Sometimes it is the simple things that matter most. Which is why The Nature Conservancy focused its attention on the Eldora Preserve. Back in 1872, it was a farm, but as it turns out, this 250 acre preserve is a hotbed of activity for rare species of moths. So rare, in fact, that it became TNC’s first ever preserve dedicated to protecting the little critters.
Lace up a good pair of hiking boots and follow the marked trails that cut through meadows, salt and cat tail marshes, pine-oak woodlands and upland fields. Before you pack anything else, pack your binoculars because you’ll want to get a good look at everything there. And there is lots to see.
Bald eagles float around like they owned the place. Which they do, sort of. During migrations times you can spot songbirds and in the fall, if you want to practice your raptor-watching skills, this is the time and place to do it.
And then, of course there are the moths and butterflies. Keep your eyes open and you can spot the marbled underwing, rare skipper and precious underwing.
The New Jersey chapter of TNC is located in a restored farmhouse on the grounds that now houses a nature center where you can get more info about the preserve and the creatures that live there. Oh, and a gift shop, too.