Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge opens weekends

The headquarters building/visitor center at Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) located in the Towns of Alabama and Shelby, will be open on weekends for the fall season. Beginning September 19 and extending through November 16, the building will be open to visitors on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is in addition to the Refuge's regular hours of Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Refuge headquarters, located at 1101 Casey Road, houses many wildlife-oriented exhibits and displays. Also, the new Flyway Nature Shop, operated by the Friends of Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, Inc., will be open as staff permits. The shop offers a variety of nature related items including books, toys, and artwork for sale.

The Buffalo Audubon Society will provide fall programs called "Iroquois Observations" from October 5 through November 2. Programs including: birding tours, nature walks, a lecture on waterfowl and staffed spotting scopes are offered free of charge on most Saturdays. For a complete schedule, contact the refuge at 585-948-5445 or log onto www.wildeyes.com/iroquois.

Peak waterfowl migration is generally during the first two to three weeks in October, but it may occur as late as early November. Migration periods tend to vary since they are weather dependent. If it is a mild fall, then birds tend to stay in their northern nesting grounds longer. Currently, Canada geese, mallards, American widgeon, and wood ducks can be seen on the Refuge. Of the four overlooks, Cayuga seems to have the largest numbers, although birds may be difficult to see amongst the heavy vegetation; so binoculars may be needed. Recent sightings include bald eagles and black crowned night herons. As the season progresses, birds will be more plentiful at the other overlooks at well. Two nature trails on the Refuge are open from sunrise to sunset for self-guided visits.