by Christine Smyczynski
This article, the second in a series of 17 that focus on the various birding sites along the 518-mile Seaway Trail, describes the Presque Isle area in Erie, Pennsylvania. Presque Isle is a Pennsylvania State Park which is located on a 3,200 acre peninsula about 4 miles west of downtown Erie. This 7 mile long stretch of land has sand dunes, landlocked ponds, and marshes which are used by migrating birds.
It is a National Natural Landmark with many unique habitats which are home to many species of wildlife, some of which are endangered, threatened, or rare. About 320 species of birds can be found in the park; about 45 of these species are considered endangered or threatened. Some of these include the Cerulean Warbler, Piping Plover, and Rusty Blackbird. Purple Martins also roost by the thousands near beach #11 and in the cattails near the water treatment plant.
Presque Isle is listed as Pennsylvania Important Bird Area #1 by the Pennsylvania Audubon Society and it has been rated one of the best places to bird watch in the United States by Birders World Magazine. One of the more unique areas at Presque Isle is the Gull Point Natural Area, which is actually closed to public use April to November to preserve the natural habitat.
To find out more about Presque Isle, stop by the Tom Ridge Environmental Center at the entrance to the park. The center has interactive educational exhibits about the area, as well as a gift shop, cafeteria, and a 75 foot observation tower overlooking Lake Erie. Other activities at Presque Isle include 11 beaches, 11 miles of hiking trails, 4 boat launches, fishing areas, picnic facilities, two lighthouses, bike rentals, fishing areas, and even scenic boat tours.
The annual Discover Presque Isle Festival is scheduled for July 23-25, 2010. The event features a variety of activities and entertainment. For more info see www.discoverpi.com
For more information about the area, see the following websites:
www.visitpaparks.com
www.visiterie.com
www.trecpi.org