The Geological Story of Great Marsh Trail
During the last ice age, glaciers advanced and receded, leaving behind the massive dune ridges that run along the southernmost shore of Lake Michigan. Water from melting ice and enormous waves was separated from the lake by the mighty dunes, and formed the basis for the Great Marsh. Unlike swamps, which typically include a variety of trees, the wet soil that makes up the marsh support a variety of shrubs, bushes, and grass.
This remarkable wetlands habitat once spanned twelve miles. As the region was settled, farmers and developers drained much of the wetlands. Today, the National Park Service and other environmental organizations work hard to preserve this important habitat.
Beautiful Birds of Great Marsh Trail
The Great Marsh Trail is a seasonal home and waystation to a dizzying array of waterfowl and migrating birds. Majestic sandhill cranes will stop to rest and to fish in these waters during their long fall migration, along with other graceful birds like great egrets and blue herons. Around them swim mallards and wood ducks. Visitors to the Great Marsh Trail may hear the loud chittering call of kingfishers, brightly colored birds that thrive near water, and 36 different species of warblers nest or pass through the marsh. Osprey and bald eagles have even been spotted in the area. Birdwatchers can see or hear literally hundreds of species of birds along the Great Marsh Trail.
Marvelous Plants of Great Marsh Trail
Thanks to ongoing restoration efforts, the Great Marsh Trail not only provides an important habitat for birds, but several native plants also thrive here. These include wildflowers like the small but lovely forget-me-nots, golden ragwort, and the appropriately named skunk cabbage, a remarkable plant whose distinctive odor allows it to attract pollinating flies even in winter.
You may also spot the beautiful yellow marsh marigolds, but don’t let their attractive appearance fool you. These attractive flowers are poisonous.
TO ADD: Horsetail plant by birdwatching platform is an ancient plant.
Amazing Animals of Great Marsh Trail
Beavers were once rare in Indiana, after being hunted for their pelts in the 19th century. These shy and busy animals were reintroduced in 1935 and are now thriving. Evidence of their work can be seen in the Great Marsh both in their dams and in the chewing marks left on tree stumps.
Add-muskrats (differences between beaver), snakes, painted turtles, snapping turtles
TO ADD: RIGHT OFF THE MAIN PARKING LOT IS A PATCH OF FLORA THAT DRAWS MONARCHS, PRAYING MANTISES, AND HAWK MOTHS (THEY LOOK LIKE HUMMINGBIRDS WHEN THEY FLY)
Noteworthy
TO ADD: THE GREAT MARSH ONCE WENT ALL THE WAY FROM GARY TO PAST MICHIGAN CITY. CONSERVATION EFFORTS ARE HELPING TO RESTORE THE MARSH AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.
Although all of the land that makes up the Indiana Dunes is crucial to the survival of hundreds of species of birds, the Great Marsh is particularly important. Four out of five of them take advantage of the shelter provided by this precious wetland.
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