GOSHEN, Ind. -- Millions of birds fly south toward their wintering grounds in early September, the peak of migration season.

Wednesday Bird Walk takes place on September 7 from 8-11 a.m. at Benton Dam in River Preserve County Park.

River Preserve County Park provides a crucial stopping point for migrating birds to rest and refuel.

This interpretive hike will be led by local bird guide Annie Aguirre.

"Many people think spring migration is the best time to see birds, but fall can be just as exciting. On a good hike at the preserve, we could encounter over 20 warbler species, not to mention rare birds not normally found in our region, so surprises are around every corner," says Aguirre.

The event is free and open to everyone ages 8 and older.

No registration is required.

Hikers will meet at Benton Dam in River Preserve County Park, one mile south of US-33 on C.R. 31 in Goshen.

The group will head out promptly at 8 a.m.

The Elkhart County Parks offers bird walks on the first Wednesday of every month from 8-10 a.m.

For the remainder of 2022 the events take place:

• October 5 at Kum Mol Rie shelter in Bonneyville Mill County Park
• November 2 at Ox Bow Haus shelter in Ox Bow County Park
• December 7 at Briar Patch shelter in Bonneyville Mill County Park

For more information or to read about more upcoming programs and park activities, visit elkhartcountyparks.org.