MUSCATATUCK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Seymour, Indiana

ANNUAL NARRATIVE REPORT

Calendar Year 1991

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE

NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM

MUSCATATUCK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Seymour, Indiana

ANNUAL NARRATIVE REPORT

Calendar Year 1991

U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service

NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE SYSTEM

REVIEW AND APPROVALS

MUSCATATUCK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Seymour, Indiana

ANNUAL NARRATIVE REPORT

Calendar Year 1991

INTRODUCTION -

Page TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. HIGHLIGHTS

B. CLIMATIC CONDITIONS

C. LAND ACQUISITION

1. Fee Title 2. Easements Nothing to report 3. Othe^ Nothing to report

D. PLANNING

1. Master Plan Nothing to report 2. Management Plan 4 3. Public Participation 4 4. Compliance with Environmental and Cultural Resources Mandates 4 5. Research and Investigation Nothing to report 6. Other Nothing to report

E. ADMINISTRATION

1. Personnel 5 2. Youth Programs 7 3. Other Manpower Programs 7 4. Volunteer Programs 8 5. Funding 9 5. Safety 9 7. Technical Assistance 9

Other 10

F. HABITAT MANAGEMENT

1. General 11 2. Wetlands 11 3. Forests 11 4. Croplands 11 5. Grasslands 12 6. Other Habitats Nothing to report 7. Grazing Nothing to report 8. Haying 12 9. Fire Management 12 10. Pest Control 12 11. Water Rights Nothing to report 12. Wilderness and Special Areas 12 13. WPA Easement Monitoring Nothing to report 14. Farmers Home Administration Conservation Easements 12 15. Private Lands 13

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G. WILDLIFE -

1. Wildlife Diversity 2. Endangered and/or Threatened Species 3. Waterfowl 4. Marsh and Water -Birds 5. Shorebirds, Gulls, Terns & Allied Species 6.- Raptors 7. Other Migratory Birds 8. Game Mammals 9. Marine Mammals Nothing to report 10. Other Resident Wildlife 11. Fisheries Resources 12. Wildlife Propagation and Stocking Nothing to report 13. Surplus Animal Disposal 14. Scientific Collections Nothing to report 15. Anixrihl Control 16. Marking and Banding 17. Disease Prevention and Control

H. PUBLIC USE

1. General 2. Outdoor Classrooms - Students 3. Outdoor Classrooms - Teachers 4. Interpretive Foot Trails 5. Interpretive Tour Routes 6. Interpretive Exhibits/Demonstrations.... 7. Other Interpretive Programs 8. Hunting 9. Fishing 10. Trapping 11. Wildlife Observation 12. Other Wildlife Oriented Recreation 13. Camping 14. Picnicking 15. Off-Road Vehicles Nothing to report 1J6. Other Non-Wildlife Oriented Recreation Nothing to report 17. Law Enforcement 18. Cooperating Associations 19. Concessions

I. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES

1. New Construction 2. Rehabilitation 3. Major Maintenance 4. Equipment Utilization and Replacement 5. Communications Systems 6. Computer Systems 7. Energy Consumption 8. Other Nothing to report

14 14 14 14 15 15 15 15

15 16

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16 16 17

18 20 20 20 20 20 21 21 2 2 22 22 22 2 2 23

23 25 25

26 26 27 27 27 27 27

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J. OTHER ITEMS

1. Cooperating Programs 2. Other Economic Uses. 3. Items of Interest... 4. Credits . . . .

Nothing to report Nothing to report Nothing to report

K. FEEDBACK

Nothing to Report

L. INFORMATION PACKET

Inside Back Cover

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INTRODUCTION

The Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge, established October 6, 1966, is located in south central Indiana midway between Indianapolis, Indiana, and Louisville, Kentucky. The refuge is just south and east of the junction of 1-65 and US 50 and is divided by the county line of Jacksoh and Jennings Counties.

The refuge name, Muscatatuck, means "Land of the Winding Waters" which historically reflects the topography of the area. Approximately 36% of the refuge lies within the annual floodplain of the Muscatatuck River-Vernon Fork which forms the southern boundary of the refuge. The topographic relief from the refuge bottomlands to gently sloping uplands ranges from 540 to 620 msl in the otherwise flat region known as the Scottsburg lowlands. Given the physiographic diversity of the area, the refuge is rich in history of early cultures.

The refuge was authorized by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission in 1966 and purchased with "Duck Stamp" money. A total of 7,724 acres were purchased. The primary objectives for the refuge are to provide migratory waterfowl with a resting/feeding area during the migration and to produce wood ducks.

To start achieving these objectives at significant levels, 1,200 acres of managed waters, i.e., lakes, moist soil impoundments and green tree impoundments were constructed with Bicentennial Land Heritage Program (BLHP) funding by the fall of 1983. An ongoing cooperative farming program of 1,000 acres provides the following diversity of corn, wheat,

, soybeans and hay to a broad spectrum of wildlife. A 3,000 acre hardwood 4 forest occurs primarily in the floodplain and on the upland slopes. An

additional 2,400 acres of land are reverting to forestlands and brushlands to compliment the habitat diversity within the Muscatatuck Refuge.

The Muscatatuck NWR Fish and Wildlife Management District includes 51 Indiana counties and 6 Ohio counties stretching from the Gary, Indiana, area to the Cincinnati, Ohio, area. The Muscatatuck NWR Private Lands Coordination Area includes 21 of these counties in the southeast part of Indiana.

INDIANA Muscatatuck NVR Fish and Wildlife Management District

Muscatatuck HVR Private Lands Coordination Area

0H/O

A. HIGHLIGHTS

-• Refuge celebrates it's 25th anniversary October 6 (H.l)

• Attention focuses on Sandy Branch drainage problem (D.4

• Refuge loses Refuge Operations Specialist (E.8)

• Barkman Bridge and West Entrance Bridge replaced (1.2)

• Turkey Trail opens (H.l)

• Lots of sandhill cranes visit in November/December (G.4)

• Operations Inspection takes place in August (E.8)

• Volksmarch is held on refuge (H.l)

• Deer hunt is quiet with small anti-hunting protest (H.8)

• Richart Lake opens to fishing National Fishing Week (H.9)

• Cooperating Association prints refuge leaflets (H.18)

• 39 geese and 317 wood ducks are banded (G.16)

• Second refuge computer arrives (1.5)

B. 1991 Climatic Data

Temperatures AVG Precipitation Totals Month Maximum Minimum NWR1 Normal2

January 36.7 21.9 2.95 3.52 February 47.4 26.9 3.14 3.02 March 55.8 33.4 5.07 4.18 April 67.0 42.3 4.04 3.75 May 80.3 58.0 4.70 4.21 June 87.1 63.4 1.66 4.21 July 89. 7 65.9 1.68 4.32 August 87.0 61.7 3. 52 2.84 September 81.0 55.1 2.24 2.81 October 69. 3 43.9 2.11 2.27 November 49.9 32.7 2.31 3.20 December 44.0 27.3 3.93 2.98

TOTALS! 66.3 44.4 37 .35 41.31 (AVG) (AVG)

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Rainfall and temperature data from the office gauge.

i Normal rainfall is from the 1941 to 1970 period.

C. LAND ACQUISITION

1. Fee Title

-Muscatatuck was authorized by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission in 1966 and was established October 6, 1966. Duck stamp funds purchased the first land tract in 1966 and by December 1972 all lands were purchased that represent the present refuge near Seymour (7,724 acres in one block). The 78 acre Restle Unit near Bloomington was donated to the refuge last year, bringing the total acres to 7,802.

D. PLANNING

2. Manaqement Plans

The Annual Water Management Plan was mailed to the Regional Office April -19, The Annual Hunting Plan was submitted in February.

3. Public Participation

A group of volunteers consisting of Bill Corning, Oscar Siefker, Dave McNabb, and Henry Horstman met with the Refuge Manager and Outdoor Recreation Planner to plan the 25th anniversity celebration. Their suggestions and ideas were very helpful.

4. Compliance with Environmental and Cultural Resource Mandates

Work continued on the Sandy Branch drainage problem this year and several meetings with local officials were held. The local drainage board believes the refuge Moss Lake dam is obstructing the flow of Sandy Branch resulting in problems to other landowners upstream. Regional Office personnel Kerschbaum, Ramsour, and Pennaz (along with refuge staff) attended a meeting at the Visitor Center May 30 conducted by Senator Lugar's aide Lane Ralph. About 20 representatives of most of the local interest groups involved attended the meeting.

Shovel-test excavations of a proposed new outlet for Sandy Branch through the refuge were done by a Department of Transportation contract archeologist and "areas to avoid" were found in the proposed route area adjacent to Moss Lake.

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E. ADMINISTRATION

Personnel

Left to Right

Lawrence Lafferty, Tractor Operator, WG-7, PFT

Larry Pagel, Maintenance Worker, WG-8, PFT

Lee Herzberger, Refuge Manager, GS-12, PFT

Roger Blasdel, Administrative Technician (OA), GS-6, PFT

Donna Stanley, Outdoor Recreation Planner, GS-9, PFT

Bob Berger, Refuge Operations Specialist, GS-11, PFT (Not Pictured)

2. Youth Programs

The 1991 Youth Conservation Corps program at Muscatatuck ran from June 10 through August 2. Five enrollees were selected (three female, two male) out of 26 male and 12 female applicants. A Social Services Aide from the local area (Sharon Richardson) was hired to serve as the YCC crew leader.

This years YCC crew spent most of their time on two labor-intensive projects, brushing the Richart Lake Dam and finishing the Handicapped Trail behind the Visitor Center. Other projects included the loading and unloading of hay, grass seeding and mulching, assisting with culvert work at the Barkman Drainage, removing an obsolete boardwalk, picking up litter, and putting up and removing gypsy moth traps. There was only one accident and it was a minor one (an enrollee received a small cut to her lip when she turned into the blade end of a shovel).

The YCC'ers spent a lot of time removing brush from Richart dam

The 1991 YCC crew was an outstanding group and a pleasure to work with (we wish we could have kept them on longer). Their crew leader also did an excellent job and continued to work for us after the YCC program had ended.

3. Other Manpower Programs

The refuge had a new Green Thumb worker arrive in April (Glenn Brooks). Until Glenn arrived we were down to one Green Thumb employee, Shirley (Hoke) Baurle. Green Thumb salaries are paid by the state and the workers do janitorial work at refuge buildings, heavy equipment work (Hoke is a certified operator), and a great deal of mowing and trimming. They make a valuable contribution to refuge operations.

Four young women working under a state O.D.C. program worked on the refuge August 5-13 under the supervision of our Sogial Services Aide. The enrollees salary was paid by the state.

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An individual working off "community service" hours under the local corrections program worked on the refuge during the year.

4. Volunteer Programs

Approximately 117 -volunteers (including youth groups) donated 2,148 hours of volunteer services to the refuge in fiscal year 1991. That -total included Green Thumb time.

Volunteers helped with an assortment of projects this year. Work done included staffing the Visitor Center, doing wood duck brood surveys and waterfowl surveys, banding geese and ducks, Christmas and May Day bird counts, giving interpretive walks to visitors, installing a bench on the Chestnut Ridge trail,doing a turkey gobble count, working in the deer check station, brushing fence, working on photo files, maintaining bluebird boxes, building lock boxes and shelves in the Visitor Center, plantitig trees, replacing siding at Myers Cabin, removing old barbed wire fence, duck banding, clearing/building hiking trails and the handicapped trail, picking up trash, helping plan and work the anniversary program, doing computer work, and doing miscellaneous work in the refuge office.

Volunteers helped replace the gable enji siding on the Myers Cabin this year

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Volunteer birdwatchers did two counts on the refuge again this year. On the "May Day" bird count on May 11 volunteers found 110 species on the refuge. Birders participating in the Christmas count on January 1, 1991 found 66 species.

A girl scout (Jennifer Emley) received her "Gold" award January 12 for clearing a hiking trail in the environmental education area the previous -fall. The loop trail (which will be known as "Turkey Trail" connects with Bird Trail and will provide visitor access to a very scenic area of the refuge.

A special tour of the closed area was given to volunteers on April 6 and letters of appreciation were sent during National Volunteer Week.

Earth Day was celebrated on the refuge April 21 when Boy Scouts and other helpers picked up litter along refuge roads and ponds.

Our second annual "Volunteer Recognition Picnic" was held July 10 at the Visitor Center. About 24 volunteers, families, and refuge staff attended the pitch in picnic and eighteen volunteers were honored for donations of various amounts of time to the refuge (three for 200 hours of service). Following the picnic and presentation of awards two short slide programs were shown (one on the bald eagle reintroduction program and one on barn owls). It was a nice evening and a good time was had by all.

Four refuge volunteers on the "25th anniversary" committee helped refuge staff plan events/programs for the October 6 celebration of the 25th anniversary. Volunteers Bill Corning, Dave McNabb, Oscar Siefker, and Henry Horstman had lots of good ideas for the program.

5. Funding

Funds for operating the refuge the last five years are shown below: The figures reflect all funds available to this station except construction funds and includes regular O&M, cyclical maintenance, ARMMS, quarters O&M, YCC and a donation.

FY87 FY88 FY89 FY90 FY91

Station Funds: $264,000 $270,000 $263,000 $315,900 $414,589

6. Safety

Refuge safety meetings were held throughout the year. YCC and Green Thumb employees attended all safety meetings scheduled when they were working. Several safety committee meetings were also held.

Three members of the refuge staff passed the Step test during the year.

Refuge staff took CPR training on March 5.

YCC employees and most of the refuge staff had Lyme tests done in June.

There were several minor accidents during the year. A YCC enrollee received a minor cut to her lip when she turned into an enrollee who was lifting a shovel. A tetanus shot was required. In October a Green Thumb enrollee received a minor cut to his finger. In May the refuge Tractor Operator suffered an apparent bad reaction to a tick bite that required medical attention.

7. Technical Assistance

Again this year the refuge staff spent a great deal of time on Farm Bill activities. See section C.4 and F.15.

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ORP Stanley served as a 4-H wildlife exhibit judge for the Ripley 6ounty Fair in July and helped judge science fair exhibits at Seymour Middle School in February. She also gave a "career day" program at Seymour Middle School in November.

ORP Stanley assisted with the Operations Inspection at Ottawa NWR the last week of April.

ORP Stanley gave a Project WILD workshop at Camp Gallihue in Brown County on April 24. She also gave a Project WILD program at an SCS teacher workshop at Starve Hollow in Jackson County on Oct. 25.

8. Other

Administrative Technician Blasdel received a special achievement award in September for his help with the administrative work in setting up the Patoka^ River Office.

Technician Blasdel was detailed to work in WAM-2 January 7-11 and also received training in WordPerfect Level 2 in January. Blasdel attended the Administrative Workshop in Minnesota November 4-8.

Manager Herzberger received fire training at Marana, Arizona, January 8-17 and along with Refuge Operations Specialist Berger took fire behavior course S-390 locally.

ROS Berger took fire courses S-215 and S-230 in January and Basic Aviation Safety training in Bloomington along with Outdoor Recreation Planner Stanley.

Refuge Officers Herzberger and Stanley attended Law Enforcement Refresher training at Camp Dodge, Iowa, in March and requalified with their revolvers locally in September. ROS Berger chose not to requalify during the refresher training.

Maintenance Worker Pagel attended the Maintenance Workshop at Crab Orchard NWR March 18-27 and Safety Officer training in California April 15-18.

ROS Berger received Technology Transfer training at Desoto NWR April 1-2 .

Tractor Operator Lafferty received pesticide training at Ft. Wayne, Indiana on April 10 and additional training in November.

ROS Berger was terminated October 10.

Social Services Aid Sharon Richardson was terminated October 18. Sharon did a fine job as our YCC crew leader and "farm bill helper" and we wished we could have kept her on longer.

Two engineers from the Regional Office inspected refuge bridges in November. The small bridge on the west entrance road near Sue Pond was condemned.

An Operations Inspection was held on the Refuge August 5-8. The inspection team consisted of Bill Hutchinson, Edie Donovan, John Ellis, Judy O'Donnell, Tom Worthington, Dave Hendricks, Chuck Suprenant, and Meredith Weltmer.

The entire refuge staff attended CPR training in Seymour in March.

ORP Stanley assisted with an Operations Inspection at Ottawa NWR the last week of April.

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F. HABITAT MANAGEMENT

1. General

Approximately 1,200 surface acres of water are manipulated in ten moist soil units, three green tree units, and three lakes on the refuge. Other habitat types include 70 ponds, approximately 1,000 acres of -croplands, 200 acres of managed grasslands, 3,000 acres of hardwood forest, and 2,400 acres of old farmland reverting to forest.

2. Wetlands

There was minor flooding in January from a 2-inch rain at the end of December. Skims of ice covered the units several times during February and M-3 was raised for invertebrate production. Moss Lake was raised on March 1 for waterfowl and M-6 was flooded with Moss Lake after sandbags were placed in a dike washout. Endicott Marsh was also raised in March and a canoe was used to raise 2 plastic pipes to convert the McDonald field into a temporary wetland.

The Moss Lake drawdown began on April 3 and the unit was at summer pool level on April 21 (2 weeks after the trees leafed out late in the first week of April). M-l and M-7 were drawn down for moist soil production in May and the McDonald wetland was drawn down for shorebird habitat at the same time. Grader Marsh was drawn down for dam maintenance on Richart Lake. Water was pumped into M-8 to raise water levels for wood duck brood habitat and moist soil development. The M-9 barrow ditch was pumped down in June and brush was cleared on 8 acres.

Richart Lake was lowered approximately 3 feet to fill M-3 in September.

Refuge waters froze briefly on November 27.

3. 1 Forests

The hardwood forests of Muscatatuck consist of approximately 3,000 acres of upland and bottomland timber. While a forest management plan has not been completed forest management objectives are anticipated to be to produce cavity trees for wood duck nesting and to produce mast for waterfowl in flood plain areas. Several old fields are currently being managed to return to bottomland hardwoods.

Green tree management occurs on 400 acres of seasonally flooded impoundments (see "wetlands" section).

4. Croplands

Croplands are managed for migrant waterfowl, greater sandhill cranes, and resident wildlife. Cropland production supports the moist soil management program in food production for migratory birds.

The refuge cropland program consists of a four-year rotation of first year corn, second year soybeans followed by winter wheat, third year clover/grass and wheat harvest, and fourth year hay. Farming is done by four cooperative farmers who generally keep 75% of the crop as their payment for the farming. Crop share ratios were adjusted on occasion to give equitable dollar benefits to the cooperators for returns on labor and investment.

The government accounting office farming survey was sent April 9. Monetary benefits to the 4 cooperative refuge farmers were estimated to $54,000 and $34,600 in grain and hay. Cooperators provided $7,500 worth of services.

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Long-time cooperative farmer A1 Fenneberg retired from farming the refuge this year. Al always did a fine job with his fields and will be missed.

Soil samples were -taken in 56 fields. Onions were sampled in 2 fields as part of the effort to reduce herbicide use on the refuge. Onions -were sprayed with Roundup in many fields before soybeans were planted. Corn was planted on 184 acres and soybeans planted on 110 acres in June. Wheat was harvested on 92 acres in June.

Many refuge agricultural units were not farmed this year.

5. Grasslands

Refuge grasslands consist mostly of cool season grasses with 15 acres of warm season grasses. Cool season grasses are Kentucky fescue and clover stands.

The 15 acres of warm season grasses consist of big bluestem, switchgrass and indian grass that has been planted around South Endicott Marsh (11 acres) and around Stanfield Lake (4 acres). The warm season grasses were planted to provide duck nesting habitat.

8. Haying

Approximately 400 acres of refuge haylands are usually managed for migratory waterfowl and sandhill cranes by cooperative farmers in a cost-sharing arrangement similar to the cropland program. Haylands can be cut after June 15 for the first cutting and by September 15 if there is a second cutting. Haylands are clipped in September to provide green browse and control weeds.

9. Fire Management

Plans were made to burn several units this year but no burning was conducted. No wildfires occurred.

Continuing fire protection for six refuge buildings was provided by the Jackson/Washington Township Volunteer Fire Department at very low cost to the refuge.

10. Pest Control

Purple loosestrife was again treated in several locations in midsummer. Johnsongrass was treated with Roundup. Onions in many agricultural units were extensively sprayed with Roundup in May.

12. Wilderness and Special Areas

The refuge has a 97 acre Acid Seep Spring Research Natural Area. No activity took place in the area this year.

14. Farmers Home Administration Conservation Easements

One-quarter mile of 5-strand barbed wire boundary fence was completed by contract on the Griffey Conservation Easement (CE) in Wayne County. A livestock watering lane was installed to allow access to water in the creek.

All boundary posting was completed on CE's except for two near Gary, Indiana.

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15. Private Lands

A mailing was made to several Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD) encouraging their participation in the SWCD Challenge Grant program. The Washington County SWCD responded and a $5,000 project was approved with 50% being funded by the Fish and Wildlife Service. The project involved restoring a 60 acre wetland with associated upland and wetland plantings and nesting structures done by the local Future Farmers of America chapter and SWCD personnel.

Jennings County Soil and Water Conservation District became very interested and active in wetland restorations. In September, they hosted a wetland workshop with the Soil Conservation Service, Indiana Department of Natural Resources and Fish and Wildlife Service. Three private wetland restorations the refuge had completed were used as examples.

In 1991, 13 wetlands totalling 19 acres were restored. All were accomplished by contract and were located in the counties of Jennings (7), Lawrence (2), Scott (2), Bartholomew (1) and Ripley.

Phil Chance Wetland Lawrence County

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G. WILDLIFE

1. Wildlife Diversity

Muscatatuck is a very diverse place and new bird species are discovered every year; we also suspect there are several species nesting here that we haven't found yet.

2. Endangered and Threatened Species

Bald eagles are infrequent visitors to the refuge. An immature bald eagle was seen on April 18 and another immature bird was observed by Richart Lake on November 25 with an orange ribbon-like streamer dangling from underneath the left wing. The marked bird was not believed to be from the Indiana hacking program. Peregrine falcons pass through the refuge area in migration and one bird was seen on May 6.

A large population of Northern copperbelly water snakes (a category #2 "unknown" species on the federal list) exists on the refuge. Henslows sparrows, a category #2 "declining" species have also nested on the refuge in past years.

3. Waterfowl

Aside from Canada geese, ducks, and coots a few tundra swans, white-fronted geese, and snow geese spent time on the refuge this year. Peak numbers of waterfowl were in late February/early March when approximately 5,250 birds were present.

a. Geese

Many migrant birds were observed wearing neck collars and several white-fronted and snow geese briefly visited the refuge. The Canada goose population peaked in late February when 1,065 birds were counted on the refuge.

Canada geese hatched out as normal in mid-May. No brood surveys were done this year for lack of time.

b. Ducks

Spring migrants began arriving the second week of February and up to 1,000 dabblers were noted in the waterfowl complex. Wood ducks began arriving the third week of February. Migrants peaked in March at about 3,400 birds (18 different species). The largest numbers of ducks present in the spring were ring-necks (1,275) and mallards (1,590). The ring-necks headed north the third week of March.

Wood duck production was estimated to be about the same as previous years and the first brood was seen April 25. Wood duck brood surveys required 48 hours in blinds to survey 7 marshes. Several broods of mallards were also seen.

4. Marsh and Water Birds

Sandhill cranes were observed on the refuge the fourth week of April. Favorite areas of cranes on the refuge are the farm fields west of the refuge shop and the waterfowl complex. While cranes are usually difficult to catch on the ground here several hundred birds spent several weeks around the shop fields in land November/early December. An extraordinary flight of sandhills was noted on November 25 when over 2,600 birds were counted flying over the refuge office between 3:30 and 5:00 p.m. Apparently most of the 32,000 cranes sitting at the Jasper-Pulaski staging area in northwestern Indiana had taken off all at once for parts south.

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Eight tundra swans (seven adults and an immature) arrived December 6 and stayed the month with us (mostly in Richart and Stanfield Lakes).

The heron rookery in Moss Lake was not believed to be active this year.

Large numbers of great egrets congregated on M-5 and M-6 during their migratory period (the marshes were low and the fishing excellent).

5. Shorebirds. Gulls, Terns, and Allied Species

Good shorebird habitat is provided in at least one moist soil unit each year and variety of birds can usually be seen.

6. Raptors

Osprey can occasionally be observed on the refuge throughout the summer but arfe not believed to nest here. Northern harriers are thought to nest on the refuge and an immature bird was seen by Sue Pond in August. Coopers hawks again nested in back of the Visitor Center and sharp-shinned hawks were observed many times. Merlins are rarely seen. Immature golden eagles were seen on February 23 and March 30. A broadwinged hawk was observed August 11.

7. Other Migratory Birds

Many sedge wrens nested in or near the Endicott Marsh prairie grass this year and Henslows sparrows were seen in the same area. Water pipets were observed in September and October. Other unusual sightings included a Lincolns sparrow and Wilsons phalarope on May 10, an olive-sided flycatcher on August 14, and immature male ruff on September 26.

Volunteer birdwatchers provide most of what we know about songbirds on the refuge and again this year volunteers did two counts for us. The "Christmas" count on January 1 noted 66 species while the "May Day" bird count on May 11 turned up 110 species.

8. Game Mammals

Cottontail rabbits are the small game mammal on the refuge and production was good again this year.

Whitetailed deer are the other game mammal we have. The history of hunter success, harvest, and sex/age data are used by the State deer biologist to estimate pre-season population levels. Because of the small size of the refuge and the movement of the herd in and out of the area Muscatatuck is difficult to population-mode. Our feeling based on visual observations is that the refuge herd is between 200 and 400 animals and that the population is near or at the desired level of 20 deer/mile.

The physical condition of the animals on the refuge is excellent and compares favorable with other areas in the state.

Deer population levels on the refuge are regulated by a primitive weapons deer hunt in December (see H.8). This year 130 archery and 20 muzzleloader permits were given out daily during the special permit (9-day) hunt. During that period 337 hunters showed up (259 archers and 78 muzzleloaders) and took 29 deer (18 does, 11 bucks). Of that total 7 deer were archery kills (a 3% hunter success rate) and 22 deer were muzzleloader kills (a 28% success rate). The overall hunter success rate was 9% and the largest deer taken was a 141 pound 8 point buck.

10. Other Resident Wildlife *

Northern bobwhite are hunted on the refuge although only a "fair" population seems to be present. Wild turkeys are doing well here

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judging by casual observations made by visitors and staff, although a turkey call count conducted by volunteers found only five turkeys. Ruffed grouse were seen once this year.

11. Fishery Resources

Self-sustaining populations of crappie, bluegill, and largemouth bass -are present in each of the refuge fishing areas. 1,250 small channel catfish were stocked in Stanfield Lake and 300 in South Persimmon Pond on October 10. Dense submerged aquatic vegetation was spot-treated in several fishing ponds in July to facilitate fishing and generally refuge fishery resources are in fine condition.

13. Surplus Animal Disposal

A number of frozen bird specimens and a large beaver were donated to the New Aibany, Indiana, school district's outdoor lab facility in January.

15. Animal Control

Domestic dogs running at large are a continuing problem and have infrequently been observed running deer. Three warnings were give to owners of hunting dogs this year when their animals were found unattended on the refuge. Cats have also been observed but not as frequently. Animals are picked up whenever possible and, if there is identification, their owners are called; other animals are taken to the local Humane Society.

16. Marking and Banding

A small drive trap was set up on June 29 at the M-5 unit and 39 giant Canada geese were banded in a largely volunteer effort. Banding activities were directed by the local State District Wildlife Biologist and state bands were put on.

Volunteers again helped a lot with our wood duck banding

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Wood ducks were banded three times in September (20th, 24th, and 27th) and 262 birds were caught. On October 3 another 55 birds were captured for a total of 317 banded. Banding took place by use of a rocket-net at the M-7 site and, as usual, refuge volunteers were a big help.

17. Disease Prevention and Control

-Disease seems to be a big factor in regulating the raccoon population on the refuge and few animals were seen again this year.

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H. PUBLIC USE

1. General

Total public use for 1991 totalled approximately 92,700 visits.

T-he most notable public use event of the year was the refuge's 25th anniversary observance and approximately 80 people braved the cold, blustery afternoon of October 5 to help the refuge celebrate at the Charles E. Scheffe Visitor Center. Speakers including Lois Scheffe, wife of the first refuge manager, Ed Wagner, one of the first employees, Gary Doxtater, Deputy Director of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, and Refuge Manager Lee Herzberger spoke of the early days of the refuge and plans for the future. Following the short program birthday cake, cider, and coffee was served and tours of the refuge were given bV refuge volunteers. Special displays were also set up in the refuge Visitor Center and entries/winners of the Muscatatuck Photography Club refuge photo contest were on exhibit (the club had sponsored the contest in honor of the anniversary). The anniversary program had been planned by a committee of volunteers that had a series of meetings over a period of months prior to the event. Refuge volunteers staffed the event and the refuge cooperating association, the Muscatatuck Wildlife Society, contributed funds for anniversary stickers and food.

25th Anniversary Cake (Donated by volunteers Bill and Barbara Corning)

168 people attended a "Volksmarch" held on the refuge September 8 in honor of the refuge 25th anniversary. The event, a family-oriented 6.2 mile walk for fun and physical fitness, was sponsored by the Columbus Volksmarching Club.

The cooperating association had a successful year and funded two refuge publications (see Section H.18).

#

A demonstration by a few anti-hunters held on the refuge December 7 caused no disruptions to refuge operations (see Section H.8).

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Lois Scheffe, Manager Herzberger and Barbara Corning cut the anniversary cake

The Visitor Center continued to be used as a meeting place this year and groups using the facility included the Department of Natural Resources, the Indiana State Police, the Muscatatuck Nature Photography Club and the Muscatatuck Wildlife Society.

Richart Lake was opened to fishing during National Fishing Week (June 3-9) and for a period around National Hunting and Fishing Day (September 21-0ctober 5). Approximately 1,000 anglers (including several handicapped individuals) took advantage of the high-quality fishing opportunities and made some fine catches.

There was a wedding on the Visitor Center grounds July 29.

A "Raptors of Indiana" leaflet funded with non-game funds was received from the Government Printing Office printer in September.

A new 1.1 mile hiking trail, "Turkey" Trail, that had been cleared by a Girl Scout working on her "Gold" project, opened for business October 6 (for the refuge anniversary).

19

Manager Herzberger looks over the "Anniversary" photo contest entries

2. Outdoor Classrooms - Students

Approximately 338 students participated in teacher-led activities on the refuge during the year that involved using refuge equipment or the Visitor Center auditorium. Numerous other groups, i.e., area biology classes and college groups, utilized the refuge on their own with our only involvement with them being a refuge orientation program (these groups are not counted in this category).

3. Outdoor Classrooms - Teachers

The refuge ORP gave two Project WILD workshops this year. One was held at the Visitor Center on March 23 and one at Camp Gallihue in Brown County on April 24. Project WILD activities were also presented at an SCS teacher workshop at Starve Hollow Lake on Oct. 25.

4. Interpretive Foot Trails

Approximately 3,650 visits were recorded for the wheelchair accessible Chestnut Ridge interpretive trail this year.

5. Interpretive Tour Route

Approximately 3,230 visits were recorded for the self-guided auto tour route this year. The approximately three-mile route has 12 stops and is explained by a leaflet available at the Visitor Center kiosk.

6. Interpretive Exhibits/Demonstrations

Unmanned refuge/FWS exhibits were put up at the Indiana Natural Areas Conference in Corydon May 18 and at the Indiana State Fair Aug. 13-26. Special exhibits were also set up in the Visitor Center for National

20

Downing tabletop exhibit purchased with nongame funds

•

Hunting and Fishing Day and for the anniversary program. A Downing tabletop exhibit was received in July for use as a nongame exhibit.

7. Other Interpretive Programs

Thirty-five on-refuge and nineteen off-refuge programs were given during } the year. Volunteers from the Muscatatuck Wildlife Society also

conducted a "Members Day" program at the Visitor Center June 1 that featured programs on bluebird house construction and the creation of backyard wildlife habitats.

8. Hunting

Approximately 410 visits were recorded for rabbit and quail hunting this year (a large increase over the last year).

Again this year on the first day of the special-permit deer hunt, December 7, there was a peaceful demonstration by a small group of anti-hunters outside the main refuge entrance gate. This year the group consisted of a local high school teacher representing the Fund for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and two of his students. Special Agent Larry Harris was again in attendance and explained the regulations to the teacher who had been rumored would send his students into the woods to disrupt hunting. To counter the anti-hunters' activities members of the Indiana Bowhunters Association also demonstrated outside the gate. Both groups were confined by their permits to the grass on either side of the entrance road and no problems were encountered.

The 1991 special-permit deer hunt was the quietest anyone could remember. During the nine-day hunt for archery and muzzleloader hunters (December 7-15) 337 hunters checked 29 deer through the refuge office check station. Archery deer hunting continued on the refuge through December 31 and many more hunters showed up and killed at least ten more deer for a total of 39. The total kill and hunter success rate were

21

Our "anti-hunting" demonstration this year was a local teacher and 2 students

down from last year. ' We believe that we need to maintain our deer harvest at a low level (most special permits this year were for archery) while continuing to provide quality hunting opportunities.

9. Fishing

Approximately 29,500 fishing visits were recorded in 1991. Thick submerged aquatic vegetation that had just about eliminated bank fishing in previous years was spot-treated in July on Lake Sheryl, Lake Linda, and Persimmon Pond. Richart Lake was opened to fishing during National Fishing Week (June 3-9) and for a period around National Hunting and Fishing Day (September 21-October 5). Approximately 1,000 anglers (including several handicapped individuals) took advantage of the high-quality fishing opportunities and made some fine catches. There was no ice fishing this year.

10. Trapping

No trapping took place on the refuge this year as trapping bids were not solicited.

11. Wildlife Observation

Approximately 52,400 visits were recorded in the wildlife observation category in 1991. Refuge roads and trails make fine vantage points for wildlife observation and visitation in this category is slowly increasing.

12. Other Wildlife-Oriented Recreation

This activity consists primarily of wild-food harvesting and other legal gathering activities like mushroom hunting and antler collecting (mushroom hunters make up most of this group). We'are also getting some people who walk/jog for exercise and ride horses/bicycles on the refuge.

22

13. Camping

The only camping that is permitted on the refuge is youth group camping in the totally primitive "Scout Camping Area". Several boy scout troops scheduled use of the area during the year but canceled due to bad weather. The area was used as a cookout/educational site by several troops.

14. Picnicking

All picnicking on the refuge is incidental to other wildlife-oriented activities and no facilities are provided outside of the "Scout Camping Area".

17. Law Enforcement

During* 1991 the following citations/warnings were documented by refuge officers:

Citations Warnings

Fishing in closed area 0 26 Trespass after hours 11 7 Trespass closed area 2 0 Off-road vehicle trespass 0 1 Hunting closed area 5 0 Weapons violations 3 2 Animal trespass (dogs) 0 3 Illegal tree steps (penetrating) 0 1 No drivers license in possession 0 1 Deer retrieval from a closed area 0 1 Spotlighting deer 0 1

Total 21 43

Federal prosecuting Attorney Scott Newmann visited the refuge with Special Agent Harris in January to confer with refuge staff on a timber theft case. The subject involved had removed walnut trees from the refuge and many other locations in south-central Indiana. Just before the federal case was to go to trial in January the subject plead guilty to a felony count of theft of government property (two walnut trees). Just before the subject was to be sentenced in March he jumped bail and disappeared and was still at large as the year ended.

Vandalism and theft increased on the refuge this year. A fire extinguisher was stolen from the Visitor Center early in February and a great horned owl mount was taken late in the month. There was a suspect in the theft of the mount. Unknown individuals also drove around the (closed) main entrance gate many times during the year. Someone put stoplogs back in the Moss Lake structure for us in April and cut the lock off the main gate circuit breaker box the same evening.

An unattended tackle box was stolen from Richart Lake during National Fishing Week in June. A window was broken on the Hackman Overlook structure with a liquor bottle in early July and another window was broken in November. A tire was stolen out of a pickup truck parked at the Stanfield Lake boat ramp late in July.

A YCC enrollee who was late for work hit a barricade on the Richart Lake dam on July breaking two cross-pieces and denting his vehicle. There were no injuries.

Refuge Officers Herzberger and Stanley took a helicopter flight over the refuge on September 11 to look for marijuana with Air National Guard personnel. Nothing was found on the refuge. A State Conservation

23

Officer also went on the flight and, after the chopper left the refuge, 70 plants were found at a location east of the refuge in Jennings County. Arrests were made. The helicopter flight was arranged by Special Agent Harris and we hope to continue this every year.

Someone deliberately ran down two large refuge signs on August 17 demolishing the signs' framework. A hiking trail sign was stolen from -the Richart Parking Lot in November. A deer hunter that left his tree stand and coveralls just for a few minutes to eat lunch in December had both stolen while he was gone.

Problems with illegal walk-in deer hunters were worse than in previous years and reports were received about illegal hunting activities along the eastern, southwestern, and northern boundaries. Hunters were reported to be out during daylight hours with bows and/or shotguns many times in November but no apprehensions were made. State Officers gave many Warnings for spotlighting (without weapons) along our east boundary and refuge officers were called out several times to pursue spotlighters that had already gone. One neighbor did get a license number on one occasion and the vehicle came back registered to a recent YCC enrollee (a warning letter was sent).

It looked suspicious - dead on December in a area closed to hunting. The rack scored 155 points - Boone & Crocket

A State Conservation Officer discovered two subjects trespassing on the refuge after hours in possession of a small quantity of marijuana during deer season. Several deer were found during the special permit hunt that had been shot in areas closed to hunting sometime before the legal hunt started. A possible record buck was found dead on December 31 north of the refuge office in a refuge area closed to hunting. Two men who said they were looking for a doe they had just shot (and did not know the area was closed to hunting) had been encountered in the area the evening before.

24

<

For several years we had been getting tips about deer hunters bowhunting the refuge closed area and this year we finally caught someone. An informants tip paid off for Refuge Officer Stanley on December 19 when two subjects were apprehended entering the closed area with bows in the early morning hours.

-18. Cooperating Associations

The refuge cooperating association, the Muscatatuck Wildlife Society, had a good year. The Society runs a bookstore located in the Visitor Center and is a membership organization that has activities from time to time (members get 10% discount at the bookstore). During the year the Society cost-shared on the printing of a "general" brochure on the refuge that has been placed at area motels/restaurants. In October the group printed a "Gift Catalogue" for the refuge that was designed to be sent tb contributed funds/staff for the refuge 25th anniversary celebration and held a "Members Day" program at the Visitor Center in June.

The Wildlife Society grossed approximately $1,985 from bookstore operations by the end of the fiscal year and most of that was converted to inventory. The society membership increased to around 90 members and volunteers from the society helped with many refuge projects.

c

25

I. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES

1. New Construction

A large entrance sign was mounted and installed at the Restle Unit (near Bloomington) in December.

-2. Rehabilitation

The "Blue Star Memorial Highway" sign was remounted by refuge staff and replaced along Route 50 in June. There was a lot of local interest in getting this sign replaced.

A contractor sealed concrete discharge conduits that had separated in the Richart and Stanfield Lake dams in July per a Denver Engineering dam inspection report.

A gutter and downspouts were installed at the Visitor Center in an effort to keep water out of the heating vents. The project was successful. The Visitor Center office door was replaced in March and new (handicapped-accessible) handles were put on the rest room doors in October. A new timer was installed for the magnetic Visitor Center door lock in June.

The office thermostat was replaced in March. A new roof, guttering and downspouts, and garage door were installed in September and the windows were reglazed. A new aluminum flag pole was also installed in front of the office. All were part of an office "facelift" for the refuge's silver anniversary celebration.

The shop rest room for women was painted, storage supplies removed, and a partition installed.

A small culvert at the Barkman Cemetery parking lot was replaced in April.

Grounding work was done on the front entrance gate and for the office phone system in an attempt to reduce lighting damage (it seemed that every passing thunderstorm killed the phone system).

Approximately $6,000 of badly needed road gravel was placed on refuge roads in September.

The long put-off Barkman Bridge drainage project was finally completed in July when the old bridge on County Line Road was torn out and two new culverts installed. The purpose of the work was to replace the 8-ton limit bridge, which restricted travel by buses, trucks and heavy equipment, and to correct soil erosion problems associated with the old bridge.The road had to be closed only one week to complete the project.

A contractor rebuilt a break in the Grader Marsh dike and reworked the M-4 dike along Mutton Creek in November.

Maintenance staff removed a small bridge on the west entrance road in December and replaced it with temporary culverts. Consultant engineers had determined the bridge was unsafe and had to be closed immediately. Bridge replacement funds should be available in FY 93 to replace the temporary culverts with a permanent bridge.

Personnel from the Bloomington Wildlife Enhancement Office took water samples from wells close to the refuge shop to test for the presence of gasoline in July. Leaking underground tanks had been removed from the area the previous year. The results came back negative in August and the occupant of Quarters 212 could finally stop hauling-in drinking water.

26

3. Major Maintenance

Road maintenance was done throughout the year and mowing took considerable time in the summer months.

4. Equipment Utilization and Replacement

-Equipment maintenance was a constant headache during the year.

The fire fighting pumper was modified during the year when a water pressure gauge, shutoff switches and lights were installed on an instrument panel. Lights were also installed.

The snowco trailer had taillights replaced, was sandblasted and painted, had new tires put on, and wheel bearings and seals replaced.

Startets on the Ramcharger and crewcab were replaced. The Honda 4-Trac had the front end and carburetor overhauled, the brake cables replaced, and new tires put on. Contract work was done on the dozer and backhoe. The emergency brake on the CMC truck was replaced along with the backhoe extend-a-hoe cylinder. Three new tires were put on the 302 tractor. The Honda trailer bed was rebuilt. The 850 tractor gear box and PTO were repaired. Mott mower knives were replaced.

5. Telephone System

An FTS line was installed in March. The regular telephone system was out of service for half of May when lighting damaged the system. The phone system was frequently hit by lighting this year and better grounding was again sought.

6. Computer System

Muscatatuck's second computer, an IBM AT, became operational in November with the installation of WordPerfect software and a box that permits the use of our two existing printers. The computer was given to us by the Ottawa NWR and allowed the refuge Outdoor Recreation Planner to get her files out of the crowded IBM Model 60.

7. Energy Consumption

The following table shows the energy use comparisons for calendar years 1989, 1990 and 1991:

1989 1990 1991

Electricity 48,003 KWH 50,956 KWH 59,518 KWH Gasoline 2,852 GAL 2,466 GAL 3,217 GAL Diesel 1,995 GAL 2,456 GAL 1,829 GAL Mileage 31,883 MI 40,650 MI 40,252 MI Propane 752 GAL 711 GAL 891 GAL

8. Other

A new four-wheel drive Suzaki ATV and straw blower were received in September.

Ten new gates were received from Mingo Job Corps during the year.

Surplus property including a 4" pump, aluminum pipes, a Skilsaw, and a 10 cubic foot freezer were transferred to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources in March

A VCR and monitor were purchased in December. »

27

J. OTHER ITEMS

4. Credits

Manager Herzberger wrote the Introduction, sections C.l, C.4 and edited the entire report.

Outdoor Recreation Planner Stanley wrote A, B, D.2, D.4, D.5, E.2-4, E.6-8, F.1-10, F.12, G.l-8, G.10-11, G.13, G.15-17, H and I.

Administrative Technician Blasdel wrote sections E.l, E.5, 1.7, J.4, compiled the sections and proofread the report.

Photographs were taken by Manager Herzberger, Outdoor Recreation Planner Stanley and Tractor Operator Lafferty.

K. FEEDBACK

(Nothing to Report)

L. INFORMATION PACKET

(Inside Back Cover)

28

Leper t T R O r g a r l i a t l o c Ks»e ^ e r l o d Code

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*+ 0 0 ' 1 0 0 0 ; R WT \

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VISITS TO REFUGE 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 P V 92.701

6 WILDLIFE INFORMATION •iii Pert$er.;

Public Inquiries 5 0 1 0 0 0 0 F P I'pfp

Nevs Releases 5 0 2 0 0 0 0 F N 7

Personal Appearances S 0 3 0 0 0 0 F A 19

Professional Services 5 0 4 0 0 0 0 F S £7

Exhibits 5 0 5 0 0 0 0 F E 9

CDN.rOL TT7T.ALS Q 9 7 Q Q n R I 1

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GIFTS FOR MUSCATATUCKS' WILDLIFE

This Gifts Catalogue is for people and organizations who care about wildlife. By making a donation you can help build and support the Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge.

MUSCATATUCK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE RETURNS ON YOUR INVESTMENT

Muscatatuck is a 7,724-acre national wildlife refuge managed

by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and is located in south-

central Indiana. The wetlands, woods, and fields of the refuge

are managed as a nesting area for wood ducks and as habitat

for waterfowl and migratory birds. Many kinds of wildlife

benefit from refuge management practices and white-tailed

deer, muskrat, beaver, raccoon, and squirrels

are common. Visitors may pursue many types

of wildlife-oriented recreation on Muscatatuck

and find many opportunities to learn about

wildlife.

PURPOSES FOR DONATIONS

LOCATION MAP TO INDIANAPOLIS

Public budgets frequently cannot stretch to

provide the wildlife habitat, facilities, and ser­

vices to the public, that the refuge would like

to provide. Your donation can make the refuge a better place

for wildlife and people.

As wetlands are lost to development in Indiana waterfowl

and many kinds of wetland-dependent wildlife have fewer

places to live. People have fewer opportunities to learn about

wildlife in a natural environment. By making a donation you

have the satisfaction of knowing that you have contributed to

improving a valuable wildlife resource that will be here for

many generations to enjoy and learn from.

All donations to the refuge (other than per­

sonal services) and to the Muscatatuck Wild­

life Society are tax deductible charitable con­

tributions.

RECOGNITION

All donors will receive a letter of appreciation

acknowledging your gift and its value which

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service also has a Challenge Grant

Program in which your donation may be matched on a 50/50

basis (as funds permit) to provide funding for expensive

refuge projects. Any of the projects on the following pages can be submitted as Challenge Grants (give the Refuge Manager a call before hand). /'

TO LOUISVILLE

(NOT TO SCALE)

can be used for tax purposes. Gifts over $500 will be recog­

nized with a framed photograph of the refuge. The generosity

of corporations, small businesses, service organizations, or

foundations will be gladly recognized by news releases, cer­

tificates, or other appropriate media. Requests for anonymity

will also be honored.

GIFT IDEAS FOR MUSCATATUCKS* WILDLIFE LEND A VOLUNTEER HAND

V

You can help Muscatatuck's wildlife by helping refuge staff take care of the refuge. Volunteer jobs are almost unlimited; you can help with tree planting, work on hiking trails, assist with bird surveys and banding projects, clean up old farm junk piles and barbed wire fence, or help restore a pioneer log cabin. If you think you might like to volunteer some time at Muscatatuck contact the volunteer coordinator at the refuge office.

HELP BUILD WILDLIFE HABITAT

Building wildlife habitat on a national wildlife refuge is expensive. Dike building and repair requires extensive time by a skilled operator on heavy equipment. If you are in the earthmoving business and could give us a hand in our construction work your help would be GREATLY appreci­ated!

Other items we need are:

Flap gates for moist soil units—$600

Tree screen for crane unit—$1,000'

Wood duck banding blind—$600

A 24" screwgate for unit M-7—$1,300

Grass seed and fertilizer—$1,000 I

HELP SUPPORT REFUGE OPERATIONS

• Join our cooperating association (the Muscatatuck Wild­life Society).

• Provide spotting scopes for wildlife surveys—$300 each.

• Buy binoculars for surveys—$50 each.

• Provide a ramp to make the office handicap accessible— $2,000.

• Donate a portable radio for use by refuge staff—$800.

• Provide a camera to photograph refuge operations— $300.

• Donate a computer for the office/Visitor Center—$2,000 each.

• Provide trash barrels/lids—$55 each.

• Provide road gravel—$200 per large truckload.

• Donate a house trailer for volunteer staff housing (used trailer is fine).

• Provide a small gas chain saw for refuge volunteers to use while clearing trails—$225.

HELP IMPROVE VISITOR FACILITIES

* Provide a portable tabletop exhibit for the refuge to take to fairs, conferences, etc.—$600. v

* Provide cassette players for Visitor Center use—$50 each.

* Donate a permanent historical exhibit panel for Myers Cabin (an old log cabin located on the refuge)—$400 each.

i

* Provide some shade trees for the Sandhill Fishing Pond— $75 each.

* Donate a video player/monitor for the Visitor Center— $1,000.

* Purchase a bench for the Chestnut Ridge Trail—$300 each.

* Donate printing of a refuge leaflet—$400 for 2,500 copies.

* Help control aquatic weeds in the bank fishing areas— $2,000 per year.

HOW TO DONATE

Please list below which activity in this gifts catalogue you would like to support with your donation.

ACTIVITY GIFT

ACTIVITY GIFT

ACTIVITY GIFT

If you just want to make a general donation that is also appreciated!

Check here ( ) Amount

The Muscatatuck Wildlife Society is the non-profit support group for the refuge and will make sure that your donation goes for its intended purpose.

ALSO if you would like to donate an item or construction services please contact the Refuge Manager at (812) 522-4352 to make the necessary arrangements.

Checks should be made payable to: MUSCATATUCK WILDLIFE SOCIETY

and mailed along with this brochure to: MUSCATATUCK WILDLIFE SOCIETY

P.O. Box 673 Seymour, IN 47274

YOUR NAME

ORGANIZATION

ADDRESS

PHONE #

SIGNATURE

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!

Muscatatuck Wildlife Society P.O. Box 673 Seymour, IN 47274

This brochure is paid for by the Muscatatuck Wildlife Society (No government funds have been used.)

-

RAPTOR of Indiana

Raptors Hawks, owls, and vultures are often called raptors or birds of prey because their food consists mostly of other animals. Each kind of hawk, owl, and vulture has its own special place in the environment. Raptors normally eat only certain kinds of animals and live only in certain kinds of habitat.

Raptors face many problems. Many of them are "endangered" (at risk of extinction), "threatened" (declining in numbers but not yet at risk of extinction), or "of special concern" (appear to have low numbers but their exact status is unknown) in Indiana. Like many birds, raptors suffer from habitat loss as the woods and meadows they use for feeding and nesting areas are cut down and developed. Collisions with automo­biles claim many raptors since the short grass around roads is a good place for raptors to find mice and voles. Missteps on power lines can cause electrocution and some birds are accidently poisoned when they catch pigeons or mice that have fed on poisoned grain. Although not as big a problem as it once was, some raptors are still shot because they are considered destructive, while others are used for target practice by vandals with guns.

Healthy birds of prey are not normally a threat to livestock but occasionally birds like the red-tailed hawk or great horned owl will take chickens if the taking is easy (roofed chicken coops will prevent this). Hawks and owls eat a tremendous amount of ro­dents and it is a lucky farmer who has a hawk or owl living near his grain bin. All raptors are protected by federal and state laws but anyone having a problem with a bird can get relief by contacting their local Conservation Officer through the local sheriffs office. Injured or dead raptors should also be reported to the local Conserva-

. tion Officer and if the bird is still alive the officer will take it to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for care.

Hawks & Hawk-Like Raptors Hawks are raptors that are active during the day. Their strong curved beaks and sharp talons are used to kill their prey. Sexes are similar in appearance in most species but female birds are larger than the males. A few hawks just visit Indiana in the winter but most are year-round residents (unless otherwise noted the described birds are present:year-round and distributed throughout the state). The many different groups of hawk-like birds include accipiters, buteos, osprey, harriers, eagles, falcons, and vultures.

Falcons Falcons are open country hawks that are often seen perched w on wires and fences. They are fas! fliers and frequently knock their prey out of the sky. Falcons appear to have "side­burns" and have deeply hooked beaks.

American ^ Kestrel

The AMERICAN KESTREL is our most common falcon and is also known as the sparrow hawk. It is often seen perched on wires and hovering over fields. A kestrel is about the size of a robin and is brightly colored. Kestrels eat a variety of prey including mice, small birds, grasshoppers, and beetles. Kestrels usually nest in cavities and may use large nest boxes.

Merlin The MERLIN is called the pigeon hawk and is an uncommon visitor to Indiana. Merlins are about the size of a blue jay and eat birds, mice, and insects. They are found in a variety of habitats including open wood­lands and wooded prairies.

Peregrine Falcon The PEREGRINE FALCON is known as the duck hawk and is almost as big as a crow. Birds are its main diet. The peregrine is federally endangered largelybecause of pesti­cide poisoning (the birds took in pesticide through the birds they ate and the poison concentrated to a point wher^it interfered with the birds' reproduction). Peregrines are uncommon migrants and rare nesters in Indiana and have been reintroduced to the Indianapolis area. Their natural nesting sites are cliffs and rock outcroppings and in some areas peregrines have adapted to nest on the tops of city buildings and bridges.

Eagles

Bald Eagle

The BALD EAGLE, our national symbol, is classified as a federally endangered species but is recover­ing after being hurt badly by pesti­cides. These birds are once again nesting in Indiana due to a reintroductfon program in the Lake Monroe area but are most often seen here in the winter. Bald eagles eat primarily fish and are 30-43 inches in length. Young birds do not get the white head and tail until they are about 5 years old and are often mistaken for other raptors.

Golden Eagle GOLDEN EAGLES are rare visitors to Indiana and are usually seen in open^ areas where they hunt for small and medium sized mammals. These birds are 30-40 inches long and the back of the head is gold-colored. Young bald eagles are often mistaken for golden eagles. Golden eagles are another raptor that has feathers that extend to the toes.

Accipiters Accipiters are woodland hawks that often fly low through H trees and brush. They are shy, nervous birds and are seldom seen. The sharp-shinned hawk and Cooper's hawk are species of special concern in Indiana and are rare throughout the state

Sharp-Shinned Hawk The SHARP-SHINNED HAWK is only 10-14 inches long (not much bigger than a robin) and feeds mostly on small birds. It will sometimes take birds feeding at bird feeders and often tackles birds far bigger than itself.

Cooper's Hawk The COOPER'S HAWK is a larger version of the sharp-shinned hawk and is 14-21 inches long. It eats birds and small mammals and males are very hard to distinguish from a female

^ sharp-shinned hawk.

Northern Goshawk The NORTHERN GOSHAWK is a bird of the north country and is an unusual winter visitor to Indiana. It is 19-27 inches long and eats rabbits, grouse, squirrels, and rodents.

Buteos Buteos are large hawks and often perch on telephone poles, the outer m limbs of trees, and on fence posts. Buteos are found mostly where woodlands border open fields and are often seen soaring. Two buteos, the broad-winged hawk and the red-shoul-derec^hawk, are species of special concern in Indiana and are rare summer residents throughout the state.

Red-Shouldered Hawk The RED-SHOULDERED HAWK is a large bird (17-24 inches in length) of wet woodlands. It eats insects, crayfish, frogs, snakes, small birds, and small mammals. This hawk has declined nationally and is a species of special concern.

Rough-Legged Hawk The ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK visits Indiana only in winter and is usually seen in open areas where it often hovers over likely looking mouse meadows. It is a large bird (19-24 inches long) and is one of two raptors with feathers that

V^extend all the way to the toes.

Red-Tailed Hawk The RED-TAILED HAWK is probably our most common hawk in Indiana. It is large (19-25 inches long) and eats mostly rodents although it sometimes takes prey as big as a rabbit or pheasant.

Broad-Winged Hawk The BROAD-WINGED HAWK is the smallest of the buteos at 13-19 inches in length. It lives in the woods and often hunts from a low perch where it takes frogs, snakes, small birds, and mammals.

OSPREY are endangered in Indiana and have recently started nesting in the eastern part of the state again. They are uncommon migrants throughout Indiana. Habitat loss and pesticides were the osprey's problem but the species is now thriving in many states. Ospreys eat fish. Ospreys are 21 -26 inches long and are often mistaken for the much larger bald eagle.

Osprey

The NORTHERN HARRIER, often called the marsh hawk, is a state endangered species and is of special concern nation­ally. The loss and degradation of wetlands and adjacent grasslands, which this spe­cies needs as nesting and feeding habitat, has led to its decline. In most parts of the state, harriers are only winter visitors and are usually seen flying close to the ground over marshes and open grassland. These birds are 16-24 inches in length, have an owl-like face, and eat mostly mice and voles.

Northern Harrier

Owls of Indiana Owls are active mainly at night although some, like the short-eared and the barred, can sometimes be seen during dark days or around sunrise or sunset. Normally owls sleep during the day in dark woods, tree cavities, or brush. The excellent eyesight, keen hearing, strong beaks, and sharp talons of owls combined with their totally silent flight make them very efficient hunters who rarely miss a strike. As with hawks, sexes are similar in appearance but females are larger than males.

Like hawks, owls eat mostly mice, voles, and birds, although some, like the great horned owl, will take prey up to the size of skunks. Owls often swallow their prey whole and regurgitate the fur, bones, and non-digestible parts of their food as com­pact pellets.

Great Horned Owl

The GREAT HORNED OWL is our largest and most common owl-in Indiana and prefers to live in up­land woods. It is 18-25 inches long. Great horned owls eat a varied diet including mice, rabbits, birds, and occasionally even skunks. The great horned owl makes a barking call—"who whoo-oo-whooo".

Eastern Screech Owl The EASTERN SCREECH OWL is a small, common owl that often lives near people in small towns and orchards. Screech owls are 7-10 inches long and come in two color phases, gray and red. These birds eat mostly mice and insects and are usually seen near short-grass areas that have large, cavity-ridden trees nearby. The screech owl has a "whining" or "quavering" call.

' ISu-

Barred Owl

The BARRED OWL is a bird of the wet woods and often shares habitat with the red-shouldered hawk. Barred owls are 16-24 inches long and eat crayfish, insects, small mammals, fish, and small birds. The barred owl repeats a phrase— "who cooks for you".

Northern Saw-Whet Owl The NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL is a resident of northern Indiana and a winter visitor further south. It is the smallest owl found here (7-9 inches long). The favorite habitat of the saw-whet is pine woods, where it often roosts low in trees. Saw-whets eat shrews, mice, insects, and small birds. The saw-whet owl makes a sound like someone sharpening a saw blade.

Vultures Vultures (buzzards) are birds of prey that are in a class by themselves. They are not equipped to kill their own food so they eat the remains of dead animals.

Turkey Vultures TURKEY VULTURES are common in the south­

ern two-thirds of Indiana and rare further north. They are 24-30 inches long and have a small, feath-erless red head. Turkey vultures are often seen circling over woods and fields and roost in groups in woodlands.

Black Vultures BLACK VULTURES are most common in southern Indiana and casual visitors to other areas. They prefer to roost in rocky woodlands and are often seen in mixed flocks with turkey vultures. Black vultures are 23-27 inches long and have gray, featherless heads.

Bam Owl

The BARN OWE is a state endan­gered species and is of special con­cern nationally because of loss of habitat. It is known as the monkey-faced owl and is 16-24 inches long. Barn owls eat mostly mice and voles and prefer to hunt in open grassland areas around old barns, silos, and cavity tress that can be used for nest sites. In many parts of the state, the Department of Natural Resources has erected nest boxes for the birds. The barn owl is usually silent but some­times makes a screech or screaming call.

Short-Eared Owl

The SHORT-EARED OWL lives year-round in southwestern Indiana and is a winter visitor in most of the state. Unlike other owls, the short-eared owl may often be seen during the day. This owl is 13-17 inches long and eats mice, voles, shrews, birds, and grasshoppers. Short-eared owls hunt much like northern harriers, flying low over grasslands and marshes. The short-eared owl has a short, explo­sive barking call.

Long- Eared Owl The LONG-EARED OWL is a rarely-seen resident of Indiana. It is 13-16 inches in length and spends most of its time near or in pines. Long-eared owls eat mostly mice and shrews but also take small birds. The call is a high-pitched "wook wook wook".

Snowy Owl

The SNOWY OWL is a rare winter visitor to Indiana that spends most of its time in the arctic tundra. These large (20-30 inches long) white birds are usually seen perched on fence posts or poles in open country during the day. Snowy owls eat mice, rabbits, muskrats, and birds up to the size of ducks.

PLEASE HELP

CONSERVE

BIRDS OF PREY

Report any problems with raptors or injured/dead birds to your local Conser­vation Officer or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office. Please don't try to han­dle birds yourself since their sharp tal­ons can be dangerous. Indiana Conser­vation Officers are trained to deal with raptors and to resolve wildlife prob­lems.

You can help birds of prey by preserving nest sites on your land, not disturbing nests, and by reducing your use of pes­ticides that might harm the birds by poisoning their prey. You can also be alert for birds feeding along the road to reduce road-kills.

SPREAD THE WORD—birds of prey are protected by federal and state laws and harming a raptor can result in se­vere penalties.

REPORT VIOLATIONS ANONYMOUSLY Call Toll-Free 1-800-TIP-IDNR

Special thanks to; Illinois Dept. of Conservation Division of Natural Heritage

for the use of their artwork and design and

Nitza Retsmas for the cover art.

Dept. of the Interior

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

r

MUSCATATUCK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

INDIANA

Refuge Wildlife

Wildlife is abundant at Muscatatuck and many kinds can usually be seen by refuge visitors. The marshes of Muscatatuck pro­vide seasonal sanctuary to several animals uncommon to Indiana including the least bit­tern, yellow-crowned night heron, and northern copper-belly snake.

Birds seem to attract the most interest at Muscatatuck and more than 250 different species have been observed on the refuge

flocks of sandhill cranes, ospreys, and per­haps a bald eagle or two.

Other species of wildlife common to the ref­uge throughout the year are white-tailed deer, muskrat, beaver, rabbit, quail, raccoon, and turkey. A few ruffed grouse are also present.

Wildlife Management Wildlife management involves both habitat and people management. Water is the impor-

with the number increasing each year. The greatest number of waterfowl visit the refuge during the spring and fall migration periods and as many as 15,000 ducks and geese are present on the refuge in March. Wood ducks, great blifle herons, and Canada geese are common nesting species and may be seen throughout the summer months. The fall migration usually brings in a few transient

tant element for wildlife management at Muscatatuck and most management activi­ties involve water level manipulation. Refuge moist soil units are diked bottomland areas that are flooded with shallow water in the fall to provide waterfowl feeding areas. The units are drained in late spring to permit naturally-occuring vegetation to grow in the moist soils. Green tree reservoirs, diked bottom-

MUSCATATUCK National Wildlife Refuge

It was the Plankeshaw Indians who named the narrow, meandering river "Muscata­tuck". The river today forms the southern boundary of Indiana's only national wildlife refuge. The marshes, lakes, forests, and meadows of the southern Indiana refuge pro­vide a haven for wildlife in a region better known for cornfields and small farms.

Land acquisition for the Muscatatuck Na­tional Wildlife Refuge began in 1966 with money obtained from the sale of federal "duck stamps". The refuge today contains approximately 3,000 acres of forest, 1,300 acres of permanent or seasonal water, 1,000 acres of grasslands/crop fields, and 2,400 acres of old farm fields reverting to forest. Refuge objectives are to provide habitat for migratory waterfowl and endangered species and nesting areas for wood ducks — birds that were once critically low in numbers.

Muscatatuck is one of nearly 430 national wildlife refuges in the United States. Nation­al wildlife refuges form a network of lands and waters managed specifically for wildlife. Wildlife-oriented recreational opportunities are also provided on refuges whenever compatable with refuge resources.

land forest areas with large cavity-ridden trees, are seasonally flooded and drained like the moist soil units. The abundant food supply and available nesting cavities in the green tree reservoirs make attractive feeding and nesting areas for wood ducks.

Approximately 1,000 acres of grassland and farm crops (corn and wheat) provide food for wildlife on Muscatatuck through a share-cropping program by local farmers. Canada geese and deer are often seen in these areas.

The Muscatatuck Refuge also serves as a site for many research activities. Canada geese and wood ducks are banded yearly by refuge staff in an effort to learn more about the birds migratory habits. Recent refuge re­search studies have given important infor­mation on wood duck nesting, deer numbers and fish reproduction.

Public Use Opportunitites

Wildlife is given the first consideration at Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge al­though people are also encouraged to use the refuge. Many kinds of wildlife-ori­ented recreation such as wildlife observa­tion, photography, fishing, hunting, hiking, and mushroom and berry picking are permit­ted seasonally in parts of the refuge. The varied habitat and wildlife resources on the refuge also make it an excellent site for en­vironmental education activities. The refuge is a popular "outdoor classroom" with school groups. On occasion special ^vents are scheduled at the refuge Visitor Informa­tion Center and visitors are invited to stop there to orient themselves to the refuge.

Muscatatuck is open sunrise to sunset, year-round. Parts of the refuge are maintained as wildlife sanctuary areas and are closed to the public. Visitors should know the meaning of the refuge signs and be aware of refuge regu­lations to avoid disturbing wildlife. No camp­ing, fires, swimming, off-road vehicle use, or dumping is permitted on the refuge. Hunting and fishing activities are confined to specific areas and dates.

Muscatatuck's climate is characterized by hot, humid summers. Winters are usually mild with light snowfall.

Main Entrance

(NOT TO SCALE) Scale in Kilometers

REFUGE SIGNS -KNOW THEIR MEANING

PUBLIC FISHING AREA^ ilfc Consult Manager for current

AREA OPEN TO FISHING AT SPECIFIC TIMES

PUBLIC HUNTING AREA Limited public hunting under Federal and State laws, toisultManags

AREA OPEN TO HUNTING AT SPECIFIC TIMES

NATIONAL

WILDLIFE

REFUGE

UNAUTHORIZED ENTRY PROHIBITED

REFUGE BOUNDARY SIGN-ENTRY BY PERMISSION ONLY

SANCTUARY AREA-OFF LIMITS TO THE PUBLIC UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED

Wildlife Observation Tips

The best times to see wild life are in the early morning

r and early evening.

March and November are good times to see large concentrations of waterfowl on the refuge. Shore-bird and warbler migration peaks usually occur around the first week of May.

Binoculars and field guides are helpful to have when visiting the refuge. Horseflies are sometimes a nuisance during the summer and hats may be helpful.

When hiking the trails move slowly and remember that patient, quiet observers see the most wildlife.

Location Muscatatuck is located three miles east of Seymour, Indiana. The main entrance is on Rt. 50 approximately three miles east of Interstate 65. The refuge is within easy driving distance of Indianapolis, Louisville, and Cincinnati.

Numerous motel accommodations are available in Seymour and campgrounds are nearby.

Further information about the refuge^may be obtained by calling

81^/522-4352 or by writing: Refuge Manager

Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge

R.R. 7, Box 189A Seymour, In. 47274

f If you have further questions while at the refuge stop by the refuge office. Refuge personnel will be happy to assist you. We hope you enjoy your visit to Muscatatuck!

As the Nation's principal conservation agency, the Depart­ment of the Interior has responsiblility for most of our nationally owned public lands and natural resources. This includes foster­ing the wisest use of our land and water resources, protecting our fish and wildlife, preserving the environmental and cultural values of our national parks and historical places, and provid­ing for the enjoyment of life through outdoor recreation. The Department assesses our energy and mineral resources and works to assure that their development is in the best interests of all our people. The Department also has a major responsibility far American Indian reservation communities and for people who live in island territories under the U.S. administration.

DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR

U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE

us. FISH A WILDLIFE

SERVICE

Si RF-31530-1-05/91

HUNTING HUNTING

Map & Regulations

MUSCATATUCK * Indiana

National Wildlife Refuge

2_

m i , v j i

HUNTING HUNTING

REGULATIONS ON BACK OF MAP

AREA

IMS CLOSED

NO HUNTING ZONE „

PUBLIC HUNTING AREA

•'•PI'

DEER ONiy ̂ Special Regulations in

REFUGE BOUNDARY SIGN — ENTRY BY PERMISSION ONLY

SANCTUARY AREA—OFF LIMITS TO THE PUBLIC UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED

NO HUNTING AREA OPEN TO HUNTING AT SPECIFIC TIMES

DEER HUNTING ONLY UNDER SPECIAL CONDITIONS

LOCATION MAP

Seymour

N t

Scale in Miles

0 1/2 1 1 1 0 .8 1

Scale in Kilometers

LEGEND

IZ GATES

m

(NOT TO SCALE)

PARKING

RESTROOMS

HIKING TRAIL

BOAT LAUNCH

REFUGE OFFICE

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER

OVERLOOK STRUCTURE f

t REFUGE ROADS

— REFUGE BOUNDARY

CLOSED AREA

DEER HUNTING AREA f

RABBIT & OUAIL HUNTING AREA

Hunting Regulations State hunting regulations apply to Muscatatuck subject to the following special conditions:

Type of Hunting Permitted Bag Limit Season Dates

Rabbit Quail

5

8

State seasons except during refuge deer hunts in December

Deer (Special state permit for Muscatatuck)

archery muzzleloader

Second state muzzleloader season

Deer archery

Day after above season closes through Dec. 31

SPECIAL CONDITIONS All refuge regulations apply unless otherwise specified. Hunting is in designated areas only — watch for signs. Hunter parking is not permitted in "No Hunting Zones."

Hunters with a special state permit for Muscatatuck must check in at the refuge office prior to their hunt (that morning or up to three days before). Deer killed on the refuge in either season must be checked out at the refuge office.

The refuge will be open to deer hunting during the refuge deer seasons from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Hunters should park in parking lots.

The refuge west gate will be closed during the special permit deer hunt. Hunters must use the main entrance on Route 50.

Portable, non-damaging tree stands may be used by deer hunters. Stands may be left out overnight in the hunting area starting the day before the refuge deer seasons begin through December 31. Tree stands must be tagged with the hunter's name, address and phone number.

During the special permit deer hunt, only people with a special state permit for Muscatatuck are allowed in the hunting area. These people must wear blaze orange while afield either hunting or scouting.

Refuge hunters may retrieve deer from non-hunting areas of the refuge if: 1) the hunter goes out without weapons and finds the deer and 2) the hunter then reports his find to a refuge officer. Deer cannot be taken from a non-hunting area without permission of a refuge officer. The refuge "closed area" is off-limits to all deer retrieval.

Weapons may be possessed/transported on the refuge only during refuge hunting seasons. Firearms must be unloaded and dismantled or cased before being transported.

No firearms discharge is permitted within 100 yards of an occupied dwelling.

For more information call; 812/522-4352 or write Muscatatuck NWR, Route 7, Box 189A, Seymour, Indiana 47274

QUALITY HUNTING DEPENDS ON YOU PLEASE RESPECT ALL REGULATIONS

•U.S. GPO: 1992—756-188

FISHING FISHING

FISHING Map & Regulations

MUSCATATUCK • Indiana

Nat ional Wild l i fe Refuge

FISHING FISHING

FISHING REGULATIONS ON

BACK OF MAP

REFUGE SIGNS - KNOW THEIR MEANING

NATONAI IWDUR tRHKM

*1̂

f N PUBUC FISHING AREA

v J

FUGE BOUNDARY AREA OPEN TO 3N - ENTRY BY FISHING AT RMIRSION ONLY SPECIFIC TIMES

SANCTUARY AREA - OFF LIMITS TO THE PUBUC UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED

LOCATION MAP

(NOT TO SCALE)

N t

Scale in Miles

1/2

0 £ 1.6 Scale in Kilometers

LEGEND Q PARKING

VISITOR INFORMATIOi CENTER

RESTROOMS

• REFUGE OFFICE

Q BOAT LAUNCH

O HIKING TRAIL

P INTERPRETIVE TRAIL

OVERLOOK STRUCTUF

REFUGE BOUNDARY

— REFUGE ROADS

OPEN TO FISHING AT SPECIFIC TIMES (SEE REGULATIONS)

CLOSED AREA

51 GATES

FISHING WATERS ARE MARKED WITH •'PUBLIC FISHING AREA" SIGNS

Fishing shall be done in accordance with all applicable State regulations subject to the following special conditions and dailv catch limits;

SIPECXAHJ COISTXZ>X TX oisrs

All refuge waters are closed to fishing except those designated by "Public Fishing Area" signs.

Stanfield Lake is open to fishing from hand-powered boats and canoes (no motors). Boats may be launched only from the designated boat ramp. Bank fishing and wading are permitted except from the area of the concrete water control structure (marked with signs).

Ice fishing is permitted on the above areas when conditions are safe.

The refuge is open for day use only from sunrise to sunset. Overnight camping and fires are prohibited.

I^AXX^Y CATCH HXMXTS

Only fishing with rod and reel or pole and line is permitted. "Belly boat" type devices may be used as an aid to wading as long as the occupants feet maintain contact with the ground (may not be used in deep water).

The Display Pond, Mallard Pond, Lake Sheryl, and Stanfield Lake are open to bank fishing and wading May 15 through October 15. The Sandhill Ponds, PersiniDon Ponds, and Lake Linda are open to bank fishing and wading all year except during the special permit deer hunt.

Richart Lake is open to bank fishing and wading during the National Hunting and Fishing Day celebration in September. Check with the Refuge Manager for exact dates.

Frogs and turtles may bo taken by hook and lino during daylight hours from areas open to fishing.

NO limit on bluegill, green sunfish, yellow perch, or bullheads.

Limit of 25 crappie and 25 redear/day.

Limit of 6 walleye and 6 sauger/day.

Limit of 6 base/day and the minimum keeping size for largemouth bass is 14 inches.

Limit of 10 catfish/day and the minimum keeping size is 10 inches.

Limit of 3 northern pike/day and the minimum keeping size is 20 inches.

Limit of 1 muskie/day and the minimum keeping size is 30 inches.

All injuries/accidents should be reported immediately to the refuge office, Muscatatuck Nations Wildlife Refuge, Rt. 7, Box 189A, Seymour, In. 47274. (812)522-4352

Restoring Wetlands for Wildlife In Indiana

Restored Wetland - Jennings County

You Can Have A Wetland Restored On Your Property At No Cost To You

Since 1988, Indiana landowners, in

cooperation with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife

Service, Indiana Department of Natural

Resources, and Soil Conservation

Service have restored hundreds of

drained wetlands in Indiana. They have

transformed wet, underproductive areas

into outstanding wildlife habitat, and in

the process have improved water quality,

assisted in controlling flooding, and

helped recharge groundwater supplies.

What Is A Restored Wetland?

If you have slow-drying spots on your

property that are becoming too wet to farm

or otherwise use, then you may have an

opportunity to restore a wetland. Today,

under the Wetland Restoration Program,

tbe U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service can work at

no cost to you to return that wet ground into

valuable wildlife habitat. A restored wetland,

while not a farm pond, will contain between

1-4 feet of water and provide feeding and

resting areas for waterfowl and many other

kinds of wildlife.

Restored Wetland - Jackson County

I

i The Farmer As Conservationist

Grandpa says... "I can't say it any better than this "...

"When the land does well lor its owner and the owner

does well by his land - when both end up better by reason ol their partnership then we have conservation. When ' one or the other grows poorer, either in substance or in character, or in responsiveness to sun. wind and ram. then we have something else, and it is something we do not' hke." From "The Farmer as a Conservationist"

Aldo Leopold 1939

Why Restore'Wetlands? Today about 86% of the wetlands that

originally existed in Indiana are gone. Many

kinds of wildlife that depended on those

wetlands have become scarce, including

some of our once common species of

ducks. By providing a restored wetland on

your property, you can help support

Indiana's valuable wildlife resources. A

wetland will also help recharge groundwater

supplies, making a big difference in drought

years. Water quality on your land should

improve and water treatment costs may be

lowered.

How Is Restoration Done?

Wetlands can often be restored by simply

removing a segment of existing tile. In other

cases, a ditch plug may be required. If your

area is suitable for restoration, the Fish &

Wildlife Service will provide personnel and/or

a private contractor to do the workon your

land at no cost to you. The first step is to

contact the Fish & Wildlife Service Office

closest to you (see map on back).

What Do People Say About Restored Wetlands?

Landowners restore wetlands for a

number of reasons. Most share a belief

that allowing some part of their land to

return to its pre-drained state will attract

wildlife and provide other benefits beyond

just the few acres restored.

"I believe landowners must maintain a

balance between agriculture production

and protection of our nation's rapidly

disappearing wetlands. Wetlands are the

best overall fish and wildlife habitat we

have. The large wetland I restored was

one of marginal crop value and should

never have been drained. Today it is a

haven for wildlife and is my favorite place

among the 1500 acres I farm in Knox

County."

Ray McCormick,

Knox County

"I guess I would say that not only do

we have something of beauty, and good

habitat, and flood control, the most

important thing is that the water is clean

and clear when it finally enters the river."

Jerome Sponseller,

Kosciusko County

If You Are Interested In Learning More

«

Please call or mail this page to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office nearest you.

NAME/ADDRESS

COUNTY OF SITE

PHONE#

BEST TIME TO CALL

Thank you for your interest in the wetland restoration program!

Wetland Restoration Offices for Indiana Each Office Covers Certain Counties

1. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Bloomington Field Office 718 North Walnut St. Bloomington,IN 47401 812-334-4261

2. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge R.R. 7. Box 189A Seymour, IN 47274 812-522-4352

3. U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Patoka River Office P.O. Box 510 Winslow, IN 47598-0359 812-789-2102

Printed on Recycled Paper

Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge

The Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge, lo­cated three miles east of Seymour, Ind. (entrance on U.S. Route 50), is a 7,724 acre area managed for wildlife by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

-

Providing food, shelter, and nesting areas for waterfowl is the primary purpose of the Mus­catatuck Refuge and many kinds of native birds and animals benefit from refuge management practices. The refuge is a great place to see ducks, geese, hawks, songbirds, white-tailed deer, muskrats, squirrels, raccoons, rabbits, and many other animals in their natural envi­ronment. The birds and animals present vary with the time of year; while spring and fall are good times to observe migrating ducks and geese, summer is the time to see young wood ducks and Canada geese that have hatched on the refuge. Winter is a good time to observe year-round residents of the refuge plus winter visitors that sometimes include tundra swans, northern harriers, goldeneye ducks, and short-eared owls. The very best times to see wildlife on the refuge are just after sunrise and just before sunset.

Wildlife observers are always welcome on Mus­catatuck and can often find animals by driving some of the nine miles of gravel roads, walking the hiking trails, or exploring around the large refuge lakes. Refuge information is available at the Office (open 8-4:30 M-F) and at the Visitor Center which is staffed by volunteers on Satur­day and Sunday afternoons (maps are available from dispensers when staff are not present). A nature bookstore managed by the Muscatatuck Wildlife Society is located in the Visitor Center and is open when staff are present. Literature about the self-guided Auto Tour and the self-guided Nature Trail (the Chestnut Ridge Trail) is also available at the Visitor Center. Refuge hours are sunrise to sunset seven days/week and there is no admission fee.

In addition to wildlife observation, photography, fishing, hunting, hiking, and mushroom and berry picking are permitted seasonally in parts of Muscatatuck. The refuge is a popular educa­tional site for school groups and teacher work­shops are held on the refuge each year. No camping, fires, swimming, or off-road vehicle use is permitted on the refuge and areas open to , fishing and hunting are indicated by signs.

LOCATION MAP To Indianapolis

To Louisville

For more information about the Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge call 812/522-4352 or write: Refuge Manager, Muscatatuck N.W.R., R.R. 7, Box 189A, Seymour, IN 47274

MUSCATATUCK NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Main Entrance

Seymour

LEGEND

cu

PARKING

RESTROOMS

INTERPRETIVE TRAIL

HIKING TRAIL

BOAT LAUNCH

REFUGE OFFICE

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER

OVERLOOK STRUCTURE

REFUGE BOUNDARY

REFUGE ROADS

CLOSED AREA

GATES

W I L D L I F E S O C I E T Y

Recycled Paper

>

BIRDS MUSCATATUCK National Wildlife Refuge Indiana

Legend This list contains 228 birds observed on the refuge. Another 32 species, very rare or accidental and out of their normal range, are listed under "Accidental" birds. S—spring March-May s—summer June-August F—fall September-November W—winter December-February

a—abundant—common species that is very numerous, c—common—certain to be seen in suitable habitat, u—uncommon—present but not certain to be seen, o—occasional—seen only a few times during a season, r—rare—seen at intervals of 2-5 years

^indicates birds which nest locally

*

Bird S s F W

Common Loon o o o Pied-billed Grebe* u u c o Horned Grebe o 0 Double-crested Cormorant 0 o 0 American Bittern o o o 0 Least Bittern* o o o Great Blue Heron* c c c c Great Egret o o o 0 Snowy Egret r r Little Blue Heron 0 0 0 0 Cattle Egret 0 0 0 Green-backed Heron* u u u o Black-crowned Night Heron* u u u o Yellow-crowned Night Heron u o 0 o TundraSwan 0 r 0 o Greater White-fronted Goose 0 o Snow Goose 0 o o 0 Canada Goose* a a a a Wood Duck* a a a c Green-winged Teal* c

a u 0

American Black Duck c o c c Mallard* a a a a Northern Pintail c

a u u

Blue-winged Teal* c c c 0 Northern Shoveler u u 0 Gadwall c o c u American Wigeon c u u Canvasback 0 0 0 Redhead u u 0 Ring-necked Duck a c c Greater Scaup o LesserScaup u o c c Common Goldeneye u u 0 Bufflehead 0 o 0 Hooded Merganser* u u u 6 Common Merganser o 0 Ruddy Duck o 0 0 Turkey Vulture* c c c u Osprey 0 o 0 Bald Eagle 0 0 r Northern Harrier c 0 c c Sharp-shinned Hawk u u u u Coopers Hawk* u u u u Northern Goshawk r r Red-shouldered Hawk* u u u u Broad-winged Hawk 0 0 Red-tailed Hawk* c c c c

_ Rough-legged Hawk _ Golden Eagle ... _ American Kestrel*

Ring-necked Pheasant _ Ruffed Grouse ....

WildTurkey* _v Northern Bobwhite*

_ King Rail* VirginiaRail*

_ Sora* _ Common Moorhen _ American Coot* .. _ Sandhill Crane ...

Semipalmated Plover _ Killdeer* _ GreaterYellowlegs _ LesserYellowlegs. _ Solitary Sandpiper _ Spotted Sandpiper*

Semipalmated Sandpiper Western Sandpiper

_ Least Sandpiper .. _ Dunlin _ White-rumped Sandpiper _ Baird's Sandpiper....

Pectoral Sandpiper... Short-billed Dowitcher

_ Long-billed Dowitcher _ Common Snipe _ American Woodcock*

_ Franklin's Gull _ Ring-billed Gull _ Herring Gull _ Forster'sTern _ BlackTern

. Rock Dove _ Mourning Dove* ....

. Black-billed Cuckoo* Yellow-billed Cuckoo*

Eastern Screech-Owl * . Great Horned Owl* ..

_ Barred Owl* _ Long-eared Owl

Short-eared Owl . . . .

_ Common Nighthawk* _ Chuck-will's-widow*

;

Bird S s F W Bird S s F W

Whip-poor-will

Chimney Swift*

Ruby-throated Hummingbird*..

Belted Kingfisher*

Red-headed Woodpecker* Red-bellied Woodpecker* Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Downy Woodpecker* Hairy Woodpecker Northern Flicker* Pileated Woodpecker*

Olive-sided Flycatcher Eastern Wood-Pewee* Acadian Flycatcher* Willow Flycatcher* Least Flycatcher Eastern Phoebe* Great Crested Flycatcher* Eastern Kingbird*

Horned Lark Purple Martin* Tree Swallow* Northern Rough-winged Swallow Bank Swallow* Cliff Swallow* .' Barn Swallow* . .

Blue Jay* American Crow*

Black-capped Chickadee Carolina Chickadee* Tufted Titmouse*

Red-breasted Nuthatch White-breasted Nuthatch*

Brown Creeper

Carolina Wren*^ HouseWren* WinterWren* Sedge Wren*

Golden-crowned Kinglet Ruby-crowned Kinglet Blue-gray Gnatcatcher*

Eastern Bluebird* Veery* Gray-cheeked Thrush Swainson's Thrush

Hermit Thrush

—

u Wood Thrush* u c American Robin* c c c c

Gray Catbird* c c c Northern Mockingbird* c c c c Brown Thrasher* c c c c

Water Pipit 0 o u

Cedar Waxwing* u u u u

Loggerhead Shrike u o u

European Starling* c c c c

White-eyed Vireo* c c Bell's Vireo* u u Solitary Vireo u

u u

Yellow-throated Vireo* u u u

Warbling Vireo* c c Philadelphia Vireo *. .. . u u Red-eyed Vireo* u c

u

Blue-winged Warbler* c c Tennessee Warbler u u Nashville Warbler u u Northern Parula* u u

u

Yellow Warbler* c c Chestnut-sided Warbler u u Magnolia Warbler u u Cape May Warbler u u Black-throated Blue Warbler u u Yellow-rumped Warbler c c 0 Black-throated Green Warbler u u Blackburnian Warbler u u Yellow-throated Warbler* '•..... u u u Pine Warbler 0

u u

Prairie Warbler* u u u

Palm Warbler c u

c Bay-breasted Warbler u u Blackpoll Warbler u u Cerulean Warbler* u u

u

Black-and-white Warbler u u

u American Redstart* u u r Prothonotary Warbler* u u Worm-eating Warbler u

u u

Ovenbird* u u u Northern Waterthrush u

u u

Louisiana Waterthrush u u Kentucky Warbler* u u

u

Connecticut Warbler u u

u Mourning Warbler u u u u

S s F W

Common Yellowthroat* Hooded Warbler Wilson's Warbler Canada Warbler Ye]low-breastedChat*

SummerTanager* Scarlet Tanager*

Northern Cardinal* Rose-breasted Grosbeak Blue Grosbeak* Indigo Bunting* Dickcissel* ..

Rufous-sided Towhee* American Tree Sparrow Chipping Sparrow* Field Sparrow* Vesper Sparrow Savannah Sparrow GrasshopperSparrow* Henslow'sSparrow* Fox Sparrow

-Song Sparrow* Lincoln's Sparrow Swamp Sparrow White-throated Sparrow White-crowned Sparrow Dark-eyed J unco Lapland Longspur Snow Bunting

Bobolink Red-winged Blackbird* Eastern Meadowlark* Rusty Blackbird Common Grackle* Brown-headed Cowbird* Orchard Oriole* Northern Oriole*

Purple Finch' House Finch Red Crossbill Pine Siskin American Goldfinch* Evening Grosbeak

House Sparrow*

f

Sighting Notes Date

Time in Field

Weather

Observers

Species Total

Location

-

Accidental Birds Red-necked Grebe Caspian Tern Eared Grebe Common Tern Tricolored Heron Least Tern Glossy Ibis Common Barn-owl Cinnamon Teal Northern Saw-whet Owl Oldsquaw Yellow-bellied Flycatcher Ruddy Shellduck Bewick's Wren Fulvous Whistling Duck Marsh Wren Black Vulture Golden-winged Warbler American Swallow-tailed Kite Orange-crowned Warbler Peregrine Falcon Lark Sparrow Merlin Leconte's Sparrow Black-bellied Plover Harris' Sparrow Upland Sandpiper Brewers Blackbird Ruddy Turnstone White-winged Crossbill Bonaparte's Gull Common Redpoll

Visiting Tips Birdwatching is encouraged.

Please check at the refuge office for times and places of entry.

PLEASE OBEY POSTED SIGNS.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Refuge Manager Muscatatuck NWR Route 7, Box 189-A Seymour, Indiana 47274 Phone (812)522-4352

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE

RF3-31530-2-2/87

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