SEYMOUR — The symphony of spring migration is reaching its crescendo, and the Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge is set to host its premier event of the season. The Wings Over Muscatatuck Migratory Bird Festival returns next Saturday, April 25, offering nature enthusiasts a front-row seat to the peak of the songbird migration.
The festival, which has been a staple of the Southern Indiana community for over 25 years, is hosted by the Muscatatuck Wildlife Society, a non-profit “Friends” group dedicated to preserving the 7,800-acre refuge.
- When: Saturday, April 25, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Where: Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge (U.S. 50, between Seymour and North Vernon).
- Cost: Free admission for all ages.
The morning begins early for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the refuge’s diverse inhabitants. Muscatatuck is a critical stopover for migratory species, and April is a particularly busy month on the marshes.
- Guided Bird Viewing: Starting at 8:00 a.m., expert guides will lead walks to spot nesting Great Blue Herons, visiting Great Egrets, and the early arrivals of the warbler migration.
- Sandhill Crane Programs: Specialized programs will focus on these prehistoric-looking giants, which are often spotted socializing in the refuge’s open grasslands.
- Raptor Presentations: Wildlife educators will provide up-close looks at live birds of prey, explaining the vital role hawks, owls, and eagles play in the Indiana ecosystem.
One of the festival’s most popular draws is the Guided Van Tours. These tours take visitors into the “closed areas” of the refuge—sections typically off-limits to the public to provide undisturbed habitat for nesting wildlife.
For those inspired by the scenery, the festival will feature Plein Air painting opportunities. Artists of all skill levels are invited to set up their easels outdoors, capturing the shifting light and natural beauty of the wetlands in real-time.
The festival isn’t just for serious ornithologists; it’s designed to be a “hands-on” experience for the next generation of conservationists.
- Junior Carpenters: Children can participate in the annual birdhouse building workshop (9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.), constructing pine houses to take home.
- Native Plant Sale: Gardeners looking to attract their own backyard birds can browse a selection of native plants throughout the day.
- Silent Auction: Proceeds from the auction and plant sale go directly to the Muscatatuck Wildlife Society to fund refuge improvements, such as observation decks and educational programs.
Lunch on the Refuge
No festival is complete without a themed meal. A special lunch will be available for purchase, featuring:
- Smoked chicken wings
- Pulled pork
- Hot dogs
Whether you’re a seasoned photographer hoping for the perfect shot of a Bald Eagle or a family looking for an educational Saturday outdoors, Wings Over Muscatatuck offers a unique window into Indiana’s wild side.
