| They're found along
roads and highways, are brown with the outline of binoculars on them, and are usually
near brushy areas or wetlands. They're the Watchable Wildlife signs which identify areas
with a high probability of viewing wildlife. Each area offers a unique or exceptional
chance to view wildlife in their natural homes. Part of the excitement lies in the
uncertainty. Unlike more predictable opportunities to view wildlife, these sites are homes
to a diverse number of animals, any of which you might encounter during your visit. To
improve your chances, walk quietly and slowly into the wind, come early in the morning, or
late afternoon, and above all be patient. The abundance of wildlife on the Hoosier
National Forest is impressive: 50 species of mammals, 142 bird species, 36 reptillian and
28 amphibian species, 125 fish, and we're finding more species all the time. Finding these
animals is part of the adventure.
The Forest is a collage of
ecosystems. Each ecosystem is unique in the types of animals who make their home there.
The Watchable Wildlife sites showcase some of these habitat types. Bring your binoculars
and your camera, and tread softly to view the real owners of the Hoosier National Forest.
Sites on the Forest include:
Indiana Wildlife Viewing Guide
These are only five of the 33 identified sites scattered across southern Indiana, and
only a fraction of the limitless opportunities visitors have to view and enjoy Indiana's
vast wealth of wildlife.
Indiana Wildlife Viewing Guides may be purchased for $5.95 (plus tax and postage) from
the Hoosier National Forest office in Bedford. Watchable Wildlife is a national program
with sites identified in most states.
Celebrating Wildflowers
The following sites are not signed, but are recommended locations for
viewing wildflowers. The links will take you to the US Forest Service
national webpage, but the sites are on the Hoosier NF.
For more information or to purchase a book contact us at
r9_hoosier_website@fs.fed.us
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