Before Indiana was settled, parts of Benton, Tippecanoe, and Warren counties, were vegetated in prairie grasses that extended here from the Great Plains in what is known as the “Prairie Bulge.” Our Wildlife Habitat Recreation Area protects and preserves the prairie habitat and the rest of the flora and fauna that is native to the area.

Animal Life
The Wildlife Habitat Recreation Area is home to a variety of birds, mammals, insects, reptiles, fish, and amphibians.

We try to preserve a healthy habitat for wildlife while allowing the public to enjoy the beauty of Central Indiana. Each year, we participate in the Audubon Christmas Bird Count and North American Butterfly Association Butterfly Count, and we maintain 60 bluebird boxes. Click on the link below to discover specific information about each species sited in the habitat.

Animals found in WHRA

Plant Life
When establishing the habitat, we included plants that were native to Indiana prairies. The most impressive display is in the butterfly garden on the Black Trail. Clicking the link below will open lists of flowers typically blooming each month. This is by no means a complete list of the plants that can be found in the habitat, so watch for future updates and new links.

Plants found in WHRA

Additional Links

National Audubon Society
North American Butterfly Association
Purdue University - Entomology Department
Wildlife Habitat Council
US Department of Agriculture - Plants Database