Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required.

Date and Time: Saturday, July 12, 2025 from 8-10:30am

Location: Meet us at the trailhead at the Louisville Swamp North Trailhead (Main Parking Area).

3801 145th St West, Shakopee, MN 55379

Registration Information: Registration required through Signup.com. The link for the registration Signup page is available on the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges Website. And is located under the Refuge events page. The program is capped at 25 participants.

Please indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk.

Activity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active, slow moving, with plenty of stops along the way.

What to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. Sunscreen and bug spray are also recommended. If you have them, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well.

Accessibility: Accessibility at Louisville Swamp North Trailhead (Main Parking Area):

Restrooms are located at the parking lot. There are no water fountains or dedicated handicap parking. Trail is nature surface and mostly flat, with a slight slope to reach the Mazomani trail. Depending on seasonal trail conditions, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are no benches in the trail area. Trailhead is a <0.1 mile distance from the parking lot. There are no benches or rest areas in the area. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services, close captioning, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov.