Nestled in the Flint Hills, El Dorado Reservoir offers a variety of habitats, providing year-round birding opportunities. The lake itself is best during the fall and winter months, when recreation is light compared with the warmer months. Look for Scoters among the many waterfowl species. This lake has been very popular for Bald Eagle viewing in years past, with the many snags in the upper part of the lake providing places to perch. A scope will come in handy to survey this large reservoir, and good vantage points include the boat ramp at the NW end of the dam, the Boulder Bluff Camping Area, the SE end of the dam, the Shady Creek Marina and Fisherman’s Point on Bluestem Point. During breeding season a full day of fun can be had by driving around the lake. Depending on the when the prairie was last burned, listen for Henslow’s Sparrow along NE Teter Rd, the road into Bluestem Point (especially near the entrance) and the Shady Creek Access road west of Hwy 177. Also along Teter Rd, look for Upland Sandpiper, Scissor-tailed Flycatcher and Grasshopper Sparrow. Other productive areas around the upper end of the lake include the boat ramp at the east end of NE 60th, NE 85th (Painted Bunting) and the Chelsea area (Blue Grosbeak). There are several trails in the park, the best being the Teter Nature Trail. Near the parking area, look for Bell’s Vireo and Gray Catbird. The trail descends into bottomland forest that includes Pawpaw trees (sustaining a reliable population of Zebra Swallowtail butterflies). Look for Louisiana Waterthrush and Prothonotary Warbler in the riparian areas, Northern Parula and Kentucky Warbler in addition to the usual woodland species. The entire Walnut River Area is excellent during migration, especially the Tall Oak campground. Don’t overlook the wildlife areas on the east side of Hwy 177, especially Ellis Rd north of NE 10th and also along NE 20th, which can be good any time and especially during migration. In town, a productive walking path follows the West Walnut River from Main St. near the Dillons store to Riverside Park off Hwy 54, accessed from either location. DeLorme: 63, F6