(Chelsea Update would like to thank Tom Hodgson and the Waterloo Natural History Association for the information in this story.)
After my recent article on great egrets it’s only fitting that local sightings are picking up, especially at the Haehnle Sanctuary. The Portage River has flooded periodically this summer due to frequent rains. Now the waters are receding, trapping fish in isolated ponds.
The result is easy pickings for local herons.
One such pond at the Haehnle Sanctuary is being frequented by both great blue herons and great egrets, and the largest numbers are being seen in the morning.
The pond is adjacent to Wooster Road just south of the Portage River. The quickest way to reach the site is to travel I-94 to Race Rd. Turn north on Race Road and go to the end. Turn left on Seymour Road, proceed about two miles to Wooster Road. Turn right and travel about eight-tenths of a mile.
The pond will be on the right. If you get to the bridge over the Portage River you’ve gone too far. Binoculars are recommended.
