By CINDY LADAGE
Illinois Correspondent

CYPRESS, Ill. — Some lands just won’t be tamed; the Cache River Wetlands is one. These mystical wetlands are home to an array of natural resources that boggles the mind.

The wetlands are comprised of a vast half-million acres that stretch across southern Illinois from the Ohio River on the east to the Mississippi on the west. As part of the Mississippi Flyway – one of four primary bird migratory routes in the country as spring approaches – birds take flight and descend on this magical area.

While not considered farmable, the region is rich in natural resources allowing visitors to see types of land usually reserved for the Louisiana Bayou. And on April 30, the Cache River Nature Fest will take place at the Wetland Center, at 8885 State Route 37 S. in Cypress.

Carol Hoffman of the Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau said, “The center will be open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with programs and exhibits, and hands-on activities for kids and live animals to touch and look at up close. Audubon members and resource staff will be available to offer birding tips and staff will be on hand to provide area information. Guided canoe tours and nature hikes will be offered.
“The area supports a diverse mixture of natural areas: forests, grasslands, wetlands, shallow lakes and streams, as well as cypress-tupelo swamps. The swamps are reminiscent of what one would see much further South, like in Louisiana, Georgia or Florida. Because of the amazing diversity of natural areas found in the region, the Cache River Basin has earned state, federal and international recognition.

“The basin is also one of four primary migratory bird routes in North America; as a result, it plays a crucial role in sustaining migratory birds that use the Mississippi Flyway,” she added.

Visitors will see what the woodland was like centuries ago. Staff will also be available at the Wetlands Center to answer questions and provide information about the area throughout the day.

Hoffman explained, “The event is an exciting chance for people of all ages to celebrate the arrival of spring. Guided wildflower, bird, butterfly and insect hikes, as well as canoe tours in the swamp, are merely some of the outdoor opportunities to experience the beauty of the region.”

This event offers the exciting chance to see hummingbird banding, and in the afternoon, join staff from the Free-Again Wildlife to view owls, hawks and falcons.

“Professional naturalist staff will introduce visitors to these birds of prey and highlight the natural history of each,” Hoffman said. “This program will also focus on current issues facing raptors in the wild.”

View the award-winning 12-minute film “The Enduring Cache” or tour the amazing exhibits to learn about the people and place called the “Cache.” For more details, log on to www.cacherivernaturefest.org or call 800-248-4373.