In birding, March is a weird time. You’ve got winter species lingering while spring species are moving in. Trails can be muddy and lakes can be frozen. But one species is just the right kind of weird to shine in this season.

Our March Thirty, Birdy & Thriving outing is both a woodcock walk, and an observation of the species’ quirks. We’ll meet at Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve in Fishers at 6:30pm for some spring birding with a species checklist (that might include a few species that aren’t birds) in the wooded and wetland habitats. 

We will then head to the Observation Deck in the grassland to wait for the Woodcocks to perform their courtship “sky dance”. Depending on where activity is, we may wander to other trails along the grassland portion of the preserve for best viewing.

We will meet near the picnic tables and cabin at the trailhead, and several pairs of binoculars will be available for those who need them. Trail surfaces include rough gravel, boardwalks, and few dirt paths with roots/rocks. While gravel trails in grassland and swamp portions only have one incline, there is greater variation in terrain in the forest habitat. We will traverse up to .75 miles at a slow pace with stopping to observe birds. There is opportunity to sit at the Observation Deck.

The Thirty, Birdy & Thriving group is designed for bird-lovers age 20-40, as a space to observe birds with new friends from the Central Indiana community. To register, email Olivia Bautch at falcon_515@outlook.com, stating if you are a ABAS member or not. This program is limited to 20 participants and is free, but pre-registration is required. ABAS members get priority registration until March 10, but non-members should sign up early, as once registration is open, it is first come first serve.

What: Spring Woods and Woodcock Wander with Thirty, Birdy & Thriving

When: Friday, March 20, 2026 from 6:30-8:30 pm

Where: Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve

Register: falcon_515@outlook.com