Red-tail Land Conservancy

05/29/2026

Most times you’ll find Swifties flocking towards stadiums … at Dutro-Ernst Nature Preserve, you’ll find them in our new Chimney Swift Tower!

A big thank you to the Robert Cooper Audubon Society for funding and constructing this wonderful structure. These amazing little birds need safe places to roost and nest, and this tower gives them a place to “Shake It Off” after a long migration.

You don’t need a ticket to tour this preserve! While Chimney Swifts usually put on their performances in the evening, we welcome you to check out the tower from sunrise to sunset!

More information on Robert Cooper Audubon Society can be found on their site https://cooperaudubon.org/

More information on Dutro-Ernst Woods can be found at our site https://fortheland.org/dutro-ernst-woods/

05/27/2026

Please join us in welcoming our newest Stewardship Technician, Olaf Larson, to the Red-tail team!

Olaf brings a wealth of experience to the role, ranging from his education in Natural Resources from Purdue University, to firsthand experience managing his own land, and being connected within the local conservation community.

We are excited to have him on board and look forward to the knowledge and passion he will bring to Red-tail! Welcome Olaf!

05/26/2026

Spring means cute wildlife babies are everywhere - and the best thing you can do is leave them alone!

🦝Between mid-spring to mid-summer, the likelihood of seeing juvenile wildlife increases, and so does public concern for their health and safety.

🦌While we aren’t always used to seeing young wildlife on their own, there’s usually no reason to fret. Wildlife parenting methods look different than ours, but trust that they know best and are nearer than you think!

🐢Red-tail is not permitted to assist in wildlife injuries, but if you believe that you have come across an injured or orphaned animal, please refer to the Indiana DNR’s guidance at: https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/wildlife-resources/orphaned-and-injured-animals/

05/23/2026

🐢Shellebrate World Turtle Day today! 🐢

Did you know that there are over 16 species of turtle that call Indiana home? Species like the Eastern Box Turtle even function as an indicator species - meaning that their presence in a habitat can inform scientists about the overall health of an ecosystem.

Unfortunately, most populations of turtles in Indiana are on the decline due to habitat loss and fragmentation, road mortality, pollution, and even collection by humans.

To see what you can do to help these reptilian Hoosiers, consider learning more about them from IDNR’s Fish and Wildlife pages at: https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/wildlife-resources/animals/

05/22/2026

Red-tail's office will be closed on Monday, May 25 for Memorial Day. However, don't let that stop you from enjoying a day out in nature!

Our public nature preserves across east central Indiana are open 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. Discover a nature preserve near you and start your exploration at www.ForTheLand.org.

Please report any trail issues to 765-288-2587.

05/20/2026

05/20/2026

🐝It’s World Bee Day! 🐝

This year's theme, "Bee together for people and the planet", highlights the critical roles bees and other pollinators play in the health of our planet's ecosystems.

Pollinators are threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and more. We all need to do our part to protect these wonderful species, as we depend on them for food and diverse wild plant species.

Take time today to learn about bees, pollinators, and how best to support them as you celebrate World Bee Day!

05/19/2026

The rain over the weekend has called for a change in flight plans! 🌦

Learn About Nature Through Birding has been rescheduled for Thursday, May 30th from 9am-11am at Red-tail Nature Preserve.🔭

This birding outing is open to all age groups, but geared toward ages 8-15. A parent or guardian is required. This event is free, but space is limited and registration is required. 🦆

Register with the link below to secure your spot!
https://fortheland.org/event/youth-birding-hike-2026/