AMANA, Iowa –The Amana Colonies is a prime spot for bird watching, in part due to the 26,000 acres of Amana Society-owned woods and pastureland surrounding the area, as well as the refuge provided by the 170-acre Lily Lake.
Certain species of hawks, orioles and grosbeaks are just a few of the birds that live in the area year-round. Over the years, veteran Amana birder Lanny Haldy has seen 261 different bird species in the Amana Colonies.
According to Haldy, spring mornings are the perfect time to see not only permanent avian residents, but also a large number of migrating birds. Many of the birds are migrating from South America to Canada, where they will stay through the summer.
On Saturday, May 5th, during the annual Maifest celebration, and a prime time for migrating birds, Haldy will lead a bird watching expedition. The walk begins at the Lily Lake Pavilion in Amana at 8:00 a.m. and will last a little over an hour.
“You can see many different species of warblers, hawks and eagles, and a number of water birds, including ducks, swans, sandpipers, gulls, terns and pelicans,” Haldy stated.
There are many different ways to identify birds, including both visual and audible markers, Haldey explained. “Shape, flight pattern, and colors are most often used. Their calls play into it as well, although many don’t sing until nesting.”
In addition to the lilies, 201 native Iowa plants grow in and around Lily Lake. Birdwatchers may also see frogs, muskrats, snapping turtles, deer and other animals during their walk.
This is a free event. Participants should be dressed for a trail walk, and bring binoculars. Lily Lake is located just west of Amana on 220th Trail, west of Highway 151.
For more information, contact Tammara Baker, Amana Colonies Festivals Events Coordinator, at 319-622-7010 or by emailing events@amanacolonies.com.
