Marcy Woods 2006

MarcyMay06 Earl Plato
We stopped to listen for the forest birds. Instead we heard the Chorus frogs, Spring peepers and then the “chucking’ sounds of the little Wood frog in the Marcy pond. No sound of the American toads or the ‘baaing’ of the Fowler’s toad. Maybe another time. Marcy Woods is bird country especially during migration times. We reached the cabin and took a break. Now we would take the Upper Trail and be on the lookout for birds. Some saw Turkey vultures soaring overhead. Two Red-tailed hawks were spotted. We heard the beautiful calls of the White-throated sparrow and then a moment later saw two Red-bellied woodpeckers. Yes, in the distance to the north came that powerful hammering sounds of the Pileated woodpecker. There was a Hermit thrush wagging its tail. Some identified a Yellow-bellied sapsucker, a Brown creeper, and a White breasted nuthatch. The place is filled with birds. The calls of Blue jays and crows echoed throughout the woods. In the vale below a red fox had been seen. Young ones around? We think so. We crossed the bridge and descended the steps on our way out. Someone pointed the budding in the wetlands of the beautiful Marsh marigolds. Soon they would be in full bloom and we would then return to Marcy Woods. Want to come along?”
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As founder of the Bert Miller Nature Club of Fort Erie I was one of a few members of that new club who sat at the table in the Marcy farm house that evening years ago. Dr. George Marcy wanted the property protected permanently. He was excited about the Bert Miller Club members becoming responsible stewards of what he then called Abino Woods now affectionately named Marcy Woods. George Marcy died too soon. The years have passed and the property was purchased by the Canadian DiCienzo family. This is still private property but I have met with the DiCienzos.. Their wish is to preserve the forested sand dunes and the forest as the Marcys wished. Dino Jr. has allowed me and others to take organized walks in the Woods along the traditional trails. Work on the steps and railings by Dino Sr. and his work crew this Wednesday, May 3rd is finished. A great job. All three trails are opened now - The Lower Trail, Little Hemlock Ridge Trail, and the Upper Trail. Thank you DiCienzos. St. Paul High School staff will walk the trails this Saturday and see a new Marcy Woods.