Bird Camp Location Set

The Bird Camp location has been set for the north bank Portage Creek. Downloadable directions are available here in Adobe pdf format. GPS coordinates for the globally minded are 44 38.150’ by -84 53.679’. The roads in and out are decent but there is ample opportunity for wrong turns, so if you are unsure, try to assemble a good collection of cell phone numbers. You can start with this one: (231) 218-0552. Or follow someone in. Or stop your car, step out, and listen for the sound of a potato cannon. It will sound something like this:

“I don’t know why it won’t fire. Maybe it needs more gas”.

Essential Gear

This year we will be returning to our roots, boldly going forth into the wilderness. As such, we may be lacking in certain creature comforts if we don’t make a coordinated effort. I will bring the fresh air style, lawn chair turned outhouse, Commando Commode, complete with T.P., magazine, and gun holders. Other items that may be handy include, but are limited to, chain saw, circus tent/awning, deep fryer, poker table, extra potatoes, etc. Indicate in the comment section if you can bring any of these items.

I’m sure we will be able to find a discarded couch in the woods to help cushion Baron Von Firewalker's landing this year so there should be no need to bring one of those.

What’s The Flap Over Grouse Drumming ?

Signs are encouraging for high grouse numbers this year. This spring I flushed probably three times as many grouse broods as normal, and those not caring for the broods were on the make. In fact, there was so much drumming it sounded like the beating of a two year old at K-Mart, or perhaps, the beating of a Grand Canyon mule.

I’ve always wanted to film the actual drumming, so this year I setup a camera near a location where I thought the drumming was originating. Now, for the first time, I am pleased to present photo documentation of the process used to make that hypnotizing drumming sound.

Upon viewing the photos for the first time, the memory was seared…, seared in me.