Original story by the Associated Press, posted by Oneida Daily Dispatch

Oct. 27, 2014

SENECA FALLS, N.Y. (AP) — The Seneca Meadows Wetlands Preserve in central New York has been designated an Important Bird Area.

The Important Bird Area program is an international bird conservation initiative that identifies the most important places for birds and conserving them.

Important Bird Areas are identified according to standardized, scientific criteria through collaboration among conservation organizations, state and federal agencies, academics, and birders.

The 1,100-acre Seneca Meadows Wetlands Preserve in Seneca Falls is permanently protected through a conservation easement. It has a range of upland savanna and tall grass prairie and includes 7 miles of walking and biking trails.

Audubon New York says the preserve is a haven for breeding Pied-billed Grebe and American and Least Bitterns and wintering Short-eared Owls. It supports many grassland birds including Bobolink, Savannah Sparrow, and Northern Harrier.