Hullett Wildlife Area a great spot for bird,
nature lovers
Visitors who like watching waterfowl
and other birds have a unique opportunity at the Hullett Provincial Wildlife
Area (HPWA), a 5,420-acres wetland and upland reserve northeast of Clinton.
Situated along the Maitland River
between Seaforth and Clinton and one concession north of Highway 8, the HPWA
offers marshes, fields and forests for wildlife habitation.
The HPWA is located along the
migratory paths of the Atlantic and Mississippi waterfowls, and has two viewing
stands that allow visitors to see the birds in the Pintail and Bluebill pools.
The Hullett Marsh Waterfowler’s Association also works with other HPWA
volunteers and contributors to protect and promote the habitat of the
waterfowl. Canoeists are welcome to utilize the ponds and enjoy close-ups of
the wildlife, except between May 15-August 1 while the waterfowl are nesting.
Hunting waterfowl, pheasant, wild turkey, white-tailed deer and small game is
permitted in certain zones during hunting seasons.
Two recently-added
trails allow more opportunities for those who wish to hike or horseback ride
while enjoying the diverse wildlife, trees and flowers. The trails vary in
length and difficulty, accommodating the different goals and abilities of each
visitor.
2015 saw the completion of the
60-acre grassland, a habitat created by the Friends of Hullett, the Ministry of
Natural Resources and Ducks Unlimited, for the preservation of the Eastern
Meadowlark, the Bobolink and other grassland species.
From February 1 to June 15, a
400-metre buffer zone surrounds the eagle’s nest at the HPWA and provides the
birds with an undisturbed environment during breeding season. In 2015 two
eaglets successfully hatched.
For
more information, contact the Friends of Hullett at 519-482-7011. The HPWA
guide book can be found on their website at www.hullettmarsh.com.