| Beaver |
| DESCRIPTION: Independence Marsh features two large ponds, the larger of which attracts all manner of waterfowl in spring and fall. The smaller pond is more heavily vegetated and more truly a marsh, and therefore attracts marsh-dwelling birds such as Blue-winged Teal and Swamp Sparrow. Occasionally, American Bittern, Great Egret, Virginia Rail, and Marsh Wren are also noted on migration, as are Bald Eagle and Osprey. The site is home to a number of breeding species including Green Heron, Willow Flycatcher, Tree Swallow, Eastern Bluebird, Yellow Warbler, and Common Yellowthroat, among others. In fall, Fox and Lincoln's sparrows are fairly reliable here during the peaks of their passage. During summers featuring little rainfall, the smaller pond dries up completely, while the larger pond develops extensive mudflats and can be quite good for shorebirding in August and September. Common species such as Least, Semipalmated, and Pectoral sandpipers, and both yellowlegs can be found with regularity, while rarities have included Stilt, White-rumped, and Baird's sandpipers, and Black-bellied Plover. Independence Marsh provides the best publicly accessible shorebirding in landlocked Beaver County, however, the conditions of the mudflats are variable from year to year and in some years both ponds remain flooded throughout the summer. There is no fee, though the gate may be locked at unpredictable times; however, as a general rule the gate is always open. There are flat trails around both of the ponds that can be leisurely hiked and birded in about one hour. Waterproof shoes are recommended for hiking. |
DIRECTIONS: From the Raccoon Creek State Park Office on PA 18, head north on PA 18 for 4.6 miles to the intersection with PA 151. Turn right on PA 151 and drive for 4.8 miles to Cowpath Road and turn left. Follow Cowpath Road for 0.3 miles to a green iron gate on the right, which marks the entrance to Independence Marsh. There should be a sign that reads "Beaver County Conservation District" here -- note that "Independence Marsh" is simply a colloquial name for the place used by birders. Follow the dirt access road to a parking area at an interpretive center (9 AM to 4 PM M-F). Alternatively you may reach the marsh by exiting I 376 at the PA 151 exit (Exit 48) and heading west on PA 151 for 2.9 miles to Cowpath Road, where you turn right and follow directions above. |
|
Maps - other than Google (Click on map for larger view)
|
|
Sub-sites |
Photos |
| Posted: 2009-10-24 00:00:00 Updated: |
