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While Lafayette, LA may be better known for its rich history or vibrant music scene, head just a little way out of town and you’ll find it’s also a vital birdwatching hub due to its location on the Mississippi Flyway, an important route for migratory birds. It’s also very close to Atchafalaya, part of America’s Wetland Birding Trails, a collection of the most important birding sites along the Gulf of Mexico. So, grab your binoculars and spotting book and see what you can spot.
1. Atchafalaya National Heritage Area
The Atchafalaya National Heritage Area protects a vast freshwater swamp at the heart of the Atchafalaya River Basin. Almost 400 separate bird species can be found in this area, especially waders such as herons, egrets, and spoonbills. It is also an important wintering ground for migratory birds such as ducks and geese. Birds of prey such as eagles are also frequently spotted here, and it’s not unusual to see kites and warblers in the warmer months.
Some of the best sightings of wading birds are found in the Lake Martin/Cypress Island Preserve, as is Jefferson Island; the latter attracts spoonbills in large numbers. Whooping cranes can sometimes be spotted throughout the Lafayette Area.
2. Sherburne Wildlife Complex
This large wildlife management area to the east of Lafayette protects an important transition zone between coniferous upland forests, southeastern broadleaf forests, and the prairie remnants to the west. Interspersed with the various ecosystems is a mixture of swampland and riverine habitat, all of which contribute to the wide diversity of birdlife found here.
One of the best times to visit the area is in October when thousands of sandhill cranes converge here; for them, the refuge is a vital staging ground before they continue their journey south for the winter. Visit at dawn or dusk to see thousands fly overhead into and out of the refuge. Other birds that may be sighted here include red-headed woodpeckers, trumpeter swans, and several species of marshland birds.
3. White Lake Wetlands Conservation Area
Donated to the state by BP in 2002, White Lake Wetlands is a large area of freshwater marsh that has several wading bird rookeries and is an important side for numerous migratory and resident species. As many as 174 bird species have been documented here. Viewing is best from the 2-mile nature trail on the northern edge of the area.
Some of the species you can expect to see include rare species such as the resident breeding pair of great kiskadees, prairie falcons, and gray flycatchers. More common sightings include swamp sparrows, grosbeaks, buntings, and grackles. Aquatic bird species include cormorants, pelicans, and whooping cranes.
The spots on this list are our favorite places to go birding, but perhaps there’s something we’ve missed? Then visit us at Service Chevrolet Cadillac today and put us straight! Looking for a new car or SUV? We’re the best place to go, with years of experience at helping customers find their dream vehicle.