Moeckly Prairie (private property)

Moeckly Prairie (private property)

Crocker, Iowa 50226

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Tips for Birding

From road on the east side, scan the pasture area for grassland breeders in spring and summer.  In migration, this area is often just generally birdy with flocks of kingbirds, swallows, and sparrows perched on the boundary fences.  There are often a few raptors around.

Birds of Interest

Bobolink, Dickcissel, Eastern Meadowlark, and Grasshopper Sparrow in summer.  Depending on how wet it has been, the ponds may have waterfowl and/or shorebirds in migration. The fences enclosing the property are often birdy in migration.  Both dark ibis have been found here.  In winter, there is often a Rough-legged Hawk around.

About this Location

This is private property which must be viewed only from public roads or the High Trestle Trail.  From Polk City, take NW 118th Avenue east.  Look for this block of unplowed pasture land just after crossing the bike trail.  The safest viewing is from the gravel road (NW 30th St) that runs north along the east border of the property.

Features

  • Roadside viewing

  • Restrooms on site

  • Wheelchair accessible trail

  • Entrance fee

Content from Iowa Ornithologists' Union

Last updated February 16, 2023