Wolf Creek Wildlife Area

Wolf Creek Wildlife Area

Malta, Ohio 43758

Official Website
Wolf Creek Wildlife Area map

Also, see all the hotspots at:
Morgan County Birding Drive

Tips for Birding

In Morgan County, by far the best birding spot is Wolf Creek Wildlife Area. It has a small lake that often has waterfowl, grassland, and second-growth woodland, all within walking distance. .

Birds of Interest

Wood ducks are common on the ponds and streams. Canada geese are well established in the vicinity. Mallards, blue-winged teal, and other species of waterfowl and shorebirds occur occasionally, mostly as migrants. A rich variety of songbirds may be found in the area in association with the diverse mixture of habitat types.

This is a good place to look for Woodcocks in the early spring

About this Location

This 3,911-acre wildlife area is nine miles southwest of McConnelsville and 11 miles northeast of Glouster along OH-78. The scenic rolling hills are dissected by Wolf Creek and several of its tributaries. Brushlands occupy approximately 15 percent of the area, open land 18 percent, and woodlands 66 percent, with wetlands and area ponds occupying less than one percent of the area. Most of the open lands are maintained in agricultural rotations through agreements with local farmers. Brushlands are selectively managed to be maintained in old field conditions. Stands of oaks and hickories dominate the drier woodland sites. Maple, beech, elm, and ash are most common on the lower slopes and along streams.

Initial land purchases began in 1947 for the construction of a public fishing lake. The newly created dam, impounding a 152-acre lake, was destroyed by a flash flood in 1950. Because restoration of the dam was impractical, the area has been expanded to its current size and managed principally for forest wildlife species.

Management work has included the improvement of existing woodlands through timber harvest, selective maintenance of shrubby coverts and permanent grasslands, and management of open land by agricultural cropping.

Hunting and fishing are the major recreational uses. Popular secondary uses include berry picking, nature study, photography, and hiking.

Cottontail rabbit, white-tailed deer, gray squirrel, ruffed grouse, and wild turkey are the wildlife species most sought, with hunters showing an interest in fox squirrel, woodcock, and woodchuck as well. Beaver are abundant along Wolf Creek and its tributaries. All furbearers common to the region may be found in the area.

OH-78 from the Wolf Creek Wildlife Area south towards Burr Oak State Park is known as the “Rim of the World.” During the fall, spectacular views of fall foliage may be observed to the west from the roadway.

Several parking lots are available for public use.

No restroom facilities.

Features

  • Restrooms on site

Content from Official Website and Margaret Bowman