Saint Paul Bird Alliance

Guided Birdwatching for People with Mobility Challenges
2025-06-01 11:00 - 12:30 (America/Chicago) | MN Valley National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, 3815 American Boulevard, East Bloomington, MN, 55425, East Bloomington, MN, 55425, United States
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
3815 American Boulevard, East Bloomington, MN, 55425United
Sunday, June 1, 11:00 AM-12:30 PM
St. Paul Bird Alliance joins with the Land of Lakes Bird Alliance to offer this opportunity for spring birdwatching at the feeder, adjacent fields, and nearby overlook. This outing is appropriate for birders with a range of mobility challenges including birders who use wheelchairs, walkers, or canes, as well as those who walk slowly, but all birders are welcome. We expect to see many species of bird at close range. All birders from beginners to experienced are welcome.
INFORMATION Binoculars will be available for those who need them. Please dress for the weather.
DIRECTIONS We will meet at the bird feeder just behind the MVNWR Visitor Center (no need to enter the building). If it is raining, we will meet inside the Visitor Center. (map) 44.85993446292338, -93.21629161688313
REGISTRATION Advance registration for this free event is required.
DIFFICULTY The path is paved and has curb cuts from the parking lot. The path is wide, flat and there are no slopes. The bird feeder is just 400 feet from the handicap parking spaces. Disability parking spaces are available and accessible portable toilets are located nearby. There are a few benches near the bird feeder, so you may also wish to bring your own folding stool or chair.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact Birdability® Mark Paller (palle001@umn.edu). More information about Birdability® at https://www.birdability.org or contact Mark Paller.

Please feel free to share this with your friends and family.

This event is hosted by Land of Lakes Bird Alliance and St. Paul Bird Alliance, and cosponsored by Birdability®

Cancelled due to weather - Tuesday Morning Birding - Afton State Park (50th St. Parking Lot)
2025-06-03 07:00 - 09:00 | Afton State Park 5oth Street S Parking Lot, MN, 55001, United States
This event has been cancelled due to weather – updated June 2
50th Street S Parking Lot, Afton, MN 55001
The Park has a rich variety of habitats, and the target bird for this trip is the Dickcissel. Note: The trip starts at the 50th Street Parking Lot.
DIRECTIONS Take 94 west from St. Paul to exit MN-95 S/Manning Ave S (exit 253). Travel south for 3.9 mi. Turn left (east) on 40th Street S. Travel 2.4 mi to Trading Post Trail S. Travel 1 mi. Turn left onto 50th Street. Travel 0.9 mi. The Afton State Park parking lot is on the right. 44.87616, -92.79211
REGISTRATION None
DIFFICULTY Approximately 1.3 miles on grass and dirt trails. Some gradual small hills. Porta-potty available at parking lot.
LEADER Monica Bryand 651-246-5522 mjbryand@gmail.com

Landscape Revival | June 7, 2025 | Lake Elmo
2025-06-07 09:00 - 13:00 | 5825 Kelvin Ave N, Lake Elmo, MN 55042, 5825 Kelvin Ave N, Lake Elmo, MN 55042, Lake Elmo, 55042, United States
June 7, 2025 9a – 1pm
Market: Purchase MN native plants from multiple growers. No systemic insecticides.
Expo: Learn to select and grow native plants for pollinators, wildlife, and water quality. Visit with educators and experts from conservation and environmental organizations. Get your landscaping questions answered.
9am-1pm + Food Truck

2025 Landscape Revival Growers/Vendors

Growers/Vendors

Grower/VendorWebsiteContact NameContact PhoneContact E-mail

Blazing Star Gardens
(Takes Pre Orders)blazingstargardens.comDustin Demmer(507) 402-8337blazingstargardens@gmail.com

Dragonfly Gardensdragonflygardens.netHans Klug(715) 268-7660, (715) 544-7219natives@dragonflygardens.net

Ecoscapes Nativeecoscapes1.comCraig Stark(612) 965-0848craigstark@ecoscapes1.com

Minnesota Native Landscapes
(Takes pre orders)
http://tinyurl.com/czhxzt9mnlcorp.comChris Stumvoll(763) 295-0010chris.stumvoll@mnlcorp.com

Northern Hollernorthernholler.comPreston DrumNApreston@northernholler.com

2025 Landscape Revival Exhibitors

EXHIBITORWEBSITE

Blue Thumb/Lawns to Legumesbluethumb.org

Minnesota Dragonfly Societymndragonfly.org

Minnesota Horticultural Societynortherngardener.org

Pollinator Friendly Alliancepollinatorfriendly.org/about-us

U of M Bee Squadbeelab.umn.edu/bee-squad

Washington Conservation Districtwww.mnwcd.org

Washington County
Master Gardeners - Monarchs & Pollinatorswashingtoncountymg.org

Xercesxerces.org

Wild Ones St Croix Oak Savannastcroixoaksavanna.wildones.org

Saint Paul BIrd Alliancesaintpaulbirdalliance.org

Bird City Stillwater/SSMN orgsustainablestillwatermn.org

Bike & Bird - Saint Paul’s Como Park and Frogtown Farm
2025-06-08 08:00 - 12:00 | Como Park Pavillion, 1360 Lexington Parkway, St Paul, 55103, United States
Sunday, June 8, 8:00 AM to Noon
Bike, Bird & Sketch Sunday, June 8, Como Park to Frogtown Park & Farm
Discover the fun of birding from a bicycle and sketching birds you see in St Paul’s prime parkland green space. Birders, bicyclists, and sketchers – all skill levels are welcome. This is a family-friendly event.
Bikers meet at the Como Park Pavilion, 1360 N. Lexington Parkway, St Paul, MN 55103 at 8 a.m. Bikers will be traveling 2.5 miles between Como Park and Frogtown Park. The two parks are connected by the Lexington Parkway bike path to the W. Minnehaha bike lanes. Como Park includes the Lake, a zoo, conservatory, picnic grounds, golf course and Cardinal Woods. There are restrooms in the pavilion. Frogtown Park is an urban park with native plant landscaping, native tree planting, picnic tables and organic farm plots. Top of the Hill provides scenic views of the city. There is a port-a-potty on site.
Public transportation- Como Park is accessible by MTC bus lines 3 and 83. Frogtown Park is accessible by MTC bus line 67.
Directions: Bikers meet in the south parking lot of the Como Park Pavilion at 8 a.m. Bring bikes, helmet, binoculars, sunscreen, water. You’re encouraged to wear a high-visibility clothing and bring bike lights.
Sketchers meet at Top of the Hill, Frogtown Park & Farm, 946 W. Minnehaha, St Paul MN 55104 at 9 a.m. Bring art supplies and binoculars or use the ones we provide.
Information: Biking difficulty is easy to moderate. A few short hills, but mostly the roadways are winding and fairly level. Riding pace is relaxed, with frequent stops as birds are seen.
LEADER Sherry Gray sherrygray@yahoo.com

Ford Area C Birding Outing
2025-06-14 09:00 - 11:00
Ford Area C birding outing

Saturday, June 14, 2025 –9:00 am to 11:00 am

Hidden Falls Regional Park, St. Paul

Join the St. Paul Bird Alliance and FMR for a riverfront birding walk to a unique St. Paul site: Ford Area C, a former hazardous waste dump whose proposed cleanup plan will be open for public input later this year.
Staff will share updates about St. Paul riverfront happenings while we look for birds along the shoreline and through the floodplain forest. Bird lovers of all ages and experience levels are welcome; volunteers will be on hand to teach you.
This event starts at Hidden Falls Regional Park. The walk to Area C is 1.5-2 miles round-trip on flat dirt trails; there may be a few minor obstacles. Hidden Falls has ample free parking and porta-potties on site.
Just so you know, registration is required as capacity is limited, and no pets are allowed on the outing. Please register below or join the waitlist.
Click Here for registration information

Let's Go Birding Together at Battle Creek Park
2025-06-15 08:00 - 10:00 | Battle Creek Park – Dog Park, 2350 Upper Afton Rd, Saint Paul, MN, 55119, United States
2350 Upper Afton Rd, Maplewood, MN 55119
Sunday, June 15, 8:00-10:00 AM
Join in a fun birding outing. Saint Paul Bird Alliance, the St. Paul Public Library and the Urban Bird Collective invite you, your friends and family on this birding adventure. All levels of birding skills are welcome. Loaner binoculars and field guide books will be available for you to use.
DIRECTIONS From McKnight Rd, turn east onto Upper Afton Rd., drive 0.2 mi, turn right, and the destination will be on the right. Meet at the parking lot next to the off-leash dog park. 44.940752, -93.001840
INFORMATION Dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Bring a brimmed hat, water, sunblock, and bug spray. Loaner binoculars will be available.
REGISTRATION Required registration and limited to 15 participants.
DIFFICULTY Approximately 0.7-1 mile on paved and maintained grass surfaces with small gradual hills. Porta Potty is available at dog park. Restrooms available at Park Pavilion across Upper Afton Road.
LEADER/S Monica Bryand 651-246-5522 mjbryand@gmail.com

Tuesday Morning Birding at Silverwood Regional Park
2025-06-17 07:00 - 09:00 | Silverwood Regional Park, St Anthony, MN, 2500 County Road E, St. Anthony, MN, 55421, United States
2500 Cty Rd. E, St. Anthony, MN 55421
Silverwood Park is a beautiful urban park on the shores of Silver Lake. The variety of habitats in the park–oak forest, marsh, grassland, and lakefront–make it a great birding destination, with over 180 different species sighted in the park.
DIRECTIONS From 35W, take Cty Rd D/37th Ave. west, turn north (rt) onto Silver Lake, or, from I-694, take Silver Lake exit, go south. Finally, go west on Cty Rd E for ~1,000 ft, entrance on left. Meet at the large main parking lot. 45.047141, -93.225707
REGISTRATION None
DIFFICULTY Approximately 1.5 miles on paved and gravel trails with small, gradual hills or on a level grassy area. Benches available. Indoor restrooms, water, and café on-site.
Leaders Mark Gilbert and Neil Carlson, ngcarlson0@gmail.com 763-245-3556

Birds and Beverages Saint Paul!
2025-06-17 17:30 - 19:30, 2025-07-22 17:30 - 20:30, 2025-08-20 17:30 - 20:30, 2025-09-23 17:30 - 20:30 | Sweeney’s Saloon, 96 Dale St N, Saint Paul, MN, 55102, United States
A monthly gathering to meet other birders and talk about birds! Come and share your birding stories and hear what’s new. We gather in the Ashland Room at Sweeney’s Saloon to visit over a meal and beverages.
Photo Credit – Michael Cassella/Audubon Images

Bike & Bird the Mississippi River Levee on the Robert Piram Trail
2025-06-22 08:00 - 12:00 | Lilydale Regional Park, 950 Lilydale Rd, St Paul, MN, 55118, United States
This year there are 5 Bike and Bird Sunday morning trips – All are led by Sherry Gray

380 E. Lafayette Frontage Rd, St. Paul, MN 55107
Sunday, June 22, 8:00 AM to Noon
Discover the fun of birding from a bicycle along the Mississippi River, riding from the Saint Paul Airport past the Pigs Eye Island SNA Heron Rookery to Kaposia Landing (2.6 miles one way) and the Rock Island Swing Bridge (7.8 mi, one way), visiting prime birding locations for Ramsey and Dakota Counties. Landscape is urban, following both the big river and train tracks from Saint Paul to South Saint Paul, with wetlands at the start (near the airport) and small wooded areas along the way. Some riders may want to do a full day ride continuing to Hastings, including biking through Spring Lake Park. We will stop at the Swing Bridge for a picnic lunch.
LOCATION See trail map: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DrPc80Yv-w4WpsSQhy9GxWkOmL6sWQBu/view
DIRECTIONS We will start at Runway 52 · 380 E Lafayette Frontage Rd, St Paul, MN 55107. (44.93600871167755, -93.0719683383748) If you do not want to bicycle the return from Rock Island Swing Bridge, you will need to arrive at parking area 30 minutes earlier (arrange with ride leader) to shuttle cars.
INFORMATION Bring bicycle, helmet with sun visor, binoculars, sunscreen, snacks and water. Scope is optional but could be useful for locating birds on Pigs Eye Island across the river. Leader will bring a scope and first aid kit. If you are riding to the Swing Bridge, bring your lunch (or group might decide to eat at the nearby marina restaurant).
REGISTRATION Required and limited to 8 participants. Contact: sherrygray@yahoo.com to register. Participants will be asked to sign a liability release form at the start of the trip.
DIFFICULTY Easy. Some side trails might have hills, but route is mostly river levee flat. [Optional route to Hastings/Spring Lake Park is hilly and might include a few blocks of on-road riding] As group will hear and see many birds, riding pace is relaxed. Birders and bicyclists of all levels, including newbies, very welcome to join.
LEADER Sherry Gray sherrygray@yahoo.com

Tuesday Morning Birding - Reservoir Woods, Roseville
2025-06-24 07:00 - 09:00 | Reservoir Woods | Woodview Area, Larpenteur Ave & Dale Street, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
Reservoir Woods – Roseville City Park, Larpenteur Ave., 55113
Summer birding is more relaxed and presents possibilities for observing behaviors different from other times of year. Now they are briefly settled on family territories. Birders have opportunities for lingering identifications and group observations at a summer-time relaxed pace. This pace is also ideal for birders of all skill levels to learn and experience the basics to locate, describe, and identify birds.
DIRECTIONS Meet at the Roseville Woodview Off-Leash Dog Area parking lot, between Rice and Dale Streets on Larpenteur Ave. (Location listed on eBird hotspots as “Reservoir Woods—Woodview Open Space”.) Park snugly in the small parking lot or street park on Mackubin St. directly across Larpenteur from the dog area parking lot. 44.992056, -93.120548
REGISTRATION None
DIFFICULTY Approximately 1.2-1.7 miles on paved paths. Small portion on packed dirt paths possible depending on route chosen that day. Moderate decline at the beginning, and incline when returning at the end. Porta potty at the parking area.
LEADER Mark Gilbert and Neil Carlson, ngcarlson0@gmail.com 763-245-3556

Let's Go Birding Together at Phalen and Round Lakes
2025-06-28 08:00 - 10:00 | Phalen Lake Boat Ramp, 1980 E. Shore Drive, Maplewood, 55109, United States
Saturday, June 28, 8:00 – 10:00 AM
St. Paul Bird Alliance joins with Friends of Swede Hollow and Friends of the Parks and Trails of St. Paul and Ramsey County to offer this opportunity to explore the NW corner of Phalen Park, including Round Lake. Along the way, we’ll look for both woodland and water birds. Birders of all skill levels are welcome.
INFORMATION: Loaner binoculars and field guide books will be available for you to use. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Water and bug repellent are advised.
DIRECTIONS Exit MN-36 onto US-61 South. Go 1.2 miles to Frost Ave. Turn left onto Frost. Go 0.6 miles to the traffic circle. Take the first exit onto E. Shore Drive. Go 0.2 miles. Turn right to stay on E. Shore Drive. Go 500 ft to the boat ramp parking lot. Meet in the parking lot. 44.995550, -93.059734
REGISTRATION None
DIFFICULTY The 1.5-mile asphalt route includes low gradual slopes and Porta Potty at the parking lot.
LEADER/S Kathy Sidles 651-233-6804 Kesid@aol.com and Cathy Croghan

Tuesday Morning Birding - Bobolinks at Battle Creek Park
2025-07-01 07:00 - 09:30 | Battle Creek Park – South Battle Creek Parking Lot, 2301 Lower Afton Rd, Saint Paul, MN, 55119, United States
2301 Lower Afton Rd., Maplewood, MN 55119
The Battle Creek Grassland is a critical nesting area which we have been working to preserve. It is next to Battle Creek Park, managed by Corrections, with restricted public access. Contingent on Corrections approval, we will carpool from the park into a restricted area where we hope to hear and see Bobolinks, Henslow’s Sparrows and other grassland birds. One way to prep for this walk is to watch From Bobolinks to Blue Jays – Bird at Battle Creek This trip is offered in collaboration with Friends of Maplewood Nature
DIRECTIONS Meet in the South Battle Creek parking lot. From I-94 E take exit 246B for McKnight Rd S., go 0.2 mi. Merge onto McKnight Rd S, go 1.2 mi. Turn left (east) onto Lower Afton, go 0.2 mile, turn left into the South Battle Creek Parking lot. 44.933382, -92.999838 ATTN: Details for this trip may change. Check Saint Paul Bird Alliance website before attending.
INFORMATION Venue website: https://www.ramseycounty.us/residents/parks-recreation/parks-trails/find-park/battle-creek-regional-park
REGISTRATION None
DIFFICULTY Contingent on Corrections approval to carpool, first hour includes easy walk on flat unpaved trail. Second hour on unpaved hilly trails. Porta-potty at the parking lot.
LEADER John Zakelj jzakelj@yahoo.com

Cancelled - Let's Go Birding Together at Phalen and Round Lakes
2025-07-05 08:00 - 10:00 | Phalen Lake Boat Ramp, 1980 E. Shore Drive, Maplewood, 55109, United States
Cancelled due to chance of thunderstorms. Participants that registered by email have been notified as of July 3.
﻿ 1980 E. Shore Drive, Maplewood, MN 55109
Saturday, July 5, 8:00 – 10:00 AM
Join in a fun birding outing Saint Paul Bird Alliance, the St. Paul Public Library and the Urban Bird Collective invite you, your friends and family on this birding adventure. Al levels of birding skills are welcome. Loaner binoculars and field guides will be available.
INFORMATION Dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Bring a brimmed hat and water; sunblock and bug spray advised.
DIRECTIONS Exit MN-36 onto US-61 South. Go 1.2 miles to Frost Ave. Turn left onto Frost. Go 0.6 miles to traffic circle. Take first exit onto E. Shore Drive. Go 0.2 miles. Turn right to stay on E. Shore Drive. Go 500 ft to Boat Ramp parking lot. Meet in parking lot. 44.995550, -93.059734
REGISTRATION Required registration and limited to 15 participants.
DIFFICULTY 1.5 mile asphalt route includes low gradual slopes, Porta Potty at parking lot.
LEADER/S Monica Bryand 651-246-5522 mjbryand@gmail.com

Annual Butterfly Count Returns
2025-07-12 09:30 - 14:00 | Arden Hills Army Training Site, 4761 Hamline Avenue North, Arden Hills, MN, 55112, United States
Saint Paul Bird Alliance’s annual butterfly count will take place on Saturday, July 12, from 9:45 to 2:00 PM at Arden Hills Army Training Site (AHATS). To register, follow this link: AHATS Butterfly Count Registration 2025. Registration will remain open through Wednesday, July 9. A map and other information will be emailed to participants in the days prior to the count. Registrants will be contacted if weather causes a last-minute change of plans.
This annual event is part of the July 4th Butterfly Count coordinated by the North American Butterfly Association (NABA: https://www.naba.org/).
How to get there: Registered participants will meet in the parking lot at the AHATS Arden Hills Readiness Center, 4761 Hamline Avenue North, just north of Highway 96. Drive through the AHATS gate to the Readiness Center, the first building on the left after you enter the training site. Restrooms are available in the Readiness Center.
During the count: We will carpool to the various sites. Mary Lee, the Environmental Protection Specialist for the National Guard, will again be our great host and tour leader.
Useful Information to Help You Prepare:
www.naba.org The official website of the North American Butterfly Association. Find everything to do with these beloved insects: membership options, magazine PDFs, gardening information, checklists, regional information, beautiful photos. A great source of information about butterflies.
www.wisconsinbutterflies.org An excellent site with species accounts and range maps of all butterflies encountered in Wisconsin; the vast majority of these species are also found in Minnesota.
www.inaturalist.org A community science hub for submitting and exploring observations of organisms throughout the world. Over 45,000 observations of butterflies in Minnesota have been submitted to iNaturalist!
What to Bring and Wear: Be sure to bring plenty of cool drinks, snacks, and a bag lunch. A wide-brimmed hat, lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirt (for protection from ticks, sun, and sharp grasses), sunscreen, high socks, old sneakers or rubber boots for bog-tromping, and insect repellent are recommended. Binoculars, a camera, and a butterfly field guide are recommended but not required. Loaner binoculars will be available.
Leader: Bob Dunlap
Recommended Butterfly Field Guides:

Butterflies through Binoculars: The East, A Field Guide to the Butterflies of Eastern North America by Jeffrey Glassberg
Kaufman Field Guide to Butterflies of North America, by Jim P. Brock and Kenn Kaufman

Bike & Bird Lilydale Regional Park, Pickerel Lake, and the Big Rivers Regional Trail
2025-07-13 08:00 - 12:00 | Lilydale Regional Park, 950 Lilydale Rd, St Paul, MN, 55118, United States
This year there are 5 Bike and Bird Sunday morning trips – All are led by Sherry Gray

950 Lilydale Rd, St Paul, MN 55118
Sunday, July 13, 8:00 AM – Noon
Discover the fun of birding from a bicycle along two rivers, starting in Ramsey County at Lilydale Regional Park, along the Mississippi River, and riding into Dakota County on the Big Rivers Rail Trail along the Minnesota River. Route to edge of Snelling State Park in Mendota Heights is about 5 miles one way. Habitats include riverside, lake, wetland, urban forest.

LOCATION Lilydale Regional Park, 950 Lilydale Rd, St Paul, MN 55118 (44.917164726895734, -93.12492944537591)
DIRECTIONS This park does not have a close bus/transit stop; closest bus is #62. Parking is available.
INFORMATION Bring bicycle, helmet, binoculars, lunch, snacks, sunscreen and water. Leader will bring a first aid kit, and may bring a scope. If you plan to add on any hiking or kayaking, bring a bike lock. If you plan to bike entire route, bring a picnic lunch.
REGISTRATION Required and limited to 8 participants. Contact sherrygray@yahoo.com to register. Participants will be asked to sign a liability release form at the start of the trip.
DIFFICULTY Route is mostly level and paved, but there may be a city street crossing to access the Big Rivers Regional Trail. The pace will be relaxed. Birders and bicyclists of all levels, including newbies, very welcome to join.
LEADER Sherry Gray sherrygray@yahoo.com

Let's Go Birding Together at Crosby Farm Regional Park
2025-07-19 08:00 - 10:00 | Crosby Farm Regional Park, 2595 Crosby Farm Rd., St. Paul, MN, 55116, United States
Saint Paul Bird Alliance and the St. Paul Public Library invite you to this event. All level of birding skills are welcome. Loaner binoculars and field guide books will be available for you to use.
DIRECTIONS Traveling south on 35E South take exit 103B for MN5/West 7th Street. Turn right onto West 7th, go 0.7 miles. Turn left onto S. Homer St., go 0.3 miles. Turn right onto Shepard Rd., go 1.4 miles. Turn left onto Crosby Farm Rd. Follow road past the marina to end of road. Meet in front of the Pavilion/toilets. 44.897723, -93.165835
INFORMATION Dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Bring a brimmed hat and water; sunblock and bug spray advised. Loaner binoculars will be available.
REGISTRATION required registration and limited to 15 participants.
Leaders Linda Whyte 651-815-7045 and Cathy Croghan

Cardinal Woods/Como Park | Cleanup | July 19
2025-07-19 08:30 - 10:30 | Como Lakeside Pavilion, 1360 Lexington Pkwy N, St Paul, MN, 55103, United States
July 19th, 8:30-10:30 AM: Volunteer at “Cardinal Woods” in Como Park“Cardinal Woods” is a property formerly managed by the St. Paul Bird Alliance and needs maintenance. Join us and members of the St. Paul Parks Department in maintaining the area so that “Cardinal Woods” can better support birds. The St. Paul Parks Department is not yet sure whether it will be a planting event, trash pickup, weeding, or something else- but they will provide all the necessary equipment. All you have to do is show up ready to help out!
Location: Como Park in St. Paul.Directions: We will meet at the Joyce Kilmer Fireplace in the Como Woodland Outdoor Classroom (coordinates: 44°58’34.6″N 93°09’08.2”W). City staff will be wearing yellow safety vests at the fireplace; look for them. There is available parking in a small lot across from the fireplace, and additional parking at the Como Pool. Information: Wear clothes that can get dirty and closed-toed shoes. The St. Paul Parks Department will provide the necessary equipment. The parks department will require all volunteers to sign a waiver on site.
Sign-up: All are welcome! Fill out this Google form to sign up. https://forms.gle/DjKrWgoXbM7nHrHaA The form will close by 07/12 or when enough volunteers sign up. Karina Hanson will notify volunteers by email if the event must be cancelled or rescheduled due to inclement weather.

Bike & Bird - Vadnais-Snail Lakes & Grass Lake Regional Parks
2025-07-27 08:00 - 12:00 | Snail Lake Regional Park, Shoreview, MN, 4191 Snail Lake Blvd., Shoreview, MN, 55126, United States
This year there are 5 Bike and Bird Sunday morning trips – All are led by Sherry Gray

4191 Snail Lake Blvd., Shoreview, MN 55126
Discover the fun of birding from a bicycle on more than 5 miles of mostly level, paved, multi-use trails that connect four lakes in Shoreview: Grass, Snail, Sucker, and Vadnais, all of which are prime birding locations for Ramsey County (top 10 hotspots on eBird). Landscape here is varied and includes lakes, woods, wetlands, and open grassland. Group usually birds Grass and Snail Lakes, then stops at Taste of Scandinavia Bakery (bring bike lock) for brunch or early lunch. Option to continue on to Sucker and Vadnais lakes from the Bakery.
LOCATION Trail map: https://www.ramseycounty.us/sites/default/files/Parks%20and%20Recreation/Park%20Maps%20-%20Vadnais%20Snail%20Lakes.pdf.
DIRECTIONS Meet in parking lot at Snail Lake picnic area/boat launch/beach parking lot,
4191 Snail Lake Blvd, Shoreview, MN 55126 (2nd entrance, past Mackubin Street intersection: 45.067178, -93.123040)
INFORMATION Bring bicycle, helmet, binoculars, snacks, sunscreen and water. Leader will bring a scope and first aid kit.
REGISTRATION Required registration and limited to 8 participants. CONTACT sherrygray@yahoo.com to register. Participants will be asked to sign a liability release form at the start of the trip.
DIFFICULTY Easy to moderate. A few short hills, but otherwise a winding, mostly level route. As group will hear and see many birds, riding pace is relaxed. Birders and bicyclists of all levels, including newbies, very welcome to join.
LEADER Sherry Gray sherrygray@yahoo.com

Bruce Vento Trail Birding
2025-08-09 08:00 - 10:00 | Bergeron Pass Marker, 1301 Arlington Ave E, St Paul, 55106
1301 Arlington Ave. E St. Paul, MN 55106
Saint Paul Bird Alliance joins with Friends of Swede Hollow and Friends of the Parks and Trails of St. Paul and Ramsey County to offer this opportunity to stroll along a portion Bruce Vento Regional Trail Learn the history of the land, the Trail, and current activities to save this important corridor from transit development. Along the way we’ll look for some summer birds. Beginners are most welcome.
INFORMATION Bring binoculars if you have them. A limited number of binoculars are available to borrow. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. Water and bug spray advised.
DIRECTIONS Meet at the Bergeron Pass Marker 44.984910, -93.045536 on the corner of English St. And Arlington Ave. Street, parking available along the east side of English St.
REGISTRATION None.
DIFFICULTY Level pathway both paved and natural surfaces. Route approximately 1.5 miles. No toilet.
LEADER Kathy Sidles 651-233-6804 Kesid@aol.com Cathy Croghan

Frogtown's Climate Carnival
2025-08-16 13:00 - 16:00 | Frogtown Lily pad, 625 Dale St N, St. Paul, MN, United States
Stop by our Saint Paul Bird Alliance booth to say hi! We’re also looking for volunteers to staff our coloring table for kids of all ages. Contact Kiki at kikisonnen@gmail.com if you’re interested in helping.

Bike & Bird - Saint Paul’s Creative Enterprise Zone
2025-08-17 08:00 - 12:00 | Hampden Park St. Paul, 993 Hampden Ave W, St Paul, 55104, United States
This year there are 5 Bike and Bird Sunday morning trips (June 8, June 22, July 13, July 27, Aug 17) – All are led by Sherry Gray
993 Hampden Ave. W, St. Paul, MN 55114
Sunday, Aug 17, 8:00 AM to Noon
Discover the fun of birding from a bicycle while checking out the public art in a vibrant mixed industrial/residential section of Saint Paul. We will search for urban birds in pocket parks, vacant lots, and along the UMN Transitway and RR tracks while exploring the murals sponsored by the Chroma Zone Festival (https://www.chromazone.net).
LOCATION Saint Paul’s Creative Enterprise Zone https://www.creativeenterprisezone.org
DIRECTIONS Park nearby or take Metro Transit (Green Line stop: Raymond) and meet on bikes in Hampden Park, 993 Hampden Ave W, St Paul, MN 55114 – DIRECTLY ACROSS FROM HAMPDEN PARK CO-OP (pictured here) 44.97000495061184, -93.19900698929779
INFORMATION Bring bicycle, helmet, binoculars, lunch, snacks, sunscreen and water. Leader will bring a first aid kit. You may want a camera for the murals. Group will stop at the Hampden Co-op for mid-morning break and/or lunch (we can get picnic supplies and snacks at Co-op and eat in Hampden Park).
REGISTRATION Required and limited to 8 participants. Contact: sherrygray@yahoo.com to register. Participants will be asked to sign a liability release form at the start of the trip.
DIFFICULTY Route is level and paved, but mostly on city streets which at times can be high traffic, including very large trucks (semis), so participants encourage to have bike lights and wear high vis clothing. As there are many excellent murals, the pace will be relaxed. Birders, art lovers and bicyclists of all levels, including newbies, very welcome to join.
LEADER Sherry Gray sherrygray@yahoo.com

Fall Migrants and Grassland Goldenrod at Battle Creek Park
2025-09-06 09:00 - 11:00 | Battle Creek Park – South Battle Creek Parking Lot, 2301 Lower Afton Rd, Saint Paul, MN, 55119, United States
The Battle Creek Grassland is a critical nesting area which we have been working to preserve. It is next to Battle Creek Park, managed by Corrections, with restricted public access. We will hike on park trails along the western and northern edges of the grassland, where we hope to hear and see migrating fall warblers, sparrows, and hawks, along with the early fall colors of the grassland. One way to prep for this walk is to watch From Bobolinks to Blue Jays – Bird at Battle Creek This trip is offered in collaboration with Friends of Maplewood Nature
DIRECTIONS Meet in the South Battle Creek parking lot. From I-94 take exit 246B for Mc Knight Rd S., go 0.2 mi. Merge onto McKnight Rd S, go 1.2 mi. Turn left (east) onto Lower Afton, go 0.2 mile, turn left into the South Battle Creek Parking lot. 44.933382, -92.999838
INFORMATION Venue website: https://www.ramseycounty.us/residents/parks-recreation/parks-trails/find-park/battle-creek-regional-park
REGISTRATION None
DIFFICULTY Approximately 2-mile hike on unpaved, hilly trails. Porta-potty at the parking lot.
LEADERS John Zakelj jzakelj@yahoo.com and Kathy Janis

Being Bird-Friendly - At Home & In Our Community
2025-09-11 19:00 - 20:30 | ZOOM Meeting Online
Co-Sponsored with Land of Lakes Bird Alliance
Zoom Only – Click Here To Register and Get Zoom Link
Joanna will discuss the key elements of a bird-friendly community, including specific actions we can take to support birds both individually and within our communities, such as creating habitat, mitigating various threats, engaging people, and fostering sustainability. She will also discuss the vision for Bird City and the hope for urban bird conservation across the hemisphere.
Joanna Eckles started birding in elementary school, studied Wildlife Science (Cornell University) and Conservation Biology (University of Minnesota), and has had a 35+ year career (so far) working for the Minnesota Zoo, The World Parrot Trust, Audubon, and The Raptor Center at the University of Minnesota. Joanna is currently working for American Bird Conservancy, coordinating Bird City Network to support the creation of more bird-friendly communities across the hemisphere.

Swede Hollow Park – Birding in the Heart of St. Paul
2025-09-20 09:00 - 11:00 | Swede Hollow Park, 622 Beaumont Street, St. Paul, MN, 55130, United States
622 Beaumont St, St Paul, MN 55130
St. Paul Bird Alliance joins with Friends of Swede Hollow and Friends of the Parks and Trails of St. Paul and Ramsey County to offer a great birding experience in the heart of St. Paul. Come learn about the history of the site and see what fall migrants pass through the Hollow. Those who want to track birds at Mike’s feeders are welcome to bring a folding chair and join Kiki Sonnen for a “bird sit” opportunity at the meeting spot. You might want to bring your art supplies and try sketching the scene.
INFORMATION: Loaner binoculars and field guides will be available for your use. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. No restrooms on site.
DIRECTIONS : Meet at the entrance to the Drewry Tunnel at Swede Hollow Park across from 622 Beaumont St. East, St. Paul 55130. 44.961473, -93.074421 On street parking is available. Parking is also available at the Hope Community Academy parking lot at the end of Beaumont Street.
REGISTRATION None
DIFFICULTY Approximately 1.5 miles on rolling paved paths. Mostly level, but the route through the Drewry Tunnel has a short, steep decline going into the park and steep incline as you come out of the park
LEADERS Kathy Sidles 651-233-6804 kesid@aol.com

Cardinal Woods/Como Park | Cleanup | Sept 23
2025-09-23 17:30 - 19:30 | Joyce Kilmer Fireplace, 1151 Wynne Ave, St. Paul, United States
Sept 23, 5:30-7:30 PM: Volunteer at “Cardinal Woods” in Como Park“Cardinal Woods” is a property formerly managed by the St. Paul Bird Alliance and needs maintenance. Join us and members of the St. Paul Parks Department in maintaining the area so that “Cardinal Woods” can better support birds. The St. Paul Parks Department is not yet sure whether it will be a planting event, trash pickup, weeding, or something else- but they will provide all the necessary equipment. All you have to do is show up ready to help out!
Location: Como Park in St. Paul.Directions: We will meet at the Joyce Kilmer Fireplace in the Como Woodland Outdoor Classroom (coordinates: 44°58’34.6″N 93°09’08.2”W). City staff will be wearing yellow safety vests at the fireplace; look for them. There is available parking in a small lot across from the fireplace, and additional parking at the Como Pool. Information: Wear clothes that can get dirty and closed-toed shoes. The St. Paul Parks Department will provide the necessary equipment. The parks department will require all volunteers to sign a waiver on site.
Sign-up: All are welcome! Fill out this Google form to sign up. The form will close by 09/15 or when enough volunteers sign up. Karina Hanson will notify volunteers by email if the event must be cancelled or rescheduled.

AHATS Habitat Restoration - September 26
2025-09-26 09:00 - 15:00 | Arden Hills Army Training Site, 4761 Hamline Avenue North, Arden Hills, MN, 55112, United States
Volunteer for AHATS Clean Up Days
For many years, the Arden Hills Army Training Site has partnered with the Saint Paul Bird Alliance to allow birders access to its expansive area with many habitats for field trips and special events, such as looking for owls and woodcocks. Twice a year, the site invites the public to help pick up trash, clean up vegetation, gather seeds (fall), maintain trails, and more. Participants are also welcome to bird and look for butterflies and other wildlife.
Dates: Friday, September 26, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Location: Enter the AHATS campus on the Hamline Ave extension just north of MN Hwy 96. Turn left (west) onto Ben Franklin Rd, and follow it approximately ¼ mile to the gate. Enter the Ben Franklin gate, and park as directed. Location is near 1567 Ben Franklin Rd. 45.08330° N, 93.16482° W
Attire: Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes or boots, and clothes that can get dirty. No open-toed shoes or sandals.
Equipment: AHATS will provide gloves, vests, trash bags, rakes, and other tools and supplies.
Food and Beverage: Bring a snack. Water will be provided.
Animals: No pets allowed. Service animals are always welcome.
Weather: Clean Up Days occur rain or shine.
Registration: No RSVP or registration needed. Just come and go between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm as it works with your schedule.

Avian Influenza in Minnesota
2025-10-09 19:00 - 20:30 | ZOOM Meeting Online
Co-Sponsored with Land of Lakes Bird Alliance
Zoom Registration Info
Avian Flu is in the news again. This talk will go over a brief history of avian influenza in Minnesota and discuss the current state of the disease in Minnesota. Ms. Baker will also discuss key actions you can take to ensure you are not contributing to the spread of this deadly disease.
Liz Baker is a member of the Wildlife Health Program within the Minnesota DNR. She has been with the program since August 2022, and her position focuses on data management and disease response activities.
