Minnesota Zoo Wild Birds Travel EdVenture

Thanks to its unique position at the convergence of four major biomes, Minnesota is a well-known birder’s paradise. From Prairie Grasslands to Coniferous Forests and Deciduous Forests to Tallgrass Aspen Parklands, these biomes make ideal homes for a variety of amazing birds.

Novice to experienced birders are invited to join this 4-day, 3-night adventure and share in the wonder of searching for birds across Minnesota—and into Wisconsin. No birding experience necessary. Just bring your binoculars, desire to learn, and enthusiasm!

Your EdVenture Itinerary:
Day 1 - Wednesday, June 2: Sherburne NWR & the National Loon Center
Begin your EdVenture meeting at the Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge first thing in the morning for a guided birding walk with a local birding guide. This morning long walk will be first of many walks setting the stage for your EdVenture. After a stop for lunch, spend the afternoon with the National Loon Center learning all about Minnesota’s state bird, including an optional evening birding walk with National Loon Center staff. L, D.

Day 2 - Thursday, June 3: The Loon Pontoon, Rice Lake NWR & McGregor Marsh
Join the National Loon Center for a morning of loons and lattes exploring loon habitat on their pontoon and helping with research. Then enjoy a hearty lunch before setting off to Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy another guided birding walk all afternoon, and then end your day with one last stop at the McGregor Marsh SNA for a guided DNR naturalist hike. Spend the rest of your evening relaxing at the resort. B, L, D.

Day 3 - Friday, June 4: Sax-Zim Bog & Free Time in Duluth
Today begins with a short drive to one of, if not the most famous bog in the country, Sax-Zim Bog. Spend all morning with the park naturalist on a guided birding hike. Afterwards, a quick stop for lunch is all that separates you from a free afternoon (and evening) exploring Duluth. For those looking for one more birding adventure, join an optional evening outing looking for birds at Point Pine Forest SNA. B, L.

Day 4 - Saturday, June 5: Hawk Ridge & Crex Meadows Wildlife Area
Your final morning takes you up the bluffs to participate in a songbird banding activity with Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory. The views are spectacular, and the birds are incredible. Then venture across the state line to Grantsburg, Wisconsin for lunch and one final birding walk. Spend all afternoon on a guided birding walk in the sedge prairie of Crew Meadows Wildlife Area with the park naturalist. Following the walk, begin your journey home or extend your stay visiting even more local bird habitats. B, L.

Important Notes:
• Transportation is not included. Email [email protected] if this is an issue.
• Dinner on Friday night in Duluth is on your own. We recommend you make reservations prior to the trip to avoid long wait times.