Seagull Bar

NOTE: In the event that a Piping Plover (endangered) appears on the bar during spring migration, portions of the bar may be closed to foot traffic to prevent disruption of any possible nesting attempt.

Site Directions: See page 80 of Wisconsin Atlas and Gazetteer. Take CTH T south (right) from Hwy 41. CTH T eventually becomes University Drive. Past the hospital it intersects Bay Shore Drive. Follow this northeast to Ogden Street. Follow Ogden left for two blocks, turning right on Leonard Street, following it to where it dead ends at Red Arrow Park. Access (foot traffic only) to Seagull Bar is through the park at the south end of the parking lot.

Site Description: This is a state natural area in Upper Green Bay in Marinette County, northeastern Wisconsin near the Michigan border. It is a large sandbar that extends out into western Green Bay. Trees line the ridge, with sand beaches extending down to the water. The bar extends south for 1 mile before curving west for .5 mile. A marsh is located in this inner pocket and will have exposed mudflats during low water years. When the bay is low, it is possible to walk most of the bar. Visibility of shorebirds is generally good (>80%) to fair, with site stability variable and dependent on water levels. Bayside may have large numbers of shorebirds. Inland pocket is characterized as a marsh (cattail/willow/rush) obstructing visibility and reducing open shoreline habitat. At least 2 plots (including one at exposed mudflats) are established, but their exact locations will vary and depend on water levels. Pre-survey should occur to determine plots ahead of time.

Longitude: -87.5830
Latitude: 45.0802
Stability: Variable.
Visibility: Good.

Current Coverage: None needed.

Sampling Periods: MAY 07 to JUN 07, AUG 01 to SEP 15.

Survey Protocol: After parking car, walk the sandspit to each plot, including one vantage point (plot 1) providing good viewing of exposed mudflats if suitable conditions exist. Record all species observed and number at each plot during 1-3 10-minute observation periods. If more than one observation period occurs per plot, indicate each observation period separately. Note on Map above each plot, if different than those delineated.

Species and Peak Numbers: Hundreds of shorebirds may be observed under optimal conditions; 30+ species, including: Snowy and Piping Plovers, Willet, Whimbrel, both godwits, Red Knot, and Western Sandpiper.

Local Contact: Judith and Wendel Johnson DK / pwuid@hotmail.com.