Visitors may encounter birds like tree swallows, redtail hawks, great blue heron, green heron, and kingfisher. Mammals include white-tailed deer, river otters, red foxes, coyotes, and black bears. Other animals include painted turtles, frogs, and freshwater mussels. Notable tree and plant species include shagbark hickory, a rare buttonbush swamp, and cat tails – all making the trail a vibrant and exciting spot for nature observation
Oakes Preserve
Difficulty: Easy
Trail: 0.4 mi
Parking: Yes | Kiosks with Map: No | Benches: No | Tables: Yes (Gazebo)
Trail History:
The Oakes Preserve in Avon, CT, has a rich history dating back to the Paleo-Indian period, roughly 12,500 years ago. The area was settled by the Tunxis people, who were part of the Algonquian tribes, around 1000 years ago. The first English settler in the area was Stephen Hart of Farmington. The area was known as “the land att Nod” by the English. The preserve features a buttonbush swamp and Lake Erie from which ice was harvested in the 19th century.
Wildlife overview:
Page Modified By: Brendan DaCunha
Troop 274 Eagle Project
Troop 274 Eagle Project
