Mulholland Wildflower Preserve
This wildflower preserve along Six Mile Creek is included because it is a known locality, close to the Cornell campus, for seeing Louisiana Waterthrush. This species is one of the first warblers to return in the springtime, with the first individuals arriving back in the Basin in mid-April. While its Northern cousin prefers habitats with still water, the Louisiana Waterthrush is found only along fast-flowing streams, making it one of the characteristic birds of the many gorges in the Ithaca area. To find Louisiana Waterthrushes at Mulholland, follow the trail from the parking lot, heading upstream along the creek. In breeding season (April to late June), at least one pair of birds should be found along the stretch of stream between the parking area and the dam upstream. Listen for the waterthrush's loud song and loud, distinctive call, and keep your eyes open for birds flying up and down the stream. To reach the Mulholland Wildflower Preserve:
From the intersection of College Ave. and Dryden Rd. in Collegetown, take College Ave. downhill until it meets Mitchell Street. Turn right onto Mitchell, and proceed straight (for a very short distance) to the stop sign. Turn left onto Rt. 79 East (E. State Street), and proceed on Rt. 79 to the third street on your right (Water Street). Turn right on Water Street and follow the street downhill to its end. Turn right at the end of Water Street, and the entrance to Mulholland Wildflower Preserve will almost immediately be on your left.
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