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Between the old stone walls and winding back into the woods is the path of the Tulip Tree Woods Nature Preserve Trail. These woods were the second ever Nature Preserve established in the state of Delaware, in 1972. They get their name from the giant Tulip Poplar trees that grow here.
The status of Nature Preserve means that this stand of woods is protected by us, forever. Not only do the trees grow, but the other important parts of a forest are able to thrive here. All sorts of wildlife are able to have a safe and healthy habitat here. From deer and foxes to chipmunks and turtles, and of course many birds.
When visiting the Nature Preserve, it is especially important to stay on the trail so as not to disturb important ground cover plants, and to practice Leave No Trace.
Tulip Trees are recognizable by their distinct, deeply grooved vertical bark. As well as their remarkably straight and tall trunks. Inside the dense forest, they do not branch and have leaves until quite far in the air. The leaves are distinct as well, often refereed to by park staff as 'cartoon cat face shaped', they are also found on staff uniforms as the DE State Parks logo alongside the state insect: the 7 spotted ladybug.
Big Old Trees and The Young Little Trees
Big Old Trees and The Young Little Trees
The largest and likely oldest poplar in Tulip Tree Woods was measured by George Fieo in 2010 at 15'11" (circumference) x 122.3' (height)!
The sapling-shrub woodlands here at the Park are young forests on the way to becoming mature forests. As these woodlands grow up, the kinds of plants and animals that live there will change.
Over time, there will be fewer grasses, wildflowers and shrubs, and more tall trees. There will be fewer open sunny patches as tree branches fill the sky. Right now, however, the woodlands have many different kinds and ages of trees, and lots of shrubs that produce seeds and berries. All this provides food and shelter to a very diverse wildlife population.
Reflecting on the Trail
Reflecting on the Trail
An old growth forest is a special habitat. Walking through a forest with huge trees is very different than just taking a hike in the woods. The old forest makes you feel different. There is a sense of awe, almost reverence, being among the trees that have lived for so long.
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