Spring Waterfowl Migration—Saturday, March 9, 2024, 8:00 AM
Where to Meet:
In the upper Oxbow parking lot at the main entrance to the Oxbow
Trip Leader:
Erich Baumgardner
513-304-0697
erichbaumgardner@gmail.com
March in the Oxbow means ducks, as spring waterfowl migration peaks during this month. The Oxbow has historically been a magnet for migrating birds, but especially for waterfowl. Other species of birds will also be seen but it would be difficult to ignore the waterfowl during any March visit to the Oxbow area.
At least 34 species of waterfowl have been recorded in the Oxbow over the years and about 25 of those occur regularly. Many other signs of spring should be noticeable. It has become common to see Bald Eagles in the Oxbow area during any month of the year and on any given day. That said, March still represents the peak of spring migration for Bald Eagles. Sandhill Cranes and large concentrations of gulls could also be seen. When you add these migrants with lingering winter visitors and the local residents, a great diversity of species, some in large numbers, can be found during this month.
Our trip leader, Erich Baumgardner, is a skilled birder with an interest in all aspects of nature. He is also a long-time Oxbow Inc. advocate and current board member who knows the Oxbow very well. Erich’s plan for this trip will probably be to move around to several locations in the Oxbow area to better our chances of finding a wide variety of species. March also brings rain and potential flooding to the Oxbow bottoms, so some areas can be inaccessible. However, flood waters open up new and temporary areas where waterfowl and other water birds can forage, so Erich will adjust his plans on the day of the trip. Expect a little driving from spot to spot interspersed with some light walking.
Dress for late winter and expect some mud on your shoes. This morning trip that will end around noon. There are no restrooms available in the Oxbow but there are many nearby businesses open to the public. Feel free to contact Erich if you have any questions regarding this trip.
Where to meet
Meet at the upper Oxbow parking lot at the main entrance to the Oxbow at 8:00AM.
You can search for “Oxbow Nature Conservancy” on Google maps (or other navigation application) for directions. The address for the main entrance is
17160 Reardon Drive
Lawrenceburg, IN 47025
However, see the directions below for reference. Note that these directions apply to those who are approaching on interstate 275.
From I-275, take exit #16 (US HWY 50) and go south.
In about 200 yards, turn left (east) onto Production Road. This road is just past the Circle K gas station.
Turn right on Reardon Drive. You should then see the Oxbow entrance sign.
Turn left into the Oxbow. The upper parking area is immediately on the right.