Saturday May 9th is Cornell Lab's Global Big Day. You can learn more about it at this link: https://ebird.org/news/global-big-day-2026.

Rather than forming a team and competing in a big day of birding, we are going to spend the morning birding at Ozark Isle which is located in Marion County at the end of CR 141. A newly improved parking area is available on the left side of the road before the gate that leads to the causeway.

Come join us as we walk across the causeway and around the old campgrounds scanning the lake and trees for birds. We will spend about 3 hours walking 3-5 miles on the paved portions of the preserve, though participants can leave at anytime. Bring your binoculars and/or cameras; dress for the spring weather remembering to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun and insects.

If you aren't interested in walking and birding with a group, you can bring your bike and pedal around the park or launch your kayak from Oakland Campground (day use fees apply) and paddle around the park.

Ozark Isle does not have any bathroom facilities. The closest are located at the Oakland Campground assuming they have been opened for the season by May 9th.

Tony & I plan to eat lunch at Beer Belly's Bar & Grill in Gainesville MO after birding in the morning. Feel free to join us: https://www.beerbellysbarandgrill.com/

If you are interested in competing in the Global Big Day competition, Arkansas Audubon with the support of Audubon Delta is hosting one. If you want to form a team, you can learn more about it and register for it at this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScBubTjhhQXhHoyQNrDVoXo7uw4Fm-LfKu0wnmZA02_jf7xTA/viewform