Cook Memorial Arboretum

One of the best places to look for birds near Janesville is the Cook Arboretum. Owned by the local school district, the property is part of a larger forest system on the west side of the Rock River northwest of the city. The area supports breeding populations of birds that are sensitive to forest fragmentation. More than 125 species of birds are listed on the property’s species list. An ongoing research project at the site is surveying populations of Hooded and Cerulean Warblers and Acadian Flycatchers. There is an excellent hiking trail linking the property’s varied habitats. Because of its proximity to the river, the arboretum holds birds in all seasons.

Directions: From Janesville, travel west 1 mile on Cty A to its intersection with Austin Road.

Gazetteer: Page 28, C-4 (prior to 10th edition). | Page 93, C-6 (10th edition).

Phone: 608/758-6553 (Tom Klubertanz).

Web site: Cook Arboretum

Signature Species: Tufted Titmouse, Blue-winged Warbler and White-eyed Vireo.

Rare species: Cerulean Warbler, Hooded Warbler and Acadian Flycatcher.

Parking: Parking lot.

Nearest food & lodging: Janesville.