When Terre Haute Tribune-Star columnist Mike Lunsford is looking to capture a great photo of birds, he walks through the Wabashiki wetlands.
Ginger Murphy, the deputy director for stewardship for Indiana State Parks, recommends the viewing window inside the nature center at Turkey State Park.
And Marilyn Culler, a Greencastle photographer who blogs about nature on visitindiana.com, is simply cruising the Putnam County trunk in her search for the perfect sunset, wildflower or animal.
Regardless of whether someone is looking for established parkland or open deserts, the three tips that Hoosiers should seek are a deeper connection with nature: Go west.
They highlighted nine specific areas that were considered perfect for photographing – or simply observing – some of Indiana’s best wildlife.
“Not many people think of western central Indiana as an exciting place to go exploring,” Culler said, “but it’s beautiful.”
For the purposes of this article, the region is bounded by the Gorge Bog Nature Area to the north and the Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area to the south. All that, it spans a two-and-a-half-hour journey from West Lafayette to Linton. Apart from Celery Bog, all locations are within an hour drive from Terre Haute.
One reason to visit the western part of Indiana, Murphy says, is because of the range in habitats, wildlife and recreation opportunities.
“There’s a variety based on what you want to do and want to see,” Murphy said. “You will find where your niche is that you are most interested in.”
‘You’re never too old to pick up a hobby’
Lunsford retired from his job as a high school teacher in 2018. See the article : Indiana-raised rapper ‘Kid Quil’ to perform at Pacers half-time tonight. When not penning newspaper columns or writing books, Lunsford now finds himself carrying his Canon EOS 6D into the woods or wetlands near his home in rural Parke County.
It wasn’t until a few years ago that he began to consider himself a photographer. At the time, the editor of his newspaper asked Lunsford if he would consider taking pictures to run with his columns. So Lunsford bought a camera.
He became obsessed, Lunsford said.
“I think I’m living proof that you’re never too old to pick up a hobby,” Lunsford said. “I’m 65, and I feel it’s just become a passion of mine over the last five or six years.”
It helps that Lunsford tends to spend his time hiking in the woods. Now when he is witnessing a memorable moment in nature, he can record the picture and bring it home with him.
While some friends prefer birds of prey, such as hawks, eagles and ospreys, Lunsford said he greatly enjoys looking for small birds, such as warblers, chicks and tufted titles.
One of his favorite spots is Big Raccoon Creek, which borders Cecil M. Harden Lake.
He also ventures south from his home to Vigo County. He noted that Terre Haute is one of 15 cities to be labeled “Bird Town” by the Indiana Audubon Society.
And in West Terre Haute, right off the U.S. 40, there is a hiking trailhead along the Wabashiki Trail. That area, near the Wabash River, is great for observing a variety of birds and other wildlife, Lunsford said.
‘We live in a beautiful world’
Culler’s day job is at DePauw University, where he teaches photojournalism to honor students and help them pursue internships in media careers. This may interest you : Indiana coronavirus updates: Lawmakers take up vaccine limits amid COVID-19 surge.
But his first job out of college in the 1980s was working as a photographer for the Indiana DNR. Now she publishes her nature photography on the Indiana tourism website while hitting Indiana trunk roads.
One day last winter, while wandering Montgomery County for a blog about historic basketball gyms, Culler caught a glimpse of the roadside color.
He pulled over to find three pairs of wood ducks collected in a flooded field. He was captivated by the scene.
“That illusion of the color of the wood ducks in the late afternoon light was just as beautiful,” Culler said. “There’s a real depth to just driving down the road and just paying attention.”
Like Lunsford, Culler enjoys drawing birds greatly, but she has also photographed other Indiana wildlife.
She has photographed a white-tailed deer, and at one point she was watching a mink bound along a creek close to it.
Culler picked up another unique scene while exploring Turtle Bend, a nature reserve in Parke County. Looking over a hill and down to a creek, he saw about 10 soft turtles, including some that were just starting to dig into the ground.
Each of the moments reminds Culler of the joy that any trip to the Indiana Desert brings. This is also what motivates her to carry her Nikon D750 and post her photos online.
“I put the stuff out there because we live in a beautiful world, and I want to share my opinion,” Culler said, “and hope to make people smile or bring them some kind of happiness. “
Places to visit in west central Indiana
Note: All of these places are included on Google Map created by IndyStar. This may interest you : Indiana Pacers: Intent to rebuild may ultimately be a facade to actually retool.
Cecil M. Harden Lake
Cecil M. Harden Lake, at 1588 S. Raccoon Parkway in Rockville, emerged after damaging Big Raccoon Creek.
Now the venue, which includes the Raccoon Provincial Recreation Area, is full of opportunities for wildlife observation. Culler photographed a pelicans migrating through, and said she had seen them sticking around as late as February. Lunsford has photographed bald eagles, beavers and butterflies alongside Big Raccoon Creek.
Celery Bog Nature Area
Celery Bog, at 1620 Lindberg Road in West Lafayette, is on the northern edge of this list. It is home to large bodies of water and more than 100 types of birds. Anyone who joins various Indiana wildlife groups on Facebook will be greeted with several action shots captured somewhere along Celery Bog’s nearly 200 acres.
Chinook Fish and Wildlife Area
The Chinook Fish and Wildlife Area, on North Cory Staunton Road in Brazil, was once an area for coal mining. Now it has been restored. Culler said she has driven along gravel roads to see wildlife, including herons, snow-crags and even yellow-fined cuckoo. “I always learn what’s in Indiana and what’s in my backyard by going the back roads only,” he said.
Deer Creek Fish and Wildlife Area
Deer Creek, at 2001 W. County Road 600 South in Greencastle, is a newer recreational area, which means it tends to be less busy. “I’m constantly amazed at how few people are down around Deer Creek,” Culler said. “Fish and wildlife areas are our undiscovered gems for wildlife viewing.”
Culler noted that she chooses to go to other areas during a given hunting season, because Deer Creek can be popular with hunters. The Indiana DNR website contains details of hunting seasons.
Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area
Goose Pool, at 13540 W. County Road 400 South in Linton, is the southernmost location on this list. Covering more than 9,000 acres, Goose Pool is one of the most popular destinations for birders. One of the most well-known visitors is the flood water crane, which has a particularly expressive courtesy ritual that seems to make the bird dance. Visitors to Goose Pool can stop near the nature center to ask for tips on noticing the cranes during their migrations throughout the area.
J.I. Case Wetland Wildlife Refuge
J.I. Case Wetland Wildlife Refuge, on East Old Pale Avenue in Terre Haute, is a favorite spot for Lunsford when it is looking for birds, turtles and frogs. There are trails attached to Hawthorn Park.
Shades State Park
Shades State Park, at 7751 S. 890 West in Waveland, includes the Pine Hills Nature Preserve. It was the first reserve established in Indiana, said Murphy, who works for the state parks department. “That’s the best of Indiana’s resources,” Murphy said. Shades is also home to one of the state’s best campgrounds.
Turkey Run State Park
Turkey Run, at 8121 E. Park Road in Marshall, is where Hoosier Desert lovers visit for natural beauty, especially the sandstone canyons.
The park’s nature center also features a separate room designed to observe wildlife through a viewing window. Culler is a fan of the park’s Eagle in Flight Weekend each January, when guides help visitors remotely observe bald eagle nests.
Wabashiki Fish and Wildlife Area
Wabashiki, at 110 E. National Ave. in Terre Haute, equals 2,600 acres of floodplains along the Wabash River. Culler has seen turtles basking in the water and watched snow egrets fly. The Dewey Point Trailhead in West Terre Haute is a good starting point, with access to a new boardwalk that borders the wetlands and connects to Terre Haute.
“Wandering anywhere along the Wabash is a great opportunity for bird and wildlife photography,” Culler said.
Contact IndyStar investigative reporter Ryan Martin at ryan.martin@indystar.com or by phone, Signal or WhatsApp at 317-500-4897. Follow him on Facebook or Twitter: @ryanmartin.
The cost is $ 25 per person but the fee is very reasonable because of what they do there.
What’s the new ride at Adventure Island?
Coming in Spring 2022. Opens March 2022 – Two new attractions will make a splash on Adventure Island, in time for spring break! Race down the brand new Rapids Racer dual water slide & amp; splash to the beat of the new Wahoo Remix.
What are the rides on Adventure Island?
Do you have to wear a mask at Adventure Island?
At Adventure Island, some parts of the park, such as the entrance, will require facemasks, but are prohibited in the water and at water attractions. Visitors will also need to undergo temperature screening to enter the parks. Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or above will not be allowed entry.
Do you bring towels to Adventure Island?
For a day in the sun and splashing in the water, you will need to bring the following items: Appropriate swimwear. Towel.
Is there a weight limit at Adventure Island?
Ride Requirements Age / Height Restrictions: Cyclists must be at least 48 inches tall to ride, and be able to maintain a proper riding position unaided. Weight Restrictions: 300 lbs. Clothing Restrictions: Eyeglasses must have head straps. Swimwear with open metal zippers, buckles, rivets or belts is not permitted.
Do you have to wear a mask at SeaWorld Orlando?
SeaWorld Orlando has updated their mask policy, recommending that guests wear masks and face covers at all indoor locations in the park, regardless of whether they are vaccinated or not. … The CDC has stated that fully vaccinated people can be in outdoor areas without the need for face covering.
What happened to Wahoo Run Adventure Island?
| Run Wahoo | |
|---|---|
| Opening date | 2000 |
| Closing date | 2021 |
| General statistics | |
| Good | Water slide |
What happened to Runaway Rapids at Adventure Island?
A new permit filed and approved by the City of Tampa last week confirms that Runaway Rapids in Adventure Island will be demolished. The plans attached to the permit appear to be original drawings from 1979, the year before the park opened. …
What happened Adventure Island?
With competition from more than half a dozen water parks in the Orlando market, Tampa’s Adventure Island is often an afterthought. … After remaining closed for the 2020 season, the Runaway Rapids, the park’s first body slides, were demolished early this year.
Why did Adventure Island close?
Busch Gardens, Adventure Island and SeaWorld close to stop the spread of COVID-19.
How many rides are in Adventure Island?
How many rides are there on Adventure Island? At the time of writing, Adventure Island had over 40 rides suitable for all ages and levels of thrill.
Do you have to wear a mask at the Indianapolis Zoo?
Masks are not required at the Zoo, including in indoor spaces. Anyone who wants to wear a mask is welcome to do so. … Your entry includes full access to all exhibits at Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens.
Is the Indianapolis Zoo For Sale? Indianapolis Zoo named one of ’10 Best Zoos in the United States. ‘and out-of-towners agree. … Absolutely, at least according to Conde Nast Traveler, who recently released his list of the nation’s best zoos, noting that the Indianapolis Zoo “is the only park in America that is certified as a zoo,” an aquarium, and a zoological garden. “
What day is the Indianapolis Zoo free?
Free Admission to Indianapolis Zoo Day (January 18, 2021)
Are there any free days at the Indianapolis Zoo?
They also offer four free days each year: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President’s Day, Children’s Day (April 30 this year) and Christmas Eve. The zoo offers free admission on Martin Luther King Jr. … If you’re budgeting for the zoo, don’t forget to include the cost of parking.
What day is the Children’s Museum free in Indianapolis?
Our Free Days – Martin Luther King Jr. Day, President’s Day, Fiesta de la Familia, and Christmas Eve are free to all. We do not charge admission on our free days. We believe that the world’s largest and best children’s museum should be accessible to all.
What day is the Children’s Museum free?
Enjoy the free Museum every Thursday! Book tickets at 9 am every Monday.
How long does it take to go through the Indianapolis Zoo?
Standard admission for high demand days is $ 28.20 for adults and $ 21.20 for children. If you want to go during the week, that fee drops to $ 15.70 and $ 11.95, the same as high-end film. On top of that, it will probably take you four hours to do everything at the zoo.
How long is the dolphin show at Indianapolis Zoo?
Experience the Dolphins World! This 90 minute Dolphin Water Adventure program includes: A classroom session on dolphin characteristics, adaptations and training. Seats reserved for the Dolphin Presentation. 30 minutes of poolside time and in water with our coaches and dolphins.
Does the Indianapolis Zoo have a rollercoaster?
Test the Charge The coaster reaches a top speed of 21mph over a track 656 feet long with a maximum height of 24 feet.
How big is the Indy Zoo?
Located in White River State Park along scenic riverbanks, Indianapolis Zoo offers 64 acres of indoor and outdoor animal attractions as well as an additional three acres of outdoor gardens.
Are reservations still required for the Indianapolis Zoo?
No need to book! The Zoo has teamed up with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra to help celebrate 53 years of Christmas at the Zoo! Zoo members can buy a special, low-cost, low-ticket ticket to see TSO for $ 53!
Is Indianapolis Zoo Boo free for members?
Come to the Zoo for Halloween activities, amazing animals and stone pumpkins! … Best of all, ZooBoo is free to Zoo members and included with regular access.
Are masks required at Indianapolis Zoo?
Masks are not required at the Zoo, including in indoor spaces. … Your entry includes full access to all exhibits at Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens.
What animals Can you not own Indiana?
Indiana’s laws are relatively lenient, considering that some provinces even prohibit pet ownership such as ferrets. Indiana has no laws regulating the ownership of common exotic animals, such as pet birds, domestic rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets and rodents.
Can you own any animal in Indiana? In Indiana, a person can own almost any animal as a pet, from skunks or raccoons, to foxes, cougars and even lions. All you need is the appropriate license. Licenses for most wild and exotic animals are regulated at the state level. Indiana’s rules are more lenient than most neighboring provinces.
Can I own a chimp in Indiana?
In Indiana, you can get great monkeys and apes but you must have a license for the apes. … Florida and Texas allow some types of monkeys but exclude others. These laws are evolutionary, so check your own state’s statutes if you’re considering having a monkey as a pet.
Are capuchin monkeys legal to own in Indiana?
Capuchin monkeys are in the family Cebidae, which is listed in 312 IAC 9-3-18.5 (a) (5). There are no provisions for having capuchin monkeys in the Indiana Code.
What exotic pets are legal in Indiana?
In Indiana, a person can own almost any animal as a pet, from skunks or raccoons, to foxes, cougars and even lions. All you need is the appropriate license. Licenses for most wild and exotic animals are regulated at the state level.
Can I legally own a chimpanzee?
Although quite adorable, pet chimpanzees still act like wild animals. Owning one is illegal in most parts of the United States. Some states, including Texas, Kansas, Idaho, and Alabama allow pet chimpanzees. You will probably need permission to keep a chimp.
Can I own a tiger in Indiana?
But Indiana is among 21 provinces that allow individuals to own lions, tigers and other wild felines. … Another eight states have no restrictions whatsoever on their ownership, which means that individuals can have tigers or lions or other animals without any regulations on their care or inspections of where they live.
What exotic animals can you own in Indiana?
In Indiana, a person can own almost any animal as a pet, from skunks or raccoons, to foxes, cougars and even lions. All you need is the appropriate license. Licenses for most wild and exotic animals are regulated at the state level.
What animals are illegal in Indiana?
Indiana has no laws regulating the ownership of common exotic animals, such as pet birds, domestic rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets and rodents.
Are tigers legal pets in Indiana?
A court ruling that removed Indiana’s authority over wild animals kept as pets like lions and tigers could threaten public safety by increasing the chances of dangerous animals escaping from their owners, a state legislator said Thursday.
What animals are illegal to have as pets?
According to California Code of Regulations (CCR) 671, pet ownership of the following animals is also illegal without a special license: Raccoons, skunks, alligators, lemurs, zebras, certain poisonous reptiles, prairies, wolf hybrids (wolf dogs), cats greats like bobcats, servals, and cheetahs.
Is it legal to own a duck in Alaska?
| Species | Scientific Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Duck (see notes) | No duck specified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service requires federal consent for private ownership. | |
| Family Fringillidae | Family Fringillidae | Species of non-Holarctic origin |
Can I own a fox in Alaska?
To put it simply: no, not all species of fox are legal in Alaska. Note: If a species does not appear in section (b) of regulation 5 of AAC 92.029, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game is prohibited from granting authorization authorizing anyone to possess it as a pet.
What dogs are banned in Alaska?
Alaska
- American Pit Bull and Staffordshire Terrier.
- Boston Terrier.
- Boxer.
- Brussels Griffon.
- Bull Mastiff and Terrier.
- Bulldog.
- Chow Chow.
- Pug Dutch.
Where can I interact with elephants in the US?
There are two reserves in the United States that offer elephants exceptional homes: The Performing Animal Welfare Association (PAWS) (www.pawsweb.org) in Northern California, and The Elephant Sanctuary (www.elephants.com) in Hohenwald, Tennessee .
Where can I Bath an Elephant in the US? Visitors to a guard animal in central Florida can bathe, feed, and even ride the elephants as part of an immersive educational experience. A private elephant sanctuary in central Florida offers visitors a unique hands-on experience.
Where can I pet an elephant in the US?
Pet Elephants And Feeding At Wilstem Ranch, Elephant Ranch in Indiana
- The Wilstem Ranch in Paoli is a one-of-a-kind ranch that every Hoosier should visit at least once in their lifetime. …
- That’s because the Wilstem Ranch is home to some of the most fascinating creatures on earth – elephants.
Do any zoos in the US have elephants?
But zoos in Milwaukee and Atlanta have gone in the opposite direction, expanding their elephant exhibits or building new ones. San Diego Zoo Global, the umbrella organization for the zoo and Safari Park in Escondido, maintains one of the largest elephant herds outside of its natural range.
Where in the US can you touch an elephant?
A private elephant sanctuary in central Florida offers visitors a unique hands-on experience. The Elephant Ranch allows tourists to get up close and personal with the majestic animals. The Two Tails Ranch located near Gainesville lets people feed, bathe and even ride the eight elephants that live at the ranch.
Do any zoos in the US have elephants?
But zoos in Milwaukee and Atlanta have gone in the opposite direction, expanding their elephant exhibits or building new ones. San Diego Zoo Global, the umbrella organization for the zoo and Safari Park in Escondido, maintains one of the largest elephant herds outside of its natural range.
Why don t zoos have elephants?
The problem with keeping elephants in zoos is that their needs cannot be adequately met in a captive zoo environment. … For example, zoos can’t provide enough space for elephants. Elephants are, by their nature, constantly moving stray creatures. In the wild, an elephant walks up to 9km every day.
Are there any elephants in the USA?
Although there are no longer wild elephants in North America, apothecaries â € “about the size of modern elephants and their ancestors â €” roamed the land about 13,000 years ago, which is like yesterday in geological time. …
Do any US zoos have African elephants?
The elephants are bound for the Dallas Zoo, the Sedgwick County Zoo, in Wichita, Kansas, and the Henry Doorly Zoo, in Omaha, Nebraska.
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