WILLOW CREEK — The Mattawamkeag River corridor has been officially designated as a stop on the Maine Birding Trail, joining a network of 120 sites across the state recognized for exceptional bird habitat and public access.
The designation, announced Nov. 1 by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and Maine Audubon, covers a 12-mile stretch of river habitat from the Homan’s Pond outlet north to the old logging dam. The corridor hosts more than 140 documented bird species, including the olive-sided flycatcher, yellow-bellied sapsucker, and American bittern.
Maine Audubon’s John Kress said the corridor was chosen for its diversity of habitats — riverine, wetland, mixed forest, and early-successional clearings — that support both resident and migratory birds.
“Mattawamkeag is one of the most under-birded rivers in the state,” Kress said. “That changes now.”
The designation includes $5,000 in signage funding and a listing in the official Maine Birding Trail guidebook and website. Julia Chen of Northwoods Outfitters said she has already fielded calls from birders in four states planning spring trips.
“The birding crowd is loyal and well-organized,” Chen said. “They travel with binoculars, guidebooks, and a willingness to spend money on lodging and meals.”
The town plans to install a kiosk and viewing bench at the Homan’s Pond trailhead, with construction expected next spring.