IBA Site Information

Muskrat Slough

State IBA

Jones County

Directions: From Olin take E45 West four miles, turn left (south) onto 160th Ave. The north access road will be your next right hand turn. To get to the boat ramp continue on 160th Ave. Turn right on 35th St. and turn right at the intersection of 170th Ave.

Description: Muskrat slough is the largest state wetland area in Jones County, originally a glacial lake Muskrat slough is important not only to bird species, but plant species as well. Muskrat slough is an important stop over for migrating waterfowl and other bird species. Large concentrations of waterfowl can be seen each fall and spring. Sandhill cranes have been spotted regularly at the marsh, and six trumpeter swans were released here in the spring of 2001. Bald eagles, northern harriers, red-shouldered hawks, rails, terns, plovers, as well as a plethora of other bird speceis including waterfowl, gulls and terns, shorebirds, wading birds, raptors, and landbirds, have all been seen at Muskrat Slough.

Criteria for this site
Endangered or threatened species habitat
High conservation priority
Rare or unique habitat
Significant species concentrations
Research and monitoring

Habitats found in this site
Wetland
Woodland
Grassland

Ownership
State