Janesville's Cook Arboretum - Tom Klubertanz

The Cook Arboretum is one of the premier birding spots in Rock County. It contains a variety of habitat types, including bottomland forest, riparian forest, scrub, field, and conifers. Several forest-interior species are found at the arboretum, including nesting Hooded and Cerulean warblers, Wood Thrush, Ovenbird, Yellow-throated Vireo, and Tufted Titmouse. Warbler diversity is excellent, with over 20 warbler species expected in late May. Relative rarities found at the site in past years include Kentucky Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, White-eyed Vireo, both cuckoos, and Bobolink. The trails are well-groomed, but the terrain is rugged. Be prepared for a good cardiovascular workout.

We will meet at 7:30 a.m. at the parking lot at the end of the drive.

From Madison: Take Hwy 14 south through Evansville. Before Janesville, take County Rd H south (right) 1 mile to County Rd A. Take County Rd A east (left) about 3 miles. The arboretum is on the left side, at Austin Road, 1 mile before Janesville. Travel time will be approximately 40 minutes from the Madison Beltline.

From I-90 and through Janesville: Take Interstate 90 to Hwy 26 (Milton Ave) interchange. Take Hwy 26 into Janesville to Hwy 14. Take Hwy 14 west (right) 5 miles to Hwy 51. Take Hwy 51 south (left) 4 miles to Memorial Drive. Take Memorial Drive west (right) to the edge of town. Memorial Drive becomes County Rd A. The arboretum is on the right, just outside the city limits.

If you have questions, contact Tom Klubertanz at tklubert@uwc.edu or (608)758-6553.