Explore Our Trails

There are several bluebird nesting box trails located throughout Eau Claire County that require volunteers to annually monitor these trails.

Bluebird Nesting Boxes Trails Include:

• Beaver Creek Reserve – This trail consists of 25 nest boxes that are located near and throughout the Reserve's grounds. View the trail map.
• Eau Claire Golf and Country Club –To monitor this trail, you MUST be a member of the Eau Claire Country Club. There are 20 nest boxes on this trail. View the trail map.
• Eau Claire Neighborhood Trail – Numerous residential yards located south of Eau Claire make up this trail which is home to 24 nest boxes.
• Hickory Hills Trail –This bluebird trail is placed around the perimeter of the Hickory Hills Golf Course that entails 30 boxes. View the trail map.
• Interlachen Trail – Located south of Eau Claire, this residential neighborhood trail consists of eight nesting boxes.
• Pine Meadow –Nine-hole golf course contains 10 nest boxes to monitor. View the trail map.
• UW-Eau Claire – The Children's Nature Academy at the Priory is home to 10 nest boxes. View the trail map.

Trail Monitor Responsibilities:

• Build nest boxes for adopted trails.
• Attend an informational training on monitoring bluebird trails.
• Agree to monitor the trail on a weekly basis for the months of April through August.
• Collect and record data on each nest box weekly and log information onto www.NestWatch.org.
• Respect all the rules and regulations of your host site.

Interested in becoming a Monitor?

Trail Tips:

• If you decide to become a nest box monitor, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
• Consideration and polite behavior are essential to ensure the enjoyment of all trail users and protect our natural resources.
• Treat all trail users with respect and courtesy regardless of their sport, speed or skill level.
• If monitoring a golf course bluebird trail, stay to the right and pass on the left. Always look before changing positions on the trail. Anticipate other trail users around corners or in blind spots.
• Stay on the trail. Do not cut switchbacks or use shortcuts.
• Learn and use appropriate hand signals. Motorized users often cannot hear voice signals.
• Share the trail, watch and listen for others. Anything you fit in your ear significantly impairs your hearing and may not be safe.
• Respect trail closures; use only trails posted open. Obey posted signs and travel only on trails open to monitor the nest boxes.
• Carry out all litter, including your pet's waste.
• Lastly, enjoy and have fun sharing the experience with your family and friends.