About the Area
Atlanta Conservation Area is a mosaic of gently rolling oak-hickory forest, woodland edge, and grassland. The area also contains three ephemeral marshes, several natural oxbow lakes, and a few dozen small ponds. The East Fork of the Little Chariton River runs through the northwest portion of the Long Branch Tract, which includes the upper reaches of Long Branch Lake. Long Branch Creek runs through the eastern side of the area. Jupiter Avenue runs north to south through the area, dividing it in half. Side roads extending off of Jupiter end in parking lots where you can get out and walk the field roads through the various habitats. As you explore the area, you’ll notice well-managed woodlands, native grasses, and few, if any, invasive plants in sight. The birding is good year-round, especially during migration. In the marsh areas, look for Green Heron, Sora, and Common Snipe. You may see Belted Kingfisher and Northern Harrier hunting low over the grassy fields and marsh as well.
The northern segments of Long Branch Lake extend into Atlanta, providing waterfowl and waterbird viewing. There is a viewing platform on the west shore of the lake on Inboard Place off of State Hwy O. There are also many other lots along the lake where you can park and set up a spotting scope. Look for dabbling ducks, diving ducks, geese, loons, grebes, and pelicans. Bald Eagles are seen throughout the year.
In the grassland areas, look for Grasshopper and Henslow’s Sparrow, Dickcissel, and Eastern Meadowlark. As you get closer to the forest edge, listen for Yellow-breasted Chat, flycatchers, Brown Thrasher, and Red-headed Woodpecker. In the forest, look for more flycatchers, vireos, wood warblers, orioles, and tanagers.
South of Kirksville about 20 miles and north of Macon about 10 miles, exit onto MO-J. Turn south on MO-RA, which leads into the area. Take a left onto Justice Rd. to find the first of many parking lots on the area.
You are not even 10 miles north of Macon, which has many local restaurants and cafes to choose from. If your travels take you north, stop in Kirksville. Kirksville, home of Truman State University, is the largest town in the Northeast region. Kirksville has many nice options for food and lodging, and plenty of things to do after your day of birding. Try looking through a super-sized spotting scope at the Del and Norma Robison Planetarium. History buffs in your group will enjoy visiting the Adair County Historical Society.
Atlanta Conservation Area is near three large lakes: Long Branch Lake, Thomas Hill Reservoir, and Macon City Lake. These large lakes pull in thousands of migratory waterfowl and shorebirds every year. The woodland and grassland areas surrounding these lakes offer diversity to your birding experience.