Sunnyside Park photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Sunnyside Park is a small community park in Sunnyside, just east of East Carbon, with the Book Cliffs bordering town on the east.  The park is made up of a large grassy area bordered on the south by a riparian area and intermittent creek.  South of the riparian area is an overgrown tract including russian olives.  The riparian area is primarily cottonwoods and willow with a dense understory.  The park has scattered tall deciduous trees as well.  There are restrooms in the southeast corner and a large picnic area/pavilion in the middle of the grassy area.  During hte spring and fall, this park should be a bit of a migrant trap in the desert.  A quick stop here is only a minute or two out of the way if driving the loop from US-191 through the Sage Flats, East Carbon WTP, the foothills and junipers, and Horse Canyon Road back to US-191.

Birding:
Another out of the way location that has a lot of potential.  May and September are probably the best time of year here, when migrants heading north or south are looking for places to spend their days.  The large trees and natural funnel of the riverway probably lead to quite a few passerine species using the park.  Various warblers have been recorded here including YELLOW-RUMPED and ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER during early spring migration. YELLOW WARBLER are probably found here most of the summer, while YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT are possible.  Any of the typical warbler migrants in Utah probably show up annually.  WESTERN TANAGER, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, and LAZULI BUNTING can probably be found as well.  The potential for a big find here is huge given the location, especially in relation to the Book Cliffs during migration.  In the winter months NORTHERN PYGMY-OWL has been observed here.  The habitat looks like it might be good for WESTERN SCREECH-OWL as well.  Given there are only a handful of checklists from here any stop will likely turn up new species for this current list!

Directions:
From the on ramp at Exit 243 in Price, head south on US-191/6 for 13.3 miles. Turn left onto SR-123 and continue 9.7 miles. Take a right on to Valley View Drive/the parking area for the park.

Cougar Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Cougar Park is a narrow but long city park bordered on the west by neighborhoods, and on the east by grasslands and farms land.  A railroad track follows the east border, and shrubsteppe habitat lines it sides.  The north half of the park is a large open grass field that doubles as an overflow basin during heavy rains.  The south half of the park has been maintained as a native grassland and shrubsteppe habitat that is fenced off to protect the habitat.  There is a walking trail from the south end that leads into the middle of the habitat, and a path that follows the perimeter.  There are numerous trees long the west side that have been planted and in a few years could make for a great migrant trap with the open areas to the east.

Birding:
From April through September you can take a look at what birding might have been like in the Salt Lake Valley 100 years ago.  The native habitat restoration and protection at Cougar Park has created a look into the past.  A number of years ago nesting BURROWING OWLS were a highlight here, but in recent years reports have ceased so the birds may be gone.  But species like LARK SPARROW can be found along the railroad tracks along with HORNED LARK.  WESTERN KINGBIRD and SAY'S PHOEBE might be present in the trees or along the fence line, while BARN SWALLOWS cruise overhead in search of food.  WESTERN MEADOWLARK can be heard trilling from the fields, and you might glimpse a RED-TAILED HAWK or AMERICAN KESTREL soaring high above.  A number of migrant waterbird shave been observed including both AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN and WHITE-FACED IBIS.  I assume these are flyovers, but I guess if the overflow pond were full they could technically land here.  This isn't an often visited site, but if you live nearby its a quick stop to check--who knows, you might find some owls back at a burrow!

Directions:
From I-215 south side Belt Route, take Exit 13 for Redwood Road south.  Go .4 miles and turn right onto Bennion Boulevard for 3.5 miles.  Turn left onto Cougar Lane and go .6 miles till you reach the parking area on your left.

Copperton Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Copperton Park is a lush tree covered park in the middle of tiny Copperton.  The park is lined with large deciduous and coniferous trees, as well as a number of smaller trees as well.  The southern edge of the park has a playground, basketball courts, and tennis courts.  The rest of the park is open spaces, but dominated by the large old trees here.  A walking path loops through the park, while sidewalk surrounds it.  There are neighborhoods on 3 sides while a ravine is to the south.  In an otherwise obscure town the park is a very interesting habitat.

Birding:
Copperton Park is one of those places where if more birders went, the list for the area would be a lot bigger.  It absolutely would act as a migrant trap in the spring and fall, while it has great winter habitat for mountain species.  The summer months are likely slower, but most of the year there is some decent birding here.  The only issue is that it is just out of the way on the west side of the valley set back in a tiny town.  Winter visits to the park have the potential to turn up some good birds. Both GREAT HORNED and BARN OWL have been found roosting here in the thick tree cover, while RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER, HAIRY & DOWNY WOODPECKER, and NORTHERN FLICKER have all been reported.  MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE, RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET, TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE, CASSIN'S FINCH, and PINE SISKIN have all been observed here.  During migration it's no surprise that WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE, WESTERN TANAGER, and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK have been found.  COMMON NIGHTHAWK have been reported in mid-summer as a bonus.  This park absolutely is underbirded and potentially is a super hot spot during migration.  It would be very interesting to see what really passes through in May and September.

Directions:
From the intersection of Bacchus Highway and New Bingham Highway, take New Bingham Highway 1.9 miles west into Copperton.  Turn left onto Apex Road and go .2 miles. The road turns 90 degrees right here and becomes Hillcrest Street. Go .2 miles till you reach the parking lot on your left.

Bloomington Hills North Park from Google Street View

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Description:
This large urban park is sparse on habitat.  Comprised mostly of open grass, there are a few scattered trees around the park which is surrounded by walking paths.  A small playground sits on the south end, while the park is completely surrounded by neighborhoods.

Birding:
This is another local city park that doesn't get a ton of visits.  The lack of habitat and water features int eh desert doesn't bode well for birding.  MOURNING and EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE are found here, while WHITE-WINGED DOVE is present during the warmer months.  WESTERN KINGBIRD, WHITE-THROATED SWIFT and BULLOCK'S ORIOLE might be seen in the summer, while NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD and SAY'S PHOEBE are present year round.  Desert sites without water don't provide nearly the species list as nearby parks or golf courses where water is prevalent.  For this reason out of the way parks like this are usually more popular with locals, or if a rarity shows up.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 8  on St. George Blvd go east . 1mile to South River Road.  Turn right and go south 2.5 miles. Turn right onto Fort Pierce Drive and go .9 miles.  Turn left onto Vermillion Avenue and continue .2 miles to the parking area.

Ben Franklin Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Also called Scott Avenue Park this tiny urban park is dominated by open grass, but surrounded by tall trees on the north, west, and south sides.  The large deciduous trees are decades old in this area.  To the east is a large nursery (Millcreek Gardens).  In the northeast corner a small pond created by Mill Creek adds a bit of water to the park, with some riparian habitat near the parking area.

Birding:
A handful of checklists show the typical urban far at this mid city location.  The riparian and wet areas here have turned up SONG SPARROW, RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD, YELLOW WARBLER, and notably MARSH WREN and SPOTTED SANDPIPER.  BARN SWALLOW might be seen overhead, while a decent sized flock of AMERICAN CROWS have been seen here.  With other larger parks and better habitat nearby this location rarely gets visited--but if you live nearby it might make a worth while after or before work stop.

Directions:
From the intersection of 3300 South and 700 East in South Salt Lake, go south on 700 East for 2. miles.  Turn left onto Scott Avenue and travel .2 miles until you reach the park on your right.

Fitts Community Park from Google Street View

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Description:
This tiny park is surrounded by urban sprawl.  The suburban South Salt Lake neighborhoods have lots of old deciduous trees planted decades ago and now towering over the streets.  The park is bordered on the south by Mill Creek and it looks like they've created a canal that loops through the park back to the river.  Walking paths follow the edge and cut through the park, with a couple small playgrounds and family friendly area along the south side.  Picnic tables, benches and open spaces dominate the landscape, while the riparian habitat along the creek provides some good habitat.

Birding:
A pair of checklists show just 9 species typical of an urban environment.  This location sits just a couple blocks from the more productive Nibley GC so comparatively the birding here is going to be less productive. BREWER'S BLACKBIRD and DARK-EYED JUNCO make up the most notable sightings from here.  During migration this might be a decent spot to check in the city.  I assume YELLOW WARBLER breed here, and who knows what might pop up along the creek.

Directions:
From the intersection of 3300 South and 700 East in South Salt Lake, head west on 3300 South for .3 miles. Turn right onto 500 East and go north .3 miles till you reach the park on your left.

Adams Park from Google Street View

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Description:
A very small park--just 1/2 a block by a full block two street west of Utah State University in Logan.  The urban environment here is dotted with deciduous and coniferous trees, like many city parks, providing an excellent location to look for birds in town.  A walking path follows the edge, and cuts through the middle to a playground and picnic area.

Birding:
A handful of checklists identify just 8 species here--mostly the things you expect to find in a city, but with RING-NECKED PHEASANT, CALIFORNIA GULL, and AMERICAN CROW it has a few odd balls.  You can quickly walk the 1/2 block by full block park with trails along the edges and through the middle.

Directions:
From the intersection of 400 North/US-89 and SR-30/US-91 in Logan go est on 400 North for .7 miles. Turn left onto 500 East and travel .1 mile north till you reach the park on your left.

Charleston City Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Charleston City Park is a small town park about 1/10 mile wide by 1/10 mile long.  It sits in the southwest corner of Charleston, just off the shore of Deer Creek Reservoir.  The park is mostly grass covered but there is a small playground on the west side.  Various deciduous and coniferous trees line the streets surrounding the park, while the east half is open space.  The entire perimeter can be walked in about 5 minutes, or birded well in under 10.

Birding:
For a number of years there was a specific reason to travel to Charleston City park in the summer months--breeding COMMON GRACKLE seemed to be an easy get here. Otherwise the birding is typical of other sots in Heber Valley; MOURNING And EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE are rampant--WESTERN KINGBIRD, SAY'S PHOEBE, and  various species of SWALLOW might be seen in the summer months.  RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE, AMERICAN ROBIN, and AMERICAN KESTREL are often present as well.  If passing by Deer Creek in the spring or summer, its probably worth a quick stop to see if the grackles are still using the pines in the southwest corner of the park.

Directions:
From the intersection of Main Street and 1200 South/US-189, head southwest on US-189 for 3.2 miles.  Turn right on to 3600 South and go .5 miles till you reach the park and parking lot on your right.

South end of Boots Cox Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Boot Cox Park is a small park in the middle of St. George, that you would never know existed if you didn't stumble upon or be pointed to it by someone else.  The tiny park is surrounded on the north, east and west sides by homes--utter suburbia.  To the south are pastures that are part of a farm. In the southeast corner are tennis courts, while a small pavilion and playgrounds are just north.  The west half ant eh area north of the playground are all open grass, but the park is entirely surrounded by deciduous trees.  There have been several conifers around the north end as well as the tennis courts, but I think some may have been removed recently.  The large pasture directly south has a seep so the field is often wet.  There is a fence line separating the park form the private property, and a road that is also private going directly south form the tennis courts.  A paved path follows the perimeter of the park.

Birding:
About 5 years ago someone found a pair of VERMILION FLYCATCHERS here, and ever since this has been a regular stop for birders visiting St. George.  The flycatchers are typically found along the south edge of the park bordering the pastures to the south.  Often they are found in the trees here, along the fence line, along the road heading south or i any of the small trees or shrubs in the fields.  As many as 5 have been seen here at once--presumably a breeding pair and offspring.  Sometimes they just aren't present and may just not be here some years.  Other birds often seen here year round include BLACK PHOEBE, SAY'S PHOEBE, NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD, and EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE.  During the winter months WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW, YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER, and AMERICAN PIPIT can usually be found .  In the summer WESTERN KINGBIRD and BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD can be found.  In late May migrants pass through the park and WESTERN TANAGER, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK are all possible.  YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER and ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK have both been found here and the potential for other good migrants and over wintering birds are really good here.

Directions:
From south of St. George, take I-15 exit 6 north for .25 miles and turn right at the 1st light onto Main Street.  Go .7 miles north then turn right onto 700 south.  Go 1.1 miles--just after you go under the freeway take a right onto 900 east and go .5 miles.  The parking lot is on your right--you can also drive to the end of the road and park on the street. Alternatively, form the north you can take I-15 exit 8 and turn left on to St. George Blvd crossing the freeway for .2 miles. Turn right onto River Road and go 1.2 miles. Turn right onto 900 south and go .4 miles.  Turn left onto 900 east and make your way .2 miles to the parking lot on your right.

Sunset at Highland Glen photo by Jeff Cooper

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Description:
Highland Glen is a community park situated between North County Boulevard (4800 W) and Alpine Highway (Hwy 74) in the city of Highland (Utah County). The park's main feature is a pond that is maintained as an urban fishery by the Division of Wildlife Resources. Paved walking trails allow visitors to stroll through the entire park and several habits. A creek called the American Fork River along the west side of the park provides riparian habitat.  A small grove of mostly scrub oak on the northeast corner of the pond and a mix of trees and shrubs on the south end of the pond and park invite a wide range of bird species. Agricultural fields border the east and southeast edge of the park.

Birding:
The peak birding season for the park is during spring migration when waterfowl gather on the pond and hummingbirds, warblers, tanagers, flycatchers, and grosbeaks pass through and breed in the park. Common migrants during spring and often during fall migration include a variety of flycatchers, CASSIN'S, PLUMBEOUS, AND WARBLING VIREOS along with an array of warblers including ORANGE-CROWNED, NASHVILLE, MACGILLIVRAY'S, YELLOW, BLACK-THROATED GRAY, and WILSON'S.

Some of the breeders in the park are MALLARD, CALIFORNIA QUAIL, MOURNING DOVE, BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD, NORTHERN FLICKER, WESTERN SCRUB-JAY, BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, SPOTTED TOWHEE, and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK. 

The agricultural fields east of the park are home to WESTERN MEADOWLARK year round. CASPIAN TERNS and OSPREY are commonly seen hunting over the pond during the spring and summer months. The songs and appearances of LAZULI BUNTINGS add color to the park during the summer. SPOTTED SANDPIPERS can be seen making their twitchy, low-level flights from one side of the pond to the other when park visitors draw near as they enjoy their summer strolls around the pond.

The park is relatively quiet from a birding perspective during winter months, but those who are attentive may discover the winter roost of a WESTERN SCREECH-OWL if they scope out holes in the larger deciduous trees in the park.  SHARP-SHINNED and COOPER'S HAWKS regularly hunt for the year-round residents during early morning hours in the park. The pond often presents open water during winter months where less common WOOD DUCKS and RED-BREASTED and COMMON MERGANSERS may be found. The agricultural fields south of the east entrance to the park welcome large flocks of CANADA GEESE which have included CACKLING and white geese. HORNED LARKS are also regularly seen alternatively foraging and taking short flights in the same fields during the winter.

Directions:
The park can be accessed from the east and the west sides. Take W Cedar Hills Drive heading west from North County Boulevard (N 4800 W) to enter from the east side of the Park. Lone Peak High School will be on your right just before you drop down into the park. Go left through the small roundabout and drive down into the park.  You can also enter the park from Alpine Highway (Hwy 74) by turning east on 10130 N and parking in the lot at the west entrance to the park.

Hidden Valley Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Tucked up against the base of the Wasatch Mountains between Big and Little Willow Canyons in Draper, Hidden Valley Park has an expansive tract of native shrubsteppe habitat covering 2/3 of its grounds with trails leading through the sage. With a parking lot at the north end, a large gazebo/picnic area, playground, and large grassy section this looks like a typical park--but these areas are completely surrounded by shrubsteppe to the east, west, and south.  Further east and south the hills become oak woodland; while to the west houses border the park.  Aside from various paved trails looping both the grassy area, and further out into the sage, tails to both Big Willow Canyon and Little Willow Canyon can be accessed along the east end. The close views of the mountains could potentially be good for hawk-watching.

Birding:
Over the years I have driven by this park countless times. I always wondered what birds might pop up in the sagebrush areas in the spring and early summer but never managed to make it over to check it out,  This year I am planning on stopping by 1 day every week in April, May, and early June to see what's here.  Resident species that can be seen and heard here or along the east side in the oak includes WESTERN SCRUB-JAY, BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE, SPOTTED TOWHEE, and CALIFORNIA QUAIL.  Birds typical of east side suburbia in Utah pass through the park as well and can be heard in the neighborhoods, including LESSER GOLDFINCH and BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE.  During migration birds moving along the hills could easily come in contact with the park, and given the oak habitat some breeders likely include BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, LAZULI BUNTING, and probably VIRGINIA'S WARBLER.  While I've spent time here I have thought the hawk watching could be pretty good from this location with several low peaks close in view.  A small hike might also put you on a good ridge line to see what passes by.  Just north at Bell Canyon in September, BROAD-WINGED HAWKS have been seen among the more common buteos, accipiters, and GOLDEN EAGLES.  This interesting park might be a diamond in the rough worth checking out.

Directions:
From the north taking Wasatch Blvd from I-215 at 6200 South head south past both Cottonwood Canyons.  At 9800 South continue straight another 3.5 miles till you arrive at the park on your left. Pull in to the lot and keep right to go to the parking area for the park.  From the south follow 12300 South in Draper east as it loops north and becomes Draper Parkway just past 1300 East. Eventually turning into 1700 east, take a right on to Wasatch Blvd at about 11700 south.  Follow the road east 1.7 miles till you reach the park on your right.

Oquirrh Lake from Google Street View

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Description:
Within the Daybreak community, man made Oquirrh Lake is approximately 67 acres (Because of its meandering shape, the perimeter of Oquirrh Lake is 3.4 miles.) Walking trails go all around the lake, around an island within the lake on the south end, and there are a couple of cutoffs across the lake to make walking a bit shorter. Parking is available all around the lake so there is good access. The lake is stocked with bluegill, channel catfish, largemouth bass, rainbow trout so fishing is allowed. Boating for Daybreak residents is available during the summer. Small deciduous trees can be found all around the lake, and a small wetland is located in the southeast corner.  On the north end is an expansive beach and marina.  The master plan for the area will have the lake completely surrounded by homes on the opposite sides of the street from the lake, but the lake will be visible from all sides with no obstructed views.

Birding:
The best times to visit Oquirrh Lake are spring and fall during migration. In cold winters the lake freezes over and in the summer there are boats, kayaks, and kids playing in the water so there is little nesting activity along the shore. When I first started birding here a few years ago there were only houses on the east side of the lake. But suburbia is creeping in across all directions now so the makeup of the birding population will undoubtedly be changing. Typical waterfowl include CANADA GOOSE, AMERICAN COOT, MALLARD, RING-NECKED DUCK, CANVASBACK, REDHEAD, COMMON MERGANSER, AMERICAN WIGEON, GADWALL, RUDDY DUCK, CINNAMON and GREEN-WINGED TEAL.  Notable waterfowl sightings include: BLUE-WINGED TEAL,RED-BREASTED MERGANSER, TUNDRA SWAN, ROSS'S GOOSE, CACKLING GOOSE, LESSER SCAUP, WOOD DUCK and even both WHITE-WINGED and SURF SCOTERS.

While PIED-BILLED, EARED, and WESTERN GREBE are expected, there have been reports of HORNED GREBE as well.  CASPIAN and COMMON TERNS have been reported and gulls can be plentiful on the lake during late winter and may include CALIFORNIA, RING-BILLED, HERRING, THAYER'S, and even LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS.

The raptor list consists of AMERICAN KESTREL, MERLIN, PRAIRIE and PEREGRINE FALCON, RED-TAILED HAWK, SWAINSON'S and ROUGH-LEGGED  HAWK, GOLDEN AND BALD EAGLES. 

Other birds of note are WESTERN MEADOWLARK, HORNED LARK, BREWER'S BLACKBIRD, BELTED KINGFISHER, RED-WINGED and YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD, SAY'S PHOEBE, MOURNING DOVE and DARK-EYED JUNCO. Also there are BARN, CLIFF, ROUGH-WINGED and VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOWS in the early summer morning hours.

The area can easily be birded by car, foot, or bike on the trails and various roads.

Directions:
From Bangerter Highway, turn west on either 10400 south/South Jordan Parkway or 11400 south/Daybreak Parkway. Continue west on either street about 1 mile until you arrive at the Lake. There are roads around all sides of the lake allowing for access from various points.

Thanks to Rachel LeBlanc for this location submission.

Springs Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Seegmiller Marsh is a large wetland complex on the Virgin River that is mostly private property.  The south side of the marsh is adjacent to Springs Estate Park and Pond--and 8 acre public park.  Most birders access just Springs Park, but some birding can be done along the north edge at the marsh.  The large pond at the park is the main attraction, and is surrounded by mostly salt cedar, but some other desert scrub as well.  A paved walkway goes all the way around.  A small dirt wash on the north side leads to the marsh which has several access views at the edge of the tamarisk.  Typical wetland habitat in the marshes here make for a great wild habitat.   Future improvements include trail connection to the regional trail system via the Virgin River Trail South Trail.

Birding:
Most birders are unfamiliar with Seegmiller Marsh, but if you mention Springs Park, Springs Pond, or Springs Estate most birders who have been to St. George know what you're talking about.  No visit to the south is complete without at least one stop here most of the year--although summer months are brutally hot, there are still some birds you can see easily here.  Speaking specifically about the pond, during the winter months waterfowl from the north can be found here, with overwintering geese often present.  SNOW GOOSE can be found here most winters, while ROSS'S and CACKLING have also been recorded.  MUTE SWAN are usually found here, but the free flying swans do move around a bit.  Diving Ducks including RING-NECKED DUCK are regulars, while CANVASBACK, HOODED MERGANSER, and GREATER SCAUP show up less frequently.  Year round with some looking you might be able to track down an ABERT'S TOWHEE or CRISSAL THRASHER.  GREEN HERON are resident as well but detected far less.  In the spring, fall, and summer, LESSER NIGHTHAWK are often seen flying over in the evening. The marsh side brings a whole other level of birds with a great riparian habitat that can attract various passerine species.  WILLOW FLYCATCHER, YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT, and BLUE GROSBEAK can all be found here during the breeding season.  COMMON GALLINULE can often be heard here at night, and for years this was the go to place in Utah to find this species.  BARN, BURROWING, and GREAT HORNED OWL have all been reported from here, while SAY'S and BLACK PHOEBE are easy finds year round.  This unassuming park is essentially one of the best urban birding sites in St. George, and very easy to bird whether you have 15 minutes or a few hours.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 8/St. George Blvd go east to River Road just off the freeway. Turn right and head south for 1.8 miles across the Virgin River.  At the light, turn left and continue on 1450 South for 1.1 mile. Turn left onto Springs Drive for .2 miles.  The park will be on your left; turn in here and park.

Thanks to Suzi Holt for contributing on this location submission.

Old Mill Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Old Mill Park and Holding Pond is a small park tucked away along Big Cottonwood Creek in Cottonwood Heights.  Just a mile from the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon the park has a great walking path that run the length of it east to west.  The path continues west along the creek after the park, and east as well to the canyon.  The habitat along the path is mostly riparian as it follows the river.  There are houses on either side of the park to the north and south but sitting in a gully the park is still very wild.  Near the west end is the large holding pond which the creek runs through.  Usually in the spring the pond is filled with run off creating a great resting stop for migrant waterbirds.  Most of the year it has little to no water--often the creek running through it is the only water.  The path goes all the way around the pond here, with a bridge over the river at the inlet.

Birding:
Old Mill Park is an infrequently birded location that has turned up some interesting birds.  The large pond is the main feature and when full could be a great spot to check for waterfowl.  Several RED-BREASTED MERGANSER were seen here during migration in April 2009. Large flocks of swallows may be present in harsh weather during migration as well with easy feeding over the open water. All 6 species have been seen here in the past.  During the breeding season you can expect to find LAZULI BUNTING, YELLOW WARBLER, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, and SONG SPARROW along the riparian habitat.  During the winter keep an eye out for AMERICAN DIPPER that have moved from the fast flowing mountain streams into the calmer waters here in the flats.  Some notable finds here in the past include a large flock of BOHEMIAN WAXWING in the winter of 2010-11; a flyover OSPREY, which could probably be found most years as a migrant; and a pair of COMMON GRACKLE migrating through in April 2009.  Passing through this area, it might be worth a quick stop to see what's on the  water, or if you're looking for a short walk, the trail here makes for great early morning birding.

Directions:
From I-215 east side belt route take exit 6 east bound on to 6200 South/Route 190 for about 400' then take the right onto 3000 east.  Go south to the light at 6485 south/Big Cottonwood Canyon Road and turn left.  Follow this road for .3 miles till you reach the parking area on your right.

Woodlot @ 9800 S 1900 E from Google Street View

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Description:
This locations consists of 2 separate locations across the street from one another.  The original location was for a woodlot at the corner of 9800 South extending 2 block north along 1900 East on the west side of the road.  The habitat consists of mostly open fields, with a small wetland near the south end.  There are several cottonwoods and other deciduous trees and shrubs sporadically found on the south end.  Near the north end of the lot is a patch of Gambel's Oak.  On the east side of 1900/2000 east (the road curves east here) and slightly north (~100') is Alta Canyon Park which consists of 2 baseball fields, in an overflow basin, with a .4 mile path that follows the perimeter.  There are various ornamental conifer and deciduous trees along the path.  At the northeast corner lays Alta Canyon Sports Center and Pool.  Along the south side is a hill leading to private property that is sparsely covered with sage and other native shrubs.  A small patch of Gambel's Oak sits at the west end.  I combined the 2 locations into one since they are easily birded together, and the better native habitat was at the Woodlot--while the park was a more notable public location.

Birding:
For several years I have pulled over at the Woodlot at 9800 S and 1900 E on my way home form work and listened to what is singing, or just to scan the trees, and fences.  I have never seen a lot of birds here but haven't really taken the time to extensively fell out the trees during migration. This spring I am going to make a better effort. Notably a pair of AMERICAN KESTREL can often be seen perched in the trees, or on the houses, or fences at the woodlot.  Occasionally a RED-TAILED HAWK is also seen here, but far less frequently than the kestrel.  During the winter months keep an eye out for MERLIN which might be seen passing over as most winters there are several in the east Sandy area.  BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE and WESTERN SCRUB-JAY are usually seen as well.  During migration there are probably a few passerine species present.  The park has your typical urban fare with CALIFORNIA QUAIL being heard on the slopes and in surrounding neighborhoods with some frequency.

Directions:
From 9400 South and 2000 East in Sandy, head south along 2000 East/Highland Drive.  After 1 block you can turn left and then a quick right into the parking lot for Alta Canyon Sports Center to park.  From here you have easy access to the park path.  Alternatively you can stay straight on 2000 East as it curves west to the light and turn in to park in the Home Depot parking lot.  From here you can walk south along Highland Drive to the Woodlot.  From either parking location you can reach both birding destinations.

Adagio Apartments Pond from Google Street View

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Description:
The Adagio Apartments Pond is a long and narrow pond on the grounds of the Adagio Apartments in Draper city,  The pond is surrounded by open lawn  with scattered trees, and apartments to the north and south.  A small riparian patch on the east end adds tom decent passerine habitat.  The pond lies on the apartment property so you may need to ask for permission to bird the pond from the property side.  You can however view it from the street on 150 East.

Birding:
The Adagio Apartments Pond really got noticed in May 2012 when a TRUMPETER SWAN showed up.  There was some question to the provenance of the bird and I was able to photo what looked like wings that had been clipped at one point.  However, the fre-flying swan was gone within several days showing it could make it on its own.  Aside from the week of attention this location brought, birders usually don't stop here, but I have started driving by about once a month to check things out.  CALIFORNIA GULLS, MALLARDS, and CANADA GEESE are going to be the common species here. Late spring and summer bring other possible waterbirds like AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, and AMERICAN AVOCET.  Of course water in the city scape always has the possibility to turn something interesting up.  With a little more coverage the bird list here will probably grow to include most of the regularly occurring aquatic avian species found at other ponds in nearby Sandy and Draper.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 289 (Bangerter Hwy) in Draper, go east on UT-154 S for .3 miles.  Turn left onto 150 East and follow this .3 miles till you reach the pond on your left. From here you can continue north 250' and take a left into the Apartment Parking lot onto Point Drive (not sure about trespassing issues).  After about 100' turn left again onto Cache Point Lane and go for .1 mile then turning left on to Ensign Point Lane where the pond is now on your left.

Bair Park from Google Street View

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Description:
This tiny city park sits on the east side of Cottonwood Heights sandwiched between Wasatch Blvd and the Wasatch Mountains.  The park is mostly open lawn but is surrounded by coniferous trees on 3 sides. Up until several years ago the park was completely surrounded by trees but everything on the west side was removed in recent years. A cement path leads around the entire park for an easy walk.

Birding:
This pinch point at the base of the mountains likely draws a good number of migrants which is why despite limited visits by birders there has been a good variety of birds seen here including plenty of migrants.  The conifers provide great food sources for winter finches, and PINE SISKIN are reported here from time to time.  EVENING GROSBEAK is perhaps the most notable find here, while various warblers, WESTERN TANAGER, LAZULI BUNTING, CASSIN'S FINCH, and TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE have all shown up.  A GREAT HORNED OWL has also been heard here at night. Although this isn't a mega birding stop it is worth a quick stop if you are traveling between the two Cottonwood Canyons.  The trees closest the parking lot can be birded in 5 minutes making for a a quick check.  Just across the street and a block to the north is a UTA Park and Ride with a small "Wetland" with lots of cattails.  RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD can usually be found here singing in the spring and summer.

Directions:
From the intersection of Wasatch Blvd at 7000 S/E Fort Union (the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon), travel south on Wasatch Blvd for 1.4 miles till you reach the park on your left.

View of the Pond Here from Google Street View

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Description:
This cemetery sits on the south end of Sandy and is mostly open lawn with small to mid sized deciduous trees. There are sparse conifers present as well.  Although the actual birding habitat in the cemetery is sparse there is a pond located on the north end of the area surrounded by coniferous trees and small deciduous and coniferous shrubs.

Birding:
Like the Sandy City Cemetery there isn't a huge bird list here... yet.  Since this location has a pond the odds are it will have a much larger list over time.  Visited during spring and fall migration one may turn up various neotropical migrants given the prime habitat in an otherwise open urban environment.  There are no real notable sightings here yet, but AMERICAN CROW have been seen from time to time, and a MERLIN flyover was reported in March 2015.  The cemetery can be visited on your way to or from Dimple Dell Park which sits just to the north.

Directions:
From 1300 East and 10600 South in Sandy go east .6 miles on 10600 south till you reach the cemetery on your right. Continue another .2 miles to the pond on your right where you can pull off the road.

Sandy Pond from Bing Birds Eye View

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Description:
The Sandy Urban Fishery (or Sandy Pond) is a man made fishing pond that was built along the Jordan River to provide fishing opportunities for locals in the city.  The small pond is only 3 acres but it is one of only a handful of substantial bodies of water found in Sandy.  There are few large native trees, but Russian Olives dominate the landscape to the south. The Jordan River borders the pond on the west, and River Oaks Golf Course borders it on the north and east.  The pond is open year round from sunrise till 10:00pm and is often inundated with fisherman.

Birding:
The Sandy Pond has been a breath of life for water birding in Sandy.  Already boasting 120 + species the pond has no shortage of waterfowl during the winter months, and other waterbirds year round. At the time of writing 23 species of waterfowl have been observed here, most notably GREATER SCAUP have been observed here for 3 winters from 2013-2015. WOOD DUCK, MANDARIN DUCK, and CACKLING GOOSE have all been observed here while diving ducks are often found on the north half of the pond. RING-NECKED DUCK, BUFFLEHEAD, and LESSER SCAUP are usually staple during the winter. NEOTROPIC CORMORANT and HORNED GREBE have both been recorded here, making for great close views on the small pond. The proximity to the parkway and the river provide some great habitat for migrants, and various warblers, sparrows, flycatchers, and other neotropical migrants have been seen here. During irruption winters EVENING GROSBEAK can sometimes be found in the Russian Olives along the river.

Directions:
From State Street at 10000 South/Sego Lily Drive go west 1.3 miles till you reach the run off on your right to the Pond.  10000 South becomes Shields Lane after you go under I-15.  Also from 1300 West you can take Shields Lane east .8 miles till the turn off to the pond is on your left.  Drive north on the road form here till you reach the parking are on your right.

Sandy City Cemetery from Google Street View

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Description:
A small cemetery surrounded by homes and business in Sandy City.  Comprised mostly of a large lawn with numerous large coniferous tree along the east side.  There are trees throughout the cemetery of varying sizes and types.

Birding:
The bird list for the cemetery is small. At the time of this writing is was just 15 species.  The cemetery is notable however, for the small population of AMERICAN CROW that appear to nest hear each spring.  The crows can be seen throughout the year sporadically here, and at several other locations in Sandy

Directions:
The cemetery is located at the corner of 700 east and 9000 south in Sandy to the southwest of the intersection.  It can be entered via both the north and east sides off either 700 east of 9000 south.