Have you been to the MCWMA? The Geese Are Coming!

Posted by Jeff Pauls on 29th Jan 2019

Have you been to the MCWMA? The Geese Are Coming!

The Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area is truly a gift to the world. Here in Lancaster County, we have the privilege of being close to it. It’s perfect for an afternoon of hiking, bird watching, and taking in the beauty of our environment.

Snow Geese

One event that draws a lot of visitors, is the annual migration of snow geese. Perhaps you’ve made the annual trip to see them at Middle Creek? If you haven’t, the snow geese are always open to more visitors. According to Penn Live’s Marcus Schneck, last year’s first sighting of them was right at the end of January. But then colder weather pushed them back south again until later in the third week of February. “The peak, which in 2007 hit its record of 170,000, usually comes in late February or early March.”

"In 2010, Middle Creek was designated as a Globally Significant Important Bird Area, based on hosting a large percentage of the world's population of Tundra Swans and Snow Geese.” This designation is made by the Audubon Society. “As the U.S. partner for BirdLife International, Audubon spearheads an ambitious effort to identify, monitor, and protect the most important places for birds. [They] also collaborate with 19 international partners to extend a web of protection throughout the Western Hemisphere.”

So, if you’re up for it, make plans to visit. You won’t be sorry. Witnessing the arrival of that many snow geese in one place is something you won’t forget.

But Wait, There’s More!

Middle Creek has so much to offer, visiting several times a year would be a great way to take in the various flora and fauna that can be experienced throughout the seasons. Middle Creek is home to bald eagles, red tail hawks, a variety of ducks, for example, green-winged teal, northern pintails, northern shovelers, and mallards. Grassland birds, such as grasshopper sparrows, bobolinks, red-winged blackbirds and eastern meadowlarks, are also in residence. If you like songbirds, like the gray catbird, northern cardinal, willow flycatcher, yellow warbler, and more, you won’t be disappointed. 

And while you’re hiking along one of their many trails, be sure to pay attention to all the plants above your head and at your feet. There are hundreds of types of wildlife flowers to enjoy.

If your goal this year is to get outside more, Middle Creek is a perfect way to do it! You’ll expand your mind, your lungs, and your world. Middle Creek has so much to give. You’ll want to get back there again and again. Go with your family, go with your friends, or go by yourself...but go! Go often!

Helpful Links for Your Visits

Excellent Videos Capturing MCWMA Experiences