Refuge added to statewide birding trail

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Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge in Seymour has been added to the Indiana Audubon Society’s Indiana Birding Trail.

The trail, which was completed in December 2019, is a network of 64 sites to view birds in five regions throughout the state.

A sign has been placed at the refuge where visitors may scan a QR code on their smartphones to learn more about the trail. The refuge also has brochures placed at its visitor center with information.

The Indiana Audubon Society’s purpose is to help conserve natural resources, especially birds, to stimulate public appreciation.

“It’s a wonderful trail that will help us increase the number of visitors here at the refuge,” Park Ranger Donna Stanley said. “It was a big project for them, and we are excited to be part of it.”

The birding trail is helpful to the refuge, which was established in 1966 to manage migratory birds on its 7,724 acres of forest, wetlands and grasslands. The refuge organizes multiple bird events, including monthly bird walks, bird counts, A Celebration of Cranes, Wings Over Muscatatuck and more.

The annual Christmas bird count at Muscatatuck was conducted New Year’s Day. Volunteer participants found 69 different species, including six bald eagles.

A bird count Jan. 10 showed 40,120 sandhill cranes, 816 mallards, 489 Canada geese, 30 gadwalls, four wigeons and four shovelers.

Arann Banks, executive director of the Jackson County Visitor Center, said the network of birding opportunities will help connect people to Jackson County, which opens the possibility of introducing them to other sites here.

“This is a positive thing for Jackson County because it is another opportunity for people to visit us here and explore what we have to offer,” she said. “In addition to visiting the refuge, people may also discover our wonderful restaurants, shops, landmarks and history.”

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For information about the Indiana Birding Trail, visit indianabirdingtrail.com.

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