Coffee Creek Preserve

05/12/2026

Did you know the Preserve is helping protect bumble bees?

We take part in a regional monitoring program to track which bumble bee species call our land home. Every observation helps scientists better understand how these important pollinators are doing over time.

One species we’re especially watching for is the endangered rusty-patched bumble bee (Bombus affinis). The data we collect plays a small but meaningful role in supporting its recovery.

Next time you’re on the trails, keep an eye out—you might spot one of these busy pollinators in action! 🌼🐝

Learn more about this special little bee at https://www.fws.gov/project/rusty-patched-bumble-bee-conservation

Photo credit: Creative Commons - Wikimedia

04/29/2026

Coyotes are present in the Preserve, although sightings are uncommon. When they do occur, they often lead to concern, especially when the animal's behavior is unfamiliar.

In most cases, what people observe falls within normal coyote behaviors. Coyotes may be active any time of day and may watch from a distance, move through open areas, or appear briefly along a trail before disappearing in the trees.

We included some tips from Project Coyote in the photos about what to do if you are escorted by a coyote.

Dogs and Coyotes: https://projectcoyote.org/pro.../dogs-and-coyotes-factsheet/
More resources: https://projectcoyote.org/.../downlo.../articles-factsheets/

04/22/2026

Early spring flowers are emerging across the Preserve!

In wooded areas, low-growing plants are taking advantage of the light available before the tree canopy fills in. In open areas, new growth is happening too, thanks to changing light and moisture conditions.

Keep an eye out on the edges of the trails and boardwalks for new patches of green and colorful wildflowers.

04/16/2026

We have some unfortunate news to share about the beautiful snowy owl who captured so many hearts in our area. Reports say the owl was found after a fatal accident involving power lines. It was a rare and special visitor, and many of us were grateful for the chance to see it. We’re hoping its presence inspired even more care for wildlife and the spaces they depend on. 💔

https://nwitimes.com/news/local/article_35571d85-6caa-4f72-ac01-0e4a69bd94b4.html

A snowy owl from the Arctic that drew large crowds of birders, photographers and families to the Popeyes and Culver's in Chesterton for weeks died by electrocution, Humane Indiana Wildlife

04/15/2026

The Preserve has received quite a lot of rain over the past several weeks. The effects are visible across nearly every part of the landscape.

Both wetlands and Coffee Creek itself have been carrying more water than usual. Because the trails often follow and cross the creek, the water level can influence how water moves across the trail system. That means you may notice pools of water and some muddy trails. So be sure to leave your new white tennis shoes at home!

When boardwalks are repaired or replaced, these conditions are taken into consideration, with the goal of reducing flooding along frequently used trail sections while allowing the landscape to function as it should.

If you walk the Preserve this week, notice where water collects, where it recedes, and how the creek interacts with the surrounding land. These changes help define the character of the Preserve and how we manage it.

Photo credit: Smith Donovan

03/18/2026

Wondering how to safely and respectfully view an owl? Check out this post with some great tips.

Audubon Society kindly asks folks to respect the Snowy Owl at Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve

Being something of a birder, the Chesterton Public Affairs Liaison took a drive through the Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve late Tuesday afternoon, March 17, in the hope of catching sight of the Snowy Owl which—since first spotted—has become a Duneland Social Media Star.

The PAL—who after all is something but not much of a birder—had no luck but is delighted for those fortunate enough to have spent a few minutes with the Snowy, one of the great owls of the world.

Dunes-Calumet Audubon Society and Humane Indiana Wildlife are both encouraging folks, if they have an opportunity, to see the Snowy for themselves—a once-in-a-lifetime thrill for most Hoosiers—yet please be sure to give the bird plenty of space.

“Dunes-Calumet Audubon and Humane Indiana Wildlife have been monitoring the Snowy Owl for signs of stress or harm,” said Kim Ehn, president, Dunes-Calumet Audubon Society. “I would like to caution all photographers from entering the fields this owl may frequent. Large birds use a lot of energy when encroached by humans that could be spent eating and staying healthy.

“Today I had to call a photographer to remove herself from the field as she wanted a better picture with her zoom lens camera,” Ehn added. “Please stay on the pavement, roads, and parking areas, as they are already places of human impact.”

In an article published in theDecember 2025 issue of Audubon Magazine—“An unexpected baby boom is bringing Snowy Owls south this winter”—reporter Caelan Beard made note of an irruption of Snowy Owls which was bringing them to areas of the U.S. where they haven’t recently been seen: Washington State, New York, Ohio, Iowa, Kentucky, and South Dakota.

And, of course, Indiana.

Beard added that it appears “a significant breeding event” in the Snowy Owl’s Arctic breeding grounds—caused by an abundant supply last summer of lemming, the bird’s primary prey item—has prompted younger Snowy Owls to push far south, “while older, more dominant individuals occupy prime Arctic habitat.”

A number of years ago a Snowy sheltered a day or two in a tree near the Duneland School Corporation’s bus barn.

03/18/2026

Our snowy friend is still in town! Have you seen it?

03/14/2026

Have you seen the snowy owl near the Preserve? 🦉

02/10/2026

Who else is taking advantage of the rare winter sun to visit the Preserve? If you’re a cross country skier or snowshoe user, this snow won’t last much longer!

01/21/2026

Snow softens the landscape, sounds carry farther, and the trails feel especially peaceful. If you visit, slow down and enjoy the quiet. Don’t worry, our birds and furry critters will be active again before you know it!