BIRD'S EYE VIEW
By Terri Gorney Lehman
Spring is the perfect time for bird watching at Ouabache State Park.
Spring migration typically begins in late February and goes through May. Migration is a mass movement of birds from their wintering grounds in the south to their nesting grounds in the north. By May, bird songs are at their peak at the park.
Red-winged blackbirds are sometimes called the harbingers of spring. They return early, usually by late February or early March.
The males are striking with their glossy black bodies with red and yellow patches on their wings.
They are one of the most abundant birds in North America. Blackbirds perch in the open and have a call that can be described as boisterous.
By March and April, waterfowl can be spotted on Kunkle Lake. Many of the ducks use the park as a resting stop on their way farther north.
May brings the return of the warblers. The small, colorful songsters that can be heard on the trails in the park.
Ouabache has long been known as a good place to observe many species of birds. The former Cardinal Club, an area birding group, was formed in March 1948. Ouabache, known as the Wells County State Forest or the old Bluffton CCC Camp, was a favorite place to meet for bird hikes. In late April 1950, 50 species of birds were seen on the Cardinal Club’s outing. They recorded everything from warblers to waterfowl. These are the same species of birds that can be seen or heard today.
Hoping that all will enjoy the bird life this spring at the park.
Good birding!
Terri Gorney Lehman is known throughout the local birding community for her enthusiasm and support of fellow birders. She is an Advanced Indiana Master Naturalist, member Friends of Ouabache, Friends of the Limberlost, and Stockbridge Audubon Society.
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