THE B'S KNEES. An upcoming event invites the community to a birding hike and breakfast burrito feast. (Photo via Facebook)

The signs of spring are ringing throughout the Chippewa Valley: Winds blow through tree limbs, frogs croak at dusk, and birds bloom into song at dawn. Mid-May marks the peak of spring migration for birds in Wisconsin, and Landmark Conservancy, a land trust with headquarters in Menomonie, is forging a unique event to help celebrate it. 

Taking place at the recently protected Elk Creek Bottoms Preserve, located west of Eau Claire and north of the Chippewa River, “Birds, Blooms, and Burritos” is slated for Thursday, May 16, and will feature a hike for birding, spotting wildflowers, and breakfast burritos donated from the Menomonie Market Food Co-op. Jeanette Kelly, citizen science and education director at Beaver Creek Reserve, will guide the group, offering tips and tricks for birding along the way. 

“(In May, birds) will be active, and vocal throughout the morning. ... Spring wildflowers, known as spring ephemerals, bloom this time of year in local forests while sunlight can still reach them,” said Sara Norman, community engagement manager for Landmark. “It’s an early morning event, and I figured people might get hungry towards the end. … From this, the idea of ‘Birds, Blooms, and Burritos’ was born! Who doesn’t love alliteration?” 

The event has a 6am start, with an emphasis on arriving early, dressing in layers, and being ready for the hour-and-a-half immersion into the forest. To help support the nonprofit organization, there is a $10 event fee, with a free option for financial accessibility. Bring your own binoculars, reusable cups for coffee, and a bird guide if you have them. A few binoculars and guides will be available, as well as compostable cups. 

Learn more about the event and register online. So see you at dawn?