Wayne County Indiana is for the birds!
Calling all birdwatchers — get an eyeful of Richmond and the surrounding communities! The natural woods and waterways of Wayne County are home to all sorts of fascinating fine-feathered friends worth a look, especially during the spring months when major migrations are taking place. Don’t forget to bring the binoculars…
Both members of the Indiana Birding Trail, the Cope Environmental Center and Hayes Arboretum are great spots to visit, whether you’re an amateur, intermediate or expert bird enthusiast. Founded by an Earlham College ornithology professor, the wetlands and prairie landscapes of the Cope Environmental Center near Centerville attract a wide variety of winged wildlife, from sparrows and warblers to ducks and hawks. Keep a close eye on the facility’s events calendar for bird walks and other avian-themed activities.
With 330 acres and 16 miles of trails to discover, Hayes Arboretum’s peaceful paths are often visited by wild turkeys, hawks, goldfinches and owls. Pop by the Nature Center on Saturday mornings for free coffee and some relaxing quality time in the bird watching room.
Head over to Middlefork Reservoir and try to spy Bald Eagle aeries in the tall trees that surround Richmond’s biggest body of water. You may also catch glimpses of graceful egrets and blue herons wading along the shoreline. The Cardinal Greenway — the longest rail-trail in Indiana — rolls out a scenic backdrop for observing swallows as they construct their nests beneath the bridges that cross the Whitewater Valley Gorge. All sorts of other winged creatures share space in this beautiful habitat.
You don’t have to be a student or a professor to hike through Earlham College’s back campus thanks to the Earlham Nature Reserve System initiative. The 400-acre forested property supports academic study, research, sustainability and preservation, but it’s also open to the general public for nature walks and private exploration. Team up with the Earlham Birders group on Facebook for organized hikes and themed events throughout the year.
Plan your birdwatching adventure in Wayne County, Indiana at Visitrichmond.org and discover even more things to do throughout the Richmond area. From scenic landscapes and unique attractions to locally loved dining, it’s an ideal destination for a weekend getaway in Indiana.
