Waukesha County Presents Spring Bird Count 2026
May 9 @ 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
Free
Waukesha County Presents Spring Bird Count 2026
The Spring Bird Count is held each May by the Benjamin F. Goss Bird Club, which corresponds to counting spring migration of owls, waterfowls, shorebirds, songbirds, warblers, and other spring birds migrating from the south.Bird watchers of all skill levels can contribute to scientific data either in the field, in a car, or at feeders. A gathering occurs in the afternoon reviewing the birds seen.
Recommended ages 16+
-FREE!
-No expertise is needed and all skill levels are welcome.
-Bring your own binoculars or borrow theirs (limited quantity); cameras are also welcome.
-Dress for the weather and meet in the parking lot area by the Learning Center building. Held rain or shine.
-If groups of 10 or more plan to attend, please contact Retzer Nature Center in advance. Otherwise, registration is not required
-No expertise is needed and all skill levels are welcome.
-Bring your own binoculars or borrow theirs (limited quantity); cameras are also welcome.
-Dress for the weather and meet in the parking lot area by the Learning Center building. Held rain or shine.
-If groups of 10 or more plan to attend, please contact Retzer Nature Center in advance. Otherwise, registration is not required
Happy birding! 
About the Retzer Nature Center:
Retzer Nature Center was John and Florence Retzer’s retirement home. John purchased the original 90 acres from the Federal Land Bank in 1938. The Retzer’s immediately began restoring the degraded land with over 26,000 trees, shrubs, and flowers, many obtained from the Wisconsin Conservation Department. These plantings can be enjoyed today. In 1973, Florence Horn Retzer bequeathed her property to Waukesha County for park purposes. Her vision was “to conserve the scenery, natural life and wildlife, leaving the land unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.”
Guided by Mrs. Retzer’s wishes, the Waukesha County Park System began developing a nature center in 1974. Significant land acquisitions in 1980 and 1984 expanded the site to 335 acres. The Nature Center focuses on environmental education, natural land management, community restoration, and wildlife habitat improvement. Today restored prairies, a colorful butterfly and rain garden, and an oak opening demonstration area greet visitors and compliment the Retzer’s original homestead. The Retzer Environmental Learning Center and Charles Z. Horwitz Planetarium addition opened in May of 2005.
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