Mid-March - some species of songbirds have returned, including robins, red-winged blackbirds and bluebirds; sandhill cranes can be heard in the wetlands; Canada geese and some ducks may be seen on the lakes; and pussy willows are showing.

(photos by Bob Ault)

From the latter half of March through mid-April flocks of ducks and other migratory waterfowl come and go.  Mallards, buffleheads, teals, scaups, ring-necked ducks, northern shovelers, coots, grebes, and herons are common.  Other species, including canvasbacks, redheads, swans, pelicans, and loons may occasionally be seen as well. 

(photo by Diane Gavand) 

Ospreys have been sighted as early as April 10.  Bald eagles can be seen occasionally all year long. 

Early wild flowers such as bloodroots and Dutchman’s breeches usually bloom around mid-April, but are sometimes seen earlier.  They are followed by trillium, spring beauties, marsh marigolds, jack-in-the pulpits, and a succession of other beautiful flowers throughout the spring, summer and fall.