You are leaving the scrub shrub area and approaching the cattail marsh (leaving one habitat for another). At this point, you can appreciate the size of the dam holding Paris Lake in place. Remember your orientation perspective from the top of the dam.

Look toward the now invisible lake whose water surface is high above you. Listen to the many bird sounds. Notice how they land sideways, grasping and swinging on the tall cattail stalks.

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The red-winged blackbird builds its nest among these stalks. Dragonflies are numerous. A very large anthill is in view. Watch for animal tracks (deer, raccoon, etc.) in exposed mud.