Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt--Hwy 65 access and trail

Chichaqua Bottoms Greenbelt--Hwy 65 access and trail

Bondurant, Iowa 50035

Printable County Checklist
Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge Checklist

Tips for Birding

This access has a well developed trail that runs through grassland, wetland, and shrubby habitats.  Conditions vary greatly based on how wet it is.  

Birds of Interest

This area can be very good for grassland and wetland birds depending on habitat conditions. 

About this Location

Watch for signage and the paved parking area on the west side of Highway 65.

About Chichaqua Greenbelt/Neal Smith NWR Bird Conservation Area

See all hotspots at Chichaqua Greenbelt/Neal Smith NWR Bird Conservation Area

Criteria 1. Endangered species: Northern harrier regularly seen during Spring and Fall migrations, short-eared owl observed on the refuge during migration and winter. Threatened species: Henslow's sparrows have been seen and heard singing regularly during the past several summers. Criteria 2. HIgh Conservation Priority. Loggerhead shrike, grasshoppper sparrow, and bobolink have all been observed by me either on the refuge or directly adjacent to refuge property during the last two breeding seasons. Grasshopper sparrow and bobolink have been recorded on breeding season points on the refuge during at least the last two years. Criteria 3. Neal Smith NWR supports one of the largest expanses of tallgrass prairie habitat in Iowa and provides vital breeding habitat for grassland songbirds including both eastern and western meadowlarks, grasshopper and vesper sparrows, bobolink, dickcissel, and sedge wren. Upland sandpipers have also been seen in the area. Criteria 5. As a national wildlife refuge, Neal Smith NWR is a natural site for long term research and montoring. In addition to the potential for monitoring and research, the mission of the refuge is to provide for education about the tallgrass prairie ecosystem.

Features

  • Restrooms on site

  • Wheelchair accessible trail

  • Roadside viewing

  • Entrance fee

Content from Chichaqua Greenbelt/Neal Smith NWR BCA

Last updated February 20, 2023