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BIRDWATCHING
Are you planning a birding trip to Henderson? We have several prime birding sites, as well as museums and tours that are perfect for birding enthusiasts!
| JOHN JAMES AUDUBON STATE PARK, MUSEUM AND NATURE CENTER |
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This state park in Henderson is the site of one of the largest art collections of internationally known wildlife artist, John James Audubon. Many other nature-related artworks are periodically on display at the museum. John James Audubon, the first artist or ornithologist to depict life-size birds and animals in their natural surroundings, lived in Henderson for longer than he lived in any other place in the United States. |
| He valued Henderson because of its position on the Mississippi flyway, a bird migration route. The park preserves the peaceful woods where the famed naturalist walked as he observed the subjects of his paintings. Call (270) 826-2247 or go to the John James Audubon State Park and Museum web site. |
Habitat and trail info: There are 7 miles of walking trails made up of upland and bottomland hardwood forests and lakes.The trails vary in difficulty and length.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The hiking trails provide a perfect opportunity to observe over 20 species of warblers that migrate through Audubon in the springtime. Belted kingfisher, green heron, woodpeckers, prothonotary warbler and waterfowl may also be observed.
Best place to look for birds: The observation center looks out over established feeding stations and native plant gardens.The 2-mile wilderness lake loop trail through the nature preserve offers the greatest habitat and bird species diversity.
| SLOUGHS WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA |
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One of the National Audubon Society's Important Birding Areas, the Sloughs WMA contains nearly 10,000 acres of wetlands, home to nearly 10,000 geese and 10,000 ducks during the winter. A paradise for hunters, fishermen, campers, hikers and nature lovers. Directions: From John James Audubon State Park, take US 60 South (9 miles) to KY 136 to Geneva (2 miles) then take KY 268 NW (6.5 miles) to Sauerheber Refuge on the left. |
| Info: Download the Sloughs Wildlife Viewing Trail Map or Sloughs WMA Maps or call the Sloughs WMA Office (270) 827-2673. |
Sauerheber Refuge Habitat and trail info: A 1,775-acre waterfowl refuge provides habitat for up to 10,000 geese and 10,000 ducks winter annually. Closed seasonally November 1 through March 15. Observation platforms near refuge edge are open year-round.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: One can view geese, American Widgeon, Green-Winged Teal, American Avocet, Common Snipe as well as many other shorebirds and waterfowl. Swamp rabbit, squirrel, deer, quail, raccoon, beaver, coyote, and dove are found here as well.
Jenny Hole-Highland Creek Unit: The Unit offers sloughs, bottomland hardwoods and some brushy areas. This is one of Kentucky's largest Great Blue Heron rookeries. Limited access by gravel roads. Primitive camping is available.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Prothonotary Warbler, Great Egret, waterfowl, swamp rabbit, squirrel, deer, quail, raccoon, beaver, coyote and dove are all found here.
HIGGINSON-HENRY WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA
Located 20 miles south of Henderson in Morganfield, KY. The 5,424-acre area provides various birdwatching opportunities. The 82-acre lake and shallow water impoundment areas hold a variety of waterfowl, wading and shorebirds during the fall and winter. The terrestrial habitat encompasses old field to mature hardwood forest and holds a large variety of songbirds throughout the year. Directions: From John James Audubon State Park, take US60 South to Morganfield (29 miles), turn east on KY56 (2 miles). Entrance on right. Info: (270) 389-3580.
Habitat and trail info: Primarily forested with both hardwood, pine and mixed forest communities, rolling hills, and numerous small clearings. Ten miles of hiking trails, 18 miles of roads, and many old roads which may be hiked. 80-acre lake and two smaller lakes. Camping and picnic area available.
Bird Viewing Opportunities: Acadian Flycatcher, Red-eyed Vireo, Pine Warbler and Louisiana Waterthrush are all found here.
JOHN JAMES AUDUBON BIRDING TRAIL
Four driving tours to cypress swamps, woodlands and marshes where hundreds of species of birds can be found in Western Kentucky. To request a brochure click here.
| AUDUBON SCULPTURE WALKING TOUR |
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Twelve life-sized Audubon Bird Sculptures in beautiful downtown Henderson were created by Kentucky native Raymond Graf from Audubon's portfolio. For detailed tour information click here. An additional Audubon sculpture by Graf was recently unveiled at Audubon State Park & Museum. |
Looking for a place to stay on your birding trip? Go to our Accommodations page and book now with one of our quality area hotels or bed and breakfasts!
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