Spring Waterfowl Migration

March in the Oxbow means ducks, as spring waterfowl migration peaks during this month. The Oxbow has historically been a magnet for migrating birds, but especially for waterfowl. Other species of birds will also be seen but it would be difficult to ignore the waterfowl during any March visit to the Oxbow area.

At least 34 species of waterfowl have been recorded in the Oxbow over the years and about 25 of those occur regularly. Many other signs of spring should be noticeable. It has become common to see Bald Eagles in the Oxbow area during any month of the year and on any given day. That said, March still represents the peak of spring migration for Bald Eagles. Sandhill Cranes and large concentrations of gulls could also be seen. When you add these migrants with lingering winter visitors and the local residents, a great diversity of species, some in large numbers, can be found during this month.

Our plan will probably be to move around to several locations in the Oxbow area to better our chances of finding a wide variety of species. March also brings rain and potential flooding to the Oxbow bottoms, so some areas can be inaccessible. However, flood waters open up new and temporary areas where waterfowl and other water birds can forage, so we will adjust plans on the day of the trip. Expect a little driving from spot to spot interspersed with some light walking.

Dress for late winter and expect some mud on your shoes. This morning trip that will end around noon. There are no restrooms available in the Oxbow but there are many nearby businesses open to the public.

We will meet at the Oxbow at 8AM

Where to meet
Upper parking lot at the main entrance to the Oxbow
17160 Reardon Drive
Lawrenceburg, IN 47025

You can search for “Oxbow Nature Conservancy” on Google maps (or other navigation application) for directions.

Carpool information
If you would like to carpool to the location with us, we will meet at 6:30AM in the TJ Maxx parking lot in Oxford.