The Opelika Wood Duck Heritage Preserve and Siddique Nature Park, a restored habitat for migratory and local birds, is a popular destination for birders and residents who have a common interest in wildlife preservation. It is one of the 34 sites along the Piedmont Plateau Birding Trail.
About the Preserve
This 85-acre preserve and park has been made possible by the use of a 78-acre waste water lagoon property owned by the city, combined with the private donation of seven acres of land adjacent to the lagoon site. The park has become home to a significant population of wood ducks and waterfowl. More than 170 species of birds have been identified at the Wood Duck Nature Park, including residents and those that pass though the Opelika community. It is home to a variety of habitats, including hardwood and pine forests, swamps and ponds.
Review of the Park by Kevin Beasley (Video)
Maintenance
The Wood Duck Nature Park is largely developed, maintained and protected through a partnership with the City of Opelika and the Friends of the Opelika Wood Duck Heritage Preservation and Siddique Nature Park, a 501(c)-3 non-profit organization that works to make the area a world-class safe haven for wildlife while providing educational and recreational opportunities to local residents and visitors.
Directions
From the intersection of U.S. Highway 280 and CR 97 (Grand National Parkway), travel East on U.S Highway 280.6 mile and turn left onto Waverly Parkway. Travel.5 mile to the entrance of the park on the left. The driveway entrance is between two sections of split rail fence. The entrance to the Nature Park leads to over two miles of heavily wooded trails that lead to the two viewing blinds overlooking the lagoon.
