Join us for a birding hike to celebrate the opening of a 1 km trail through Sitler Woods in the heart of Skunk’s Misery in Southwest Middlesex. Watch and listen for migrating warblers and other species in this deep interior forest and learn about the trees, shrubs and spring wildflowers in this wetland/upland site. There will be three separate hikes with birders Bernie VanDenBelt, David Wake, and Chris Leys helping to spot and identify birds as well as some plants. Be sure to bring your binoculars and field guides if you have them.

Sitler Woods is a 50-acre parcel of spectacular Carolinian forest within the Skunk’s Misery Natural Area. The forest is home to a diversity of animals and plants, including butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, birds, trees, and ephemeral spring wildflowers. Among Carolinian specialties are the Tulip Tree and the endangered eastern Flowering Dogwood. Sitler Woods supports many species of area-sensitive birds that require large tracts of woodland in order to breed successfully.

Silter Woods is named after Delbert Sitler, former owner and long time resident of the Skunk’s Misery area. Delbert spent many enjoyable hours in the woods appreciating the majestic trees and hunting wild game.

Registration for this guided trip is required, limited in number, and subject to COVID-19 regulations at the time. At this time, masks will be required where physical distancing cannot be maintained. Vaccination is strongly recommended.

There will be hikes at 7am, 9am, and 11am. If this time is full, please see the RSVP page for Sitler Woods - Trail Opening and Birding Hike #1 and Sitler Woods - Trail Opening and Birding Hike #2.