Antelope Island State Park in Utah is a renowned destination for bird enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of resident and migratory bird species. From birds of prey to upland game birds and songbirds, the island’s varied habitats provide a rich and captivating birdwatching experience.
What species of birds can be seen on Antelope Island State Park?
Antelope Island State Park is home to a wide variety of bird species, both resident and migratory. The resident birds include:
- Birds of Prey: Great horned owls, barn owls, peregrine falcons, long-eared owls, short-eared owls, and burrowing owls.
- Upland Game Birds: Chukar partridge, Ring-necked Pheasants, California Quail, and Sharp-tailed Grouse.
- Songbirds: Western meadowlarks, sage thrashers, rock wrens, and lark sparrows.
The park also attracts a variety of migratory birds, such as:
- Shorebirds: Wilson’s Phalarope, Eared Grebes, and various other shorebirds and waterfowl.
- Waterbirds: American White Pelicans, Double-crested Cormorants, swans, geese, and numerous species of ducks.
- Songbird Migrants: Garr Ranch is a notable migrant trap, attracting a variety of songbirds during their migrations.
Are there any migratory birds on Antelope Island, and if so, where do they migrate to?
Yes, Antelope Island State Park is a crucial stopover point for many migratory bird species. The shorebirds and waterfowl that visit the island are typically migrating to and from their breeding grounds in Canada and Alaska, and their wintering grounds in the southern United States, Mexico, and Central America.
The songbird migrants that are attracted to the Garr Ranch area are also passing through the region, using the island as a resting and refueling spot during their long journeys.
What are the best locations on the island to observe and photograph birds?
Antelope Island State Park offers several prime locations for birdwatching and photography:
- Garr Ranch: This area is highly productive for birding due to its trees and riparian habitat, attracting a wide variety of birds, including year-round residents and migratory species.
- The Causeway: The causeway leading to the island is renowned for hosting enormous flocks of shorebirds, such as Wilson’s Phalarope and Eared Grebes, during migration periods.
- Island Roads: Driving the paved roads on the island can lead to sightings of birds like western meadowlarks, sage thrashers, and chukar partridge.
- Visitor Center and Surrounding Areas: The visitor center and nearby hillsides are good spots to find burrowing owls and other species.
Remember, certain areas like Egg Island and White Rock are closed year-round to protect nesting birds, so be sure to respect the park’s regulations and closures.
Additional Information
- Access and Fees: The park is open year-round, but there is a daily or annual fee to enter, as well as a specific Davis County Causeway fee. Directions: From Layton, take I-15 exit 332 westbound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station.
- Park Size: 28,800 acres.
- Hours: Open year-round, but check for specific hours and any temporary closures due to events like fires or maintenance.
- Contact: For more information, visit the Utah State Parks website or contact the park directly. Note that ride-share operators do not pick up from the park.
Antelope Island State Park is a true birder’s paradise, offering a diverse array of resident and migratory bird species. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a casual nature enthusiast, this island gem is sure to delight and captivate you with its abundant and varied avian population.
References
- Bear River Blogger – “Bird Watching On Antelope Island” – https://bearriverblogger.com/bird-watching-on-antelope-island/
- Discover Davis – “Bird Watching” – https://discoverdavis.com/bird-watching/
- On The Wing Photography – “Wild and Wonderful – Antelope Island State Park – The Birds” – https://www.onthewingphotography.com/wings/favorite-locations/wild-and-wonderful-antelope-island-state-park-the-birds/
- Utah Birding Spots – “Antelope Island State Park” – http://utahbirdingspots.blogspot.com/2014/03/antelope-island-state-park.html
- Utah State Parks – “Antelope Island State Park” – https://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/antelope-island/