access TipFree.

Bobolink

G

H


15/32

15

Miller Woods

Habitat

Black Oak savanna dominates this nearly 1,000-acre Impor-

tant Bird Area. This re-dependent mosaic of oaks and prairie

habitat is now uncommon in the region. The site also includes

interdunal ponds, marsh, high dunes, and lagoons. Because of

its location at the extreme southern tip of Lake Michigan, as

well as the lack of habitat in surrounding industrial sites, Miller

Woods draws great concentrations of migratory birds funneling

along the edge of Lake Michigan, especially in autumn.

Birds

Many neotropical species stop here during migration, includ-

ing such WatchList species as Wood Thrush, Golden-winged

Warbler, and Canada Warbler.

Access Tip

Free. Parking for Miller Woods is at the Paul Douglas Center.

Port of Indiana

Habitat

The highly industrial nature of this site provides a totally

unique, non-traditional birding experience. The breakwalls and

other structures around the harbor make a good resting spot

for birds. In winter, Burns Harbor provides one of the most

reliable locations in the region for viewing bay ducks, which are

drawn to the ports deep waters. Twelve steel processors formthe backdrop to the birding experience at this site. Due to high

security, photography is prohibited.

Birds

Spring, fall, and winter oer the best viewing at the port. Bird-

ers note particularly good sightings here on windy days duringfall migration, when waterfowl stream over the ports public ac-

cess area. Watch for White-winged, Black, and Surf scoters in

autumn. In winter, youll usually see bay ducks as long as open

water is available. Look for Harlequin Ducks near the outer

breakwalls. Birders consider the Port one of the best sites in

the region to see Great Black-backed Gulls in winter. Watch

for them on the breakwalls, where Snowy Owls have also been

seen in winter.

Access Tip

Free. Because the site is located within the Port of Indiana,

most of the area is o-limits to the public. Visitors to the one-

acre public access point must check in at the security gate-

house, show ID, and bird only from the parking lot.

I

J


16/32

16

Taltree Arboretum & Gardens

Habitat

The stewards of this 360-acre site have conserved and re-

stored a mix of native habitats, including oak-hickory wood-

lands, savanna, wetlands, and prairie.

Birds

Taltree is one of the best sites in the area to view sparrows,

including Sananna, Song, Grasshopper, Henslows, Vesper, and

Field sparrows. In the prairie area, watch and listen for nesting

Bobolink, Eastern Bluebird, and Coopers Hawk. Watch for

Yellow-billed and Black-billed cuckoos in the wetlands area.The savanna area oen yields Whip-poor-will, American Wood-

cock, owls, and many warbler species. Exciting recent sightings

include Golden Eagle.

Access Tip

Entrance fee.

K


17/32

West Beach

Habitat

The West Beach Important Bird Area includes nearby Inland

Marsh and Long Lake, encompassing 1,500 acres of deep water,

beach, dunes, woodlands (including an uncommon jack pine

forest), savanna, emergent marsh, panne (interdunal pond fed

by groundwater), and lake habitat.

Birds

Though you can see a variety of birds year-round at West

Beach, fall and winter provide some of the best viewing.

Indiana Audubon describes West Beach as typically the only

location in the state to see Long-eared Owl, Red Crossbill,

and Common Redpoll on a late fall or winter day.

Watch for large congregations of Red-breasted Merganser

and Common Loon, as well as less common waterbirds likeRed-throated Loon and Western Grebe. Many raptors migrate

through here as well, including Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier,

Sharp-shinned and Red-shouldered hawks, and Peregrine

Falcon.

Access TipNational Park Service site, fee in summer.

Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area

Habitat

This globally signicant Important Bird Area encompasses

roughly 10,000 acres, including 1,500-acre J.C. Murphey Lake

and surrounding marshlands, shrublands, oak savanna, pin oak

ats, sand prairie, and sedge meadow.

Birds

In 2009, the state record count for White Pelicans occurred

at Willow Slough. J.C. Murphey Lake aracts immense con-

gregations of migrants and breeding birds, including grebes,

dabbling ducks, diving ducks, swans, geese, Bald Eagle, and

Osprey. Neighboring Pogue Marsh draws migrating Rusty

Blackbirds (WatchList species), as well as Least Biern,Common Moorhen, Virginia Rail, Sandhill Crane, and Marsh

Wren. Shrub habitat supports breeding populations of Willow

Flycatcher, Bells Vireo, and Sedge Wren. Oak savanna aracts

such WatchList species as Red-headed Woodpecker and Wood

Thrush.

Access Tip

Free.

L

M

17


18/32

18

65

41

12

30

20

231

231

41

41

51

312

55

73

53

912

55

2

152

90

80

65

E 37thAve

E10thStS

he

ffieldA

ve

Cli

neAve

NL

akePark

Ave

Wh

it

eOak

Ave

Kankakee

River

Gary-Chicago

International

Airport

Griffith-Merrillville

Airport

L A K E

C O U N T Y

Roselawn

Winfield

Schneider

Ne w

Chicago

Whiting

St. John

Lowell

Lakes of

the FourSeasons

Lake

Dalecarlia

Cedar Lake

Hobart

Crown Point

DyerGriffith

Highland

LakeStation

Munster

Schererville

Merrillville

Hammond

East Chicago

Gary

HI

C

G

M

Lake Michigan


19/32

19

80

12

12

231

30

20

20

6

149

49

2

2

130

2

10

49

8

249

50

50

800

125

600

200

700

450

1275

725

900

1350

600

750

300

400

1100

100

150

400

350

1400

1500

1225

WaverlyRd

AirportRd

Evans Ave

Calu

met

Ave

CountyLine

Rd

Stone Ave

PortageAve

WillowcreekRd

N

500

E

N500W

Meridian

Rd

W 500 N

CampbellSt

EBeverl

yDr

Central Ave

VisitorCenter

Indiana Dunes National

Lakeshore

94

VisitorCenter

Dune Acres

Porter County

Municipal

Airport

JASPERC O U N T Y

P O R T E R C O U N T Y

BurnsHarbor

Kouts

Ogden Dunes

Wheatfield

Porter

Hebron

Chesterton

De

Motte

Valparaiso

Portage

0

0

2.5

2.5

5 miles

5 kilometers

N

S

EW m a p d at a 2 01 0 T e le A t l as

A

B

J

L

D

E

F

K


20/32

20

20

American Kestrel

Meadowlark


21/32

AccommodationsSleep out under the stars, snuggle up at a bed

& breakfast, or get pampered at a hotel and

spa. Whatever the choice, your only lament

will be realizing you have to go home.

PriceRange

$-lessthan$50,

$$-$50-$100,

$$$-$100+

#Rooms

/Campsites

Indoor/OutdoorPool

(IP/OP)

Fu

ll/ContinentalBrea

kfast(FB/CB)

HighSpee

dInternet(

Y)

PetsAllowe

d(P)Non-Smo

king

(N)

Accessible

Duneland Communities

Al and Sallys Motel3221 W. Dunes Highway Michigan City (Pines)219-872-9131 219-872-9132alandsallysmotelinc.com

$$ 16 OP Y N X

At Home in the Woods898 North 350 E. Chesterton219-728-1325athomeinthewoodsbb.com

$$$ 3 OP FB Y N

Best Western Indian Oak558 Indian Boundary Rd. Chesterton219-926-2200indianoak.com

$$$ 62 IP FB Y N X

Blackhawk Motel3651 W. Dunes Highway Michigan City (Pines)219-872-8656

$$ 20 OP N X

Chesterton Motel418 Council Drive Chesterton219-929-5549

$ 49 CB Y X

Comfort Inn & Suites1800 W US 20 Porter219-787-1400comfortinn.com

$$$ 70 IP CB Y N X

DunesWalk Inn1491 North Furnleigh Lane Chesterton

219-728-6393duneswalkinn.com

$$$ 5 Y N X

Dunewood Campground(National Park Service)US 12 & Broadway Beverly Shores219-395-1882 nps.gov/indu

$ 78 P X

Econo Lodge713 Plaza Drive Chesterton

219-929-4416choicehotels.com

$$ 41 CB Y P X

Gray Goose Inn350 Indian Boundary Rd. Chesterton219-926-5781 800-521-5127graygooseinn.com

$$$ 8 OP FB Y PN

Hilton Garden Inn501 Gateway Boulevard Chesterton

219-983-9500chesterton.hgi.com

$$$ 120 IP CB Y N X

Indiana Dunes State Park CampgroundIN-49 North of US 12 Chesterton866-622-6746camp.in.gov

$ 140 P X

Inspiration Wood1199 N. 650 E. Westville

219-983-9922inspirationwood.com

$$$ 7 Y N X

Rileys Railhouse123 N 4th Street Chesterton219-395-9999rileysrailhouse.com

$$$ 2 FB Y N X

Sandcreek Campground1000 North 350 E. Chesterton

219-926-7482sandcreekcampground.com

$ 150 OP Y PN X

Spring House Inn303 North Mineral Springs Rd. Porter219-929-4600springhouseinn.com

$$$ 50 IP CB Y N X

Waterbird Lakeside Inn & Spa556 Indian Boundary Rd. Chesterton888-957-3529waterbirdinn.com

$$$ 22 IP CB Y N X


22/32

22

PriceRange

$-lessthan$50,

$$-$50-$100

,$$$-$100+

#R

ooms

/Campsites

Indoor/OutdoorPoo

l(IP/OP)

Fu

ll/ContinentalBrea

kfast(F

B/CB)

Hig

hSpee

dInternet(Y)

Pe

tsAllowe

d(P)Non-Smo

kin

g(N)

Ac

cessible

PortageBest Western Portage Hotel& Suites6200 Melton Rd. Portage

219-734-6727

bestwestern.com

$$ 100 IP CB Y N X

Comfort Inn2300 Willowcreek Rd. Portage219-763-7177

choicehotels.com

$$$ 52 CB Y P X

Country Inn & Suites Portage1630 Olmsted Drive Portage

219-764-0021

countryinns.com/portagein

$$$ 100 IP CB Y N X

Days Inn6161 Melton Rd. (US 20) Portage

219-762-2136daysinn.com

$$ 119 IP Y N X

Deluxe Travel Inn & Suites6101 Melton Rd. (US 20) Portage

219-763-3121

$$ 100 OP Y P X

Dollar Inn6140 Melton Rd. (US 20) Portage

219-763-6601

$ 50 P X

Hampton Inn6353 Melton Rd. (US 20) Portage

219-764-1919hamptoninn.com

$$$ 60 IP CB Y N X

Holiday Inn Express2323 Willowcreek Rd. Portage

219-762-7777hiexpress.com

$$ 76 IP CB Y PN X

Super 8 Motel6118 Melton Rd. Portage219-762-8857super8.com

$$ 65 CB Y PN X

Yogi Bears Jellystone Camp Resort5520 Old Porter Rd. Portage800-558-2954 #128campjellystone-portage.com

$ 926 OP P X


23/32

23

PriceRange

$-lessthan$50,

$$-$50-$100

,$$$-$100+

#R

ooms

/Campsites

Indoor/OutdoorPoo

l(IP/OP)

Fu

ll/ContinentalBrea

kfast(F

B/CB)

Hig

hSpee

dInternet(Y)

Pe

tsAllowe

d(P)Non-Smo

kin

g(N)

Ac

cessible

ValparaisoCountry Inn & Suites Valparaiso2020 LaPorte Avenue Valparaiso

219-476-0000

countryinns.com/valpoin

$$$ 59 IP CB Y N X

Courtyard by Marriott

2301 E. Morthland Drive Valparaiso219-465-1700

courtyard.com/vrpcy

$$$ 111 OP

IP

FB Y PN X

Fairfeld Inn & Suites2101 East Morthland Drive Valparaiso

219-465-6225

faireldinn.com/vrp

$$$ 63 IP CB Y N X

Hampton Inn & Suites1451 Silhavy Rd. Valparaiso

219-531-6424

hamptoninn.com

$$$ 77 IP FB Y N X

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites1251 Silhavy Rd. Valparaiso

219-464-9395 888-897-0084hiexpress.com

$$$ 85 IP CB Y N X

Inn at Aberdeen3158 S. State Rd. 2 Valparaiso219-465-3753innataberdeen.com

$$$ 11 OP FB Y PN X

Songbird Prairie

174 North 600 W. Valparaiso219-759-4274 877-SONGBRDsongbirdprairie.com

$$$ 5 FB Y N X

Super 8 Motel3005 John Howell Drive Valparaiso219-464-9840 super8.com

$$ 58 IP CB Y N X

KoutsDonna Jo Campground1255 South 350 E. Kouts

219-766-2186 donnajocampground.com

$ 75 OP P X

Bed & Breakfast Campgrounds

Hotels/Motels Cottages


24/32

24

1. Early morning is optimal bird-viewing time. Evening is also

good. Bird activity drops during midday hours.

2. Binoculars and a good birding eld guide are essential. A

spoing scope can be very useful as well, particularly forviewing waterfowl and shorebirds.

3. Birding by ear is a helpful skill, especially for identifying

songbirds. You can hone your skills with any number of

audio recordings and downloadable soware.

4. Join a local birding outing. Contact Indiana Dunes State

Park, Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, Indiana

Audubon Society, or Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore for

information.

Indiana Dunes State Park 219-926-1952,www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm

Indiana Dunes Visitor Center 800-283-8687, www.indianadunes.com

Indiana Audubon Society www.indianaaudubon.org

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 219-926-7561,hp://www.nps.gov/indu

Birding Ethics1. Respect wildlife homesleave nests and their occupants as

you found them.

2. In no-hunt areas, blend in with your surroundingswear

neutral-colored clothing and move slowly and quietly.

3. Avoid the use of recordings, calls, or whistles to aract

birds, as they can disrupt the birds normal feeding, mating,

and brood-rearing activities.

4. View birds from a distance to avoid disturbing them.

5. Stay on trails; respect private property.

6. Share your lunch only with other humans.

7. If possible, leave pets at home.

Weather Watch

Migrating birds tend to y during fair weather, especially when

they have a good wind helping them along. In autumn, youll

oen see especially high numbers of migrating songbirds andwater birds during or immediately following the passage of a

cold front through the Indiana Dunes region. In spring, youll

tend to see the most migrating raptors on days with a strong

southerly wind.

Viewing Tips
http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htmhttp://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htmhttp://www.indianadunes.com/http://www.indianaaudubon.org/http://www.indianaaudubon.org/http://%20http//www.nps.gov/induhttp://%20http//www.nps.gov/induhttp://%20http//www.nps.gov/induhttp://www.indianaaudubon.org/http://www.indianadunes.com/http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm


25/32

Prothonotary Warbler

25

Indiana Dunes Country

Birders Checklist

Seasonal Abundance Codes:A=A Oen observed and widespread

throughout county

C=C Frequent in appropriate habitat

U=U Infrequent in appropriate habitat

R=R Unlikely, but possible in county

Habitat TypesB-BEACHLake Michigan beach.

D-DUNESSand dunes located immediately inland of Lake

Michigan beaches.

F-FIELDCultivated and roadside eld, open area, and/or prairie.

FL-FLIGHTObserved in ight.

L-LAKELake Michigan.

M-MARSHWetland with predominantly grassy (non-woody)

vegetation.

P-PONDPermanent body of water, including small lakes, ponds,

and wetlands.

S-SWAMPWetland with more trees and shrubs than a marsh.

U-URBANUrban area.

W-WOODSTreed area.

WE-WOODEDEDGES The interface between woods and

another habitat.


26/32

SPRING

FALL

HABITAT

Loon & GrebesqRed-Throated Loon U R U U LqCommon Loon C R C R LqPied-billed Grebe C C C R M,PqHorned Grebe U C R L,H CormorantsqDouble-crested Cormorant C U C R L Bierns & HeronsqAmerican Biern* U U U R MqLeast Biern* R R R MqGreat Blue Heron A A A R M,PqGreat Egret C U C R MqGreen Heron C C C M,PqBlack-crowned* Night Heron U U U MqYellow-crowned* Night Heron U U U M Swans, Geese & DucksqMute Swan C C C C L,PqTundra Swan U U R LqCanada Goose A A A A L,M,PqWood Duck A A C R P,SqGreen-winged Teal C R U R M,PqBlack Duck C R C U L,MqMallard A A A C L,P,M,qNorthern Pintail U R U R M,PqBlue-winged Teal C U C R M,PqNorthern Shoveler C R U R M,PqGadwall C R C R M,PqAmerican Wigeon C R C R M,PqCanvasback U R R U M,PqRedhead C R U R L,PqRing-necked Duck C R C R M,PqGreater Scaup U R U U L,PqLesser Scaup C R C U L,PqBlack Scoter R R U R LqWhite-winged Scoter R R U R LqCommon Goldeneye C R C A LqBuehead C R C A LqHooded Merganser U R U R LqCommon Merganser U R U C LqRed-breasted Merganser C R C U L,PqRuddy Duck C R U R L,P VulturesqTurkey Vulture A A C R FL Eagles & HawksqBald Eagle* U R R R FLqNorthern Harrier* U R U R FqSharp-shinned Hawk C C C C WE,WqCoopers Hawk C C C C WE,WqNorthern Goshawk R R R R WqRed-shouldered Hawk U R U R WEqBroad-winged Hawk U U U U WqRed-tailed Hawk C C C C F,WEqRough-legged Hawk U U U U F,M Osprey & FalconsqOsprey* U R U R LqAmerican Kestrel C C C C FqPeregrine Falcon* C C C C FL

SUMMER

WINTER

* State endangered

26

Indiana Dunes CountryBirders Checklist


27/32

SPRING

FALL

HABITAT

SUMMER

WINTER

Quail, Pheasant, TurkeyqNorthern Bobwhite R R R R F,WEqRing-necked Pheasant U U U U FqWild Turkey U U U U F,W

Rails & CootsqVirginia Rail* U U U U MqSora Rail C U U MqCommon Moorhen R R R MqAmerican Coot A A A U M,P,L

CraneqSandhill Crane (Jasper-Pulaski Site) C U C U F,M Plovers

qBlack-bellied Plover U R U B,PqAmerican Golden Plover C R U B,PqSemipalmated Plover U R U B,PqPiping Plover* R R R BqKilldeer A A C R M,D,F

Sandpipers & otherShorebirds

qGreaterYellowlegs U R R M,PqLesser Yellowlegs U U U M,PqSolitary Sandpiper C U U MqSpoed Sandpiper C C U M,SqSemipalmated Sandpiper U R C B,PqLeast Sandpiper U U U B,PqPectoral Sandpiper C R U M,PqBairds Sandpiper R U BqRuddy Tumstone U R U Bq

Sanderling R C C BqDunlin U R U B,PqRed Knot R R BqPurple Sandpiper R R BqShort-billed Dowitcher R R R PqRed Phalarope U L,BqCommon Snipe U R U R M,PqAmerican Woodcock C C C R S,W

JaegersqParasitic Yaeger U L,BqPomarine Yeager R L,B

GullsqLile Gull R R U R LqBonapartes Gull C R C U L,BqLaughing Gull U R R R LqRing-billed Gull A C A C L,BqHerring Gull A U A A L,BqThayers Gull R R U L,BqIceland Gull U R R LqGlaucous Gull R R U L,BqGreat Black-backed Gull U R U U LqSabines Gull U R LqBlack-legged Kiiwake R R U R L TernsqCaspian Tern C U R R L,BqCommon Tern C R U L,BqForsters Tern U R U L,BqBlack Tern* R U R M,B

27



28/32

SPRING

FALL

HABITAT

SUMMER

WINTER

Doves

qRock Dove C C C C UqMourning Dove A A A A F,W

CuckoosqBlack-billed Cuckoo U U U WEqYellow-billed Cuckoo U U U WE OwlsqShort-eared Owl R R R U F,MqGreat Horned Owl C C C C WqSnowy Owl R R BqBarred Owl C C C C SqNorthern Saw-whet Owl R R R RWqEastern Screech Owl C C C C W GoatsuckersqCommon Nighthawk U U U WE,FqWhip-poor-will C U U W

SwisqChimney Swi A A A U

HummingbirdsqRuby-throated Hummingbird C C C F,WE Kingshers

qBelted Kingsher C C C R M,PWoodpeckers

qRed-headed Woodpecker C C C C WqRed-bellied Woodpecker C C C C WqYellow-bellied Sapsucker C R U R WqDowny Woodpecker C C C C W,WEqHairy Woodpecker U U U U WqNorthern Flicker C C C U WqPileated Woodpecker U U U U W FlycatchersqOlive-sided Flycatcher U R U SqEastern Wood Pewee C C C WqYellow-bellied Flycatcher U R R WqAcadian Flycatcher C C R WqAlder Flycatcher U U U MqWillow Flycatcher C U R MqLeast Flycatcher C R C W,WEqEastern Phoebe C C U F,W,WEqGreat-crested Flycatcher C C U WqEastern Kingbird C C U F,M

Larks

qHorned Lark C U U FSwallows

qPurple Martin C C C F,PqTree Swallow C A C F,MqRough-winged Swallow U U U F,MqBank Swallow C C C B,DqCli Swallow R R R Fq

Barn Swallow C A C FJays & Crows

qBlue Jay A A A A W,WEqAmerican Crow A A A A ALL

TitmiceqBlack-capped Chickadee C C C C WqTued Titmouse C C C C W

* State endangered

28



29/32

29

* State endangeredSPRING

FALL

HABITAT

SUMMER

WINTER

Nuthatches

qRed-breasted Nuthatch U R U U WqWhite-breasted Nuthatch C C C C W CreepersqBrown Creeper C R C U W

WrensqCarolina Wren U U U U WE,UqHouse Wren C C C WE,UqWinter Wren U R U R WqMarsh Wren* U U U MqSedge Wren* U R R F,M

Old World Warblers,Thrushes & Allies

qGolden-crowned Kinglet C R C R WqRuby-crowned Kinglet C R C R WqBlue-gray Gnatcatcher C U R WqEastern Bluebird C C C U F,WEqVeery U U U WqGray-cheeked Thrush U U WqSwainsons Thrush U C WqHermit Thrush C C R WqWood Thrush U U U R Wq

American Robin A A A U F,WThrashers

qGray Catbird C C C R WEqNorthern Mockingbird U U U R F,WEqBrown Thrasher C C C R WE

WaxwingsqCedar Waxwing C U C U W,M

StarlingsqEuropean Starling A A A A ALL

VireosqWhite-eyed Vireo U R U WqSolitary Vireo U R U WqYellow-throated Vireo C U U WqWarbling Vireo C C U WE,PqPhiladelphia Vireo U R U WqRed-eyed Vireo C C C W

WarblersqBlue-winged Warbler C U U WEqGolden-winged Warbler* R R R WEqTennessee Warbler C R C WqNashville Warbler C R C WqNorthern Parula Warbler U R R WqOrange-crowned Warble U R U WqYellow Warbler C C R WE,MqChestnut-sided Warbler C R U W,WEqMagnolia Warbler C R C WqCape May Warbler C R C WqYellow-rumped Warbler C R C W,MqBlack-throated Green Warbler C R C WqBlackburnian Warbler C R C WqPrairie Warbler U U R DqPalm Warbler C R C WE,MqBay-breasted Warbler C R C WqBlackpoll Warbler C R C WqCerulean Warbler C C R W

29



30/32

30

SPRING

FALL

HABITAT

SUMMER

WINTER

* State endangered

qBlack and White Warbler C R C WqAmerican Redstart C U C WqOvenbird C C U WqNorthern Waterthrush U R U WE,MqLouisiana Waterthrush U R U SqMourning Warbler R R R WEqCommon Yellowthroat C C C MqHooded Warbler U R R SqWilsons Warbler C R C WqCanada Warbler C R C WqYellow-breasted Chat U R R M,WE

TanagersqSummer Tanager U U U WqScarlet Tanager C C U W

Cardinals & BuntingsqNorthern Cardinal A A A A F,WEqRose-breasted Grosbeak C C C WqIndigo Bunting C C C F,WEqDickcissel U U U F

SparrowsqEastern Towhee C C C R WEqTree Sparrow C C A F,WEqChipping Sparrow C C C F,WE,DqField Sparrow C C C U F,D,MqVesper Sparrow U U U F,DqSananna Sparrow U U U F,DqGrasshopper Sparrow U U U FqFox Sparrow C C R WEqSong Sparrow C C C U M,WEqLincolns Sparrow U U WqSwamp Sparrow C C C U M,SqWhite-throated Sparrow C C R WEqWhite-crowned Sparrow C C R WEqDark-eyed Junco C C A WEqLapland Longspur R R R BqSnow Bunting R U U F,B

Blackbirds & OriolesqBobolink C C R FqRed-winged Blackbird A A A U F,M,SqEastern Meadowlark C C C FqWestern Meadowlark R R R FqYellow-headed Blackbird* R R R MqRusty Blackbird U R U R SqCommon Grackle C C C U M,FqBrown-headed Cowbird C C C U W,WEqBaltimore Oriole C C U W,WEqOrchard Oriole U U U W,WE

FinchesqPurple Finch U U U U WqHouse Finch A A A A UqCommon Redpoll R R U WEqPine Siskin R R U WEqAmerican Goldnch A A A A F,WE,UqEvening Grosbeak R R R WE

Old World SparrowsqHouse Sparrow A A A A U

30



31/32

31

Coot

Unplug and relaxin scenic serenity.

Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve

Mother Nature meets Frank Lloyd Wright at this 160-acre preserve.

Meander as long as you want without getting your boots muddy on four miles

of well-constructed trails and boardwalks. With areas for shing, birding or

just unwinding, youll be amazed how quickly an houror a daywill y by.

Hours: 7 a.m.10 p.m. daily

Address: Sidewalk & Dickinson Rd, Chesterton, IN 46304

Phone: 219-926-1842

Website: coeecreekwc.org


32/32

Planning your trip is easyat IndianaDunes.com

Ready to create your own, made-just-for-you trip to Indiana

Dunes Country?

Visit our new website to build your personalized itinerary, nd

interactive maps, make hotel reservations and nd all sorts of

money-saving deals and coupons.

Or, if youre already in the area and want personalized help, talk

to a knowledgeable Destination Concierge at the

Indiana Dunes Visitor Center.

IN 49 at US 20 in Porter, IN.

I di D T i

Introducing the newBeyond the BeachDiscovery TrialExplore more than 50 sites connecting

Lake Michigan to the Kankakee River. Visit

BeyondTheBeachDiscoveryTrail.com and

follow these signs to discover...

Documents

2011 Birding Guide