From Cacophony to Choir: Decoding the Sounds of Spring

Location: Home of Shawn & Detra Dettmann, view map, 2548 Lake Meyer Rd, Fort Atkinson, IA

Every spring, a predictable clockwork begins on the forest floor. As “spring ephemeral” wildflowers race to bloom before the trees leaf out, a parallel symphony unfolds among our local wildlife. Just as songbirds return in a specific order, our frogs and toads emerge in a steady, seasonal succession.

Join us as we explore the seasonal progression of frog calls in our region. You’ll learn to identify individual species by their unique songs, transforming a pond’s chaotic cacophony into a choir of distinct voices.

Presenter Spotlight: With a background in Wildlife Biology and early career experience as a county naturalist, Detra Dettmann brings a lifetime of conservation knowledge and passion to this program.

**Location: Dettmann residence at 2548 Lake Meyer Road, Fort Atkinson. 

Directions: Travel to Lake Meyer County Park (follow signs turning off Hwy 24 south of Calmar on to Lake Meyer Road). When coming down the hill into the park take the driveway on the right that climbs uphill next to a farm field. The lake will be on your left.  (There will be a “UU” sign at the bottom to confirm the driveway.) Drive all the way up and find a place to park. Parking on the grass is fine.

Seating: A variety of seating will be available, but if you have a favorite lawn chair feel free to bring it.