A Path Less Travelled: Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge
I cannot begin to count the number of times I have driven through this area without noticing what it was and, even though I like to consider myself relatively observant, it probably is an indication of how many other people do the same. During the Covid-19 pandemic, I spent a decent amount of time exploring the refuge through the lens of an old pair of binoculars and I have since expanded my birdwatching kit as well as my experience with the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge.
According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service:
Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1958 primarily for nesting, resting, feeding, and staging areas for migratory waterfowl. Iroquois Refuge was one of the first Important Bird Areas (IBA) identified in New York State. The varied habitats of the Refuge include a total of 10,828 acres of forested wetlands, marshland, upland forests, grasslands, and shrublands.
It seems rather difficult for 10,000 acres of land to go unnoticed by passersby but I shouldn't be surprised. The INWR is just one of several swamps in the area, all of which are the remnants of the Tonawanda Lake that covered most of Western New York during the last glacial period.
About The Refuge:
The Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, birding, boating, fishing, biking, and hunting/trapping. There are multiple overlooks to visit and trails that run through the heart of the swamps, as well as special events.
The refuge is perfect for bird and wildlife enthusiasts. During the fall, the trees turn a fiery yellow while the shrubs turn a deep red and the spring brings hundreds of wildflowers with it. Overnight camping, parking, and fires are prohibited but the refuge is open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
For more information, check out the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website.