Look to the skies, shorelines, and forests of Door County, and you’ll discover that we’re right in the middle of one of nature’s great migrations. More than 300 bird species pass through or utilize Door County each year, making the peninsula an important stopover along the Mississippi Flyway. Surrounded by the waters of Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County naturally guides migrating birds through the region, providing places where they can rest, feed, and prepare for the next leg of their journey.
Crossroads at Big Creek’s preserves offer a variety of habitats that help support these travelers. Forests, wetlands, meadows, and shorelines provide food, shelter, and safe places to rest. The Cove Preserve is especially important. Located where Big Creek meets the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal, this estuarine habitat attracts a wide variety of both migratory and year-round bird species. Whether you’re an avid birder or simply enjoy spending time outdoors, a walk through the preserve can reveal something new around every corner.
“Many birds travel hundreds or even thousands of miles during migration,” said Jess Poppie, Interpretive Naturalist at Crossroads at Big Creek. “The habitats protected at Crossroads give them places to rest and refuel before continuing their incredible journeys.”
November is a wonderful time to get outside and experience these natural wonders firsthand. Join us for Wandering Wednesday on November 18 at 1:30 p.m. and enjoy an easy naturalist-led hike through the preserve.
Crossroads also offers opportunities to deepen your connection to the natural world in other ways. On November 20 at 1 p.m., USDA Soil Scientist Jeremy Zeigler will lead Get to Know Your Soil, a hands-on exploration of local soils and soil classification. Participants will examine real soil samples, learn how to identify different soil types, and discover the foundations of healthy, thriving ecosystems.
Then on November 23 at 1:30 p.m., join us for Let’s Get Crafty! Tapestry Weaving. This fully guided program includes all materials and supplies and invites participants to explore the connections found throughout the natural world through creative expression. Participants will leave with a handmade tapestry.
Whether you’re hoping to spot migrating birds, enjoy a guided hike, learn about the ground beneath your feet, or create something inspired by nature, November offers plenty of opportunities to explore, discover, and connect at Crossroads at Big Creek.
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