Spring begins at Iroquois Wildlife Refuge

Over the next few months, hundreds of species of birds and mammals will be raising their young in the marshes, woods and fields found within Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge in Alabama, New York.

The refuge is also a stop over point for thousands of birds on their way to nesting grounds in Canada. To provide safe, undisturbed nesting and resting space, most of the refuge will be closed to people. In the past, visitors have seen signs indicating areas closed to public access.

Areas which are open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week include the Onondaga Trail on Sour Springs Road and Kanyoo Trail on Route 77, the Feeder Road and the four overlooks. The feeder road will be closed to vehicle traffic. After the official ribbon cutting ceremony on April 15 at 10:30 a.m., the Swallow Hollow Nature Trail will be open once again. This popular boardwalk trail has undergone a complete renovation. Fishing will be limited to Oak Orchard Creek and Ringneck Marsh. Contact the refuge at 585-948-5445 or visit http://iroquoisnwr.fws.gov for information.

Buffalo Audubon Society will present Iroquois Observations. Planned activities include nature walks, kid's activities, scope watches and driving tours to popular birding spots. The popular "Focus on..." series will feature a different subject and guest speaker each week. For a schedule, contact the refuge office or log on to: www.wildeyes.com/iroquois/schedule.htm.

March 12, 2006