Clapper rails skulk along the edges of waterways, moving in and out of the marsh grasses. Watch for ducklings in water along the Wildlife Drive. Along the Drive, look for white daisies and pink smartweed. The broad leaves at the base of common mullein are easy to spot. With mating season past, many male ducks shed their colorful courtship feathers to mimic camouflage colors of the females.
Wildlife observation requires patience and quiet.
During July, shorebirds are breeding and raising young. A patient observer may see fuzzy gray willet chicks and their parents foraging in wetlands along the Wildlife Drive. On the refuge, this year's peregrine falcon chicks are practicing their flying skills. Observe their first attempts to catch prey. Parent birds still provide food until chick skills improve.