Russell Preserve
Preserve Details
Amenities
A bird blind built by an Eagle Scout for viewers to observe undisturbed wildlife stands about .25 miles from the entrance.
Features and size
he Russell Preserve (donated by Mary Jane and Ed Russell in 1992) is a 9 acre haven for birds. The preserve fronts on High Ridge Road just south of Upper Shad Road. Over 100 different species of birds have been observed on the property, including Woodcock, Great Blue Heron, Bittern, Golden Winged Warbler, American Redstart, nesting Screech Owls, Crested Flycatchers and Wood Ducks. There is also a 1.5 acre man-made pond and many trees and shrubs that were planted to provide food and shelter for bird life. The preserve is open dawn to dusk.
PRLC intends to extend the trail in 2018 by adding a bridge to one of the islands in the pond.
Flora & Fauna
Mature White pines and spruces dominate the canopy along much of the trail with sparse understory in the dense shade except for native currant, holly, and greenbriar. Wetland shrubs line the edges in a tangle of spicebush, winterberry, Silky dogwood, and Highbush blueberry. Look for the pretty blooms of Cardinal flower and Blue flag iris in summer and asters and goldenrods in the fall. Painted turtles are often seen basking on logs and lily pads in the pond, while the Snapping turtles stay more hidden. Over 100 bird species have been recorded here including American bittern, Wood duck, nesting Screech owls, Golden-winged warbler, Crested flycatcher, and Baltimore oriole. Deer, fox, and raccoon are common. Occasionally, a beaver, muskrat or fisher is sighted.