The 73-acre Wood Duck Nature Preserve of Opelika was created from a nutrient-rich intentional wetland owned by the city of Opelika, with an additional 7 acres of land including an old home-site. The park has become home to a significant population of birds, including a large population of wood ducks.
Entrances at the old home-site and at the roadway both provide access to ideal walking trails offering varied birding opportunities. The home-site trail follows a heavily wooded stream, terminating at one of the preserve's two observation blinds, overlooking open water. Early Blue-winged Teal were seen on a recent October visit. The trail accessed from the roadway is particularly bird-dense, and should be included in any birding visit to the area. Look for a vast array of wetland birds throughout the year. The stream/marsh is a major bird oasis, especially during dry periods. All but two warbler species found in Alabama have been seen in the park during spring migration.
Contact Wood Duck Nature Preserve of Opelika
Contact Wood Duck Nature Preserve of Opelika
3600 Waverly Pkwy
Opelika, AL 36801
Service Area
