MYBC is off to explore the legendary Sanford Lagoons during this peak time for Spring migrants! The Sanford Lagoons are the regional water treatment facilities which has been a notorious hotspot for some very rare birds in Maine, including a Swallow-tailed Kite, Purple Gallinule, Long-billed Dowitcher, Western Sandpiper, and many others. It is also an excellent location to see numerous warblers, raptors, and waterfowl. The eBird list for this hotspot has 241 different species reported so we will most certainly find something exciting. https://ebird.org/hotspot/L393329
Typically, the Sanford Lagoons are only open from 7:00 am - 8:30 am on weekends, however the owners and operators of the facility were very gracious to MYBC and are allowing the club to have an extended visit on this Saturday! This will allow us to explore the entire area. We are extremely thankful for this opportunity.
LOGISTICS: Dress in layers and wear comfortable, WATERPROOF shoes. though much of the Lagoon's pathways are well above water, we may move close to the edge so rubber boots or waterproof hiking boots are best.
Also bring the following: hat & gloves, warm coat, filled water bottle, a snack and/or lunch, binoculars, and a backpack in which you'll keep your stuff. If you do not have binoculars, MYBC will provide you with a pair.
MEET UP and PICK UP: Meet us at 7:00 am at the guest parking lot at Sanford Lagoons. To get there, from I-95 take Exit 32. At the light after the tollbooth make a right onto Route 111 West (Alfred Rd.). Follow for 11.4 miles and make a left onto Route 4 South. Follow it for 3.7 miles to the blinking light and make a left onto Gavel Rd. Follow past the entrance gate and park in designated spaces. You can also follow GPS directions to 192 Gavel Rd. Sanford ME, 04073. Pick up will be in the same parking lot at 11:00 am. PLEASE DO NOT BE LATE FOR PICK UP. The Sanford Lagoons will close promptly at 11:00 am and gates will close.
CARPOOLING: If you wish to carpool out of Biddeford with Seth, please indicate this in your RSVP or send an email request at info@maineyoungbirders.org.
