 
The Macahan Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 2002, is eight acres of permanently protected land in Scottsburg, Indiana. At one time, this property was used for agriculture, but after 30 years of reforesting, there are mature stands of trees as well as healthy poles and saplings. The woodlands comprise a variety of trees including oaks, ash, locust, sycamore, sumac, tulip, walnut and elm. > “I want this property to be permanently protected,” said Nick Macahan when he first contacted the Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust. “And kept in its natural state.” Legally protected from commercial and recreational hunting and trapping by a conservation easement, wildlife thrive on the sanctuary. Deer, foxes, bats, voles, woodchucks – even mink – have lived here for generations. Squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, skunks, opossums and shrews find the food and shelter they need too. And of course the trees support a variety of birds as well. The woodlands are never quiet with warblers, woodpeckers, owls, turkeys, quail and hawks adding their calls to those of the many songbirds in the area. Although this sanctuary remains privately owned, the Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust has an obligation to perform periodic inspections to ensure that the wildlife habitat remains in good condition and that the terms of the conservation easements are being met. These inspections, and the handling of any destruction or violations, cost heavily in professional staff time, consultants, and travel expenses. In addition HSWLT needs a reserve of funds for the substantial legal fees needed if enforcement of violations involves court action. HSWLT has promised to protect this property as sanctuary forever -- and that promise will be kept. If you can help with the cost of stewardship for this and the other properties HSWLT protects, please donate here. » Learn which plants attract deer and which ones they avoid » Take a look at bats in this Wildlife Close-up » Consider volunteering at this or another wildlife sanctuary |
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