This trail follows a large wooded oxbow that is a relatively easy and consistent spot for the locally uncommon Prothonotary Warbler.  Other species typical of riparian forests and forested wetlands may be found here.

Prothonotary Warbler, Green Heron, Pileated Woodpecker, migrant passerines.

Important Bird Area.
in northeast Polk Co. Take the Elkhart/F-22 exit off I-35 and drive 5.5 miles east through Elkhart to a T-intersection with NE 72nd St. Turn left (north) on 72nd and follow for one mile as it curves northeast and east. Look for the entrance signs to the park.  The trailhead is at the back of the campground area.  Look for signage.

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.