Thanks
to a generous donation by the Iowa Ornithologist's Union opportunities
to view prairie chickens in Ringold County have greatly improved.
The Iowa Ornithologist's Union donated a commercial spotting scope to the
DNR in 2000 and it has been installed on the handicapped accessible viewing
platform at the Kellerton Bird Conservation Area. The addition of
this viewing scope will allow those without their own binoculars and spotting
scopes to enjoy the annual spring booming at Kellerton.
Last year we didn't get
the word out soon enough for the peak booming activity at Kellerton so
this year we're making our announcement in advance of the peak prairie
chicken booming period. Individuals interested in viewing the annual
spring ritual of prairie chickens should plan a trip to Ringold County
and the Kellerton Bird Conservation Area between late March and early May.
An early morning trip in mid-April will provide the best viewing opportunities
and should provide slightly warmer weather than we are experiencing at
the present time. Those scheduling a trip in March should see early
prairie chicken activity, but may also see movements of snow geese passing
over the area on their northward migration.
This
spring, visitors to Kellerton will find that the Conservation Area has
grown in size following land acquisitions purchased from willing sellers
that support the efforts of the DNR protect this landscape for wildlife
and future generations of Iowans.
For individuals who missed
our earlier article about the prairie chicken restoration at Kellerton,
you can follow this link to learn more about
the prairie chickens of Ringold County.
For additional information
contact Mel Moe at (641) 464-2220.
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