Northwest Indiana Birding Opportunities - Beverly D. Crone Restoration Area

Beverly D. Crone Restoration Area is a former landfill on the south side of South Bend consisting of 111 acres.

The site provides ideal habitat for a variety of grassland species. What Crone Restoration Area lacks in quantity, it more than makes up for in quality. Local birders have found this to be a hot spot for normally hard-to-find species such as Henslow’s Sparrow, Sedge Wren, Dickcissel and Eastern Meadowlark. During breeding season these species are vocal and easy to observe.

Other grassland species that can be found include Grasshopper Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Vesper Sparrow, Bobolink and American Kestrel. Keep an eye out for Sandhill Cranes and Wild Turkeys feeding in the agricultural fields to the east. Rarities including Blue Grosbeak and Merlin have also been seen. During the winter months, Rough-legged Hawks are occasionally spotted perched in the eastern tree line.

The area is easily birded from a gravel trail that loops around the edge of the grassland. A cross-trail cuts through the center of the grasslands.

eBird Hotspot Link:
ebird.org/hotspot/L335435

Total Birding Time: Dusk to Dawn

Best Times to Bird:  Mid-June through August

SOUTH BEND WEATHER

Address:
Beverly D. Crone Restoration Area
21448 Jackson Rd
South Bend, IN 46614
South of Ireland Rd. at the intersection of Linden Rd. and Jackson Rd. west of U.S. 31, South Bend.
Hours: Dusk to Dawn
Ownership: St. Joseph County Board of Commissioners holds title to the land. It is jointly managed by the Department of Public Works and the St. Joseph County Parks.
Admission: Free 
Restrictions:  Pets must be on leash. Please obey all rules and regulations 
Parking: Small parking areas are located at the corner of Jackson and Linden Roads on the east end of the property and near the corner of Jackson and Locust Roads at the west end of the property.
Nearby Amenities: None on site. Restaurants and other facilities are located on Ireland Rd. a few miles to the east.
Accessibility: Gravel walking trail.
Website: sjcparks.org
Phone Number: (574) 277-4828

Written by: Jim Spier
Photo by: Carol Goodall