We will meet at the public boat ramp at Chris Larsen Park on the Sioux City waterfront at 7:00 AM on Saturday, September 10 for the 10-minute drive to the west entrance of Stone Park. Warbler migration is in full swing during mid-September. By searching the edges of Stone Park’s extensive upland woods, we will attempt to find small flocks of migrating warblers, which may contain both common and less common species. These flocks will also contain the immatures of the species and offer identification challenges largely avoided in the Spring.

We will begin our foray into the park at the west entrance and Black Bear Circle area. We will then move to the Benne Nature Trail area and then move to Pammel Valley. One option at Pammel Valley is a walk to Turtle Lake. You can meet us at any of these locations or later in the morning at Elk Point Overlook. Bring sack lunches so you can eat during the Hawk Watch portion of the outing. Sunscreen and insect repellent may also be handy.

At approximately 11:00 AM, we will re-assemble on the Park’s main ridge at the Elk Point Overlook for migrating raptors and lunch. Some members may station themselves further east on the ridge at other overlooks for additional vantage points. By keeping in touch by phone, the different parties will inform each other as to their sightings. With luck, we will see the less common raptors, such as Osprey, Northern Harriers, Sharp-shinned, Broad-winged and Swainson’s Hawks. Additionally, migrating Merlins and Peregrine Falcons are possible, as well as non-raptors such as Red-headed Woodpeckers, Blue Jays and American White Pelicans.

All LHAS outings are open to the public and offer an inviting way to begin birding and meet others with similar interests.

For more information, contact Randy Williams at 712-259-4705 or randy.vickie.williams@gmail.com; or Bill Huser at 712-574-3107 or billfhuser@gmail.com.