Bird Observation Tower Project
The Wanderland Society is proudly sponsoring the construction of a new 3 story Bird Observation Tower. “The Birds Nest,” will have two interpretive signs. The first of these panels will reference one of our regular visitors, Picoides borealis (the red-cockaded woodpecker) and the importance of supporting wildlife by keeping woodlands like those at Wanderland mostly wild. Panel 1 will also have a QR code where visitors will be encouraged to observe like naturalists and then submit their photos, videos, and/or personal experiences with wildlife at Wanderland. Panel 1 would include our acknowledgements of the State Wildlife Action Plan and DNR’s support. Panel 2 will elaborate upon high-elevation oak woodlands which comprise over 80% of the terrain at Wanderland. The second panel will also show images of flora and fauna that make up the community of this habitat.
We hope that The “Birds Nest,” while providing immersive viewing opportunities of high-elevation oak woodlands, will serve as a stop on our once-monthly naturalist walks.
Ultimately this deck will serve as a multifunctional stopping point within our trail system, while steadfastly providing an immersive view of the forest. This would be invaluable in helping us to achieve our mission of providing life-changing experiences and spreading a love of the outdoors to new and underserved audiences. We intend to become a hotspot for educational and exciting workshops that emphasize connection to nature and sustainable living skills.
The three-level bird’s nest will be 26ft tall. The ground floor is open space. Visitors or small class groups can take shelter from the rain while they check out the strategically positioned educational signs. The diameter of the nest is 16ft, with ten 9ft observation windows on the middle floor. These windows will be made of functional blinds.
There is an additional 6 ft of open air observation space on the roof of the observation tower, the ‘nesting’ design of the third level will serve as a guardrail. The upper levels of the tower will offer immersive wildlife viewing year-round, as well as excellent winter ridgeline viewing. The program is sponsored in part by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
