Wildlife Encounters: Discover the Fauna of Caldera Springs

Nestled in the heart of nature, Caldera Springs offers a unique opportunity to witness the diverse wildlife of Central Oregon. From majestic elk to tiny hummingbirds, the area teems with fascinating creatures. To give our residents a helping hand, we’ve installed educational discovery point signs throughout our nine miles of private trails. Before you head out for a day of exploration, let’s embark on a virtual tour of the rich fauna that calls this place home.

Mammals: The Kings of the Forest

Mule Deer and Roosevelt Elk

The forests and meadows of Caldera Springs are home to two of the most iconic mammals of the Pacific Northwest: mule deer and Roosevelt elk. Mule deer, named for their large ears, can be spotted year-round, with some migrating to lower elevations in winter. The impressive Roosevelt elk, weighing up to 1,000 pounds, travel in herds and are a common sight, with about 60 elk residing in the area throughout the year.

Smaller Mammals

As you explore Caldera Springs, keep an eye out for the playful antics of raccoons and the adorable mountain cottontail. You might even catch a glimpse of the Western gray squirrel, Oregon’s largest tree squirrel and a sensitive species, or hear the chatter of the more common Douglas squirrel.

Birds: From Raptors to Hummingbirds

The skies above Caldera Springs are alive with a variety of bird species. Bald eagles soar majestically, their white heads and tails gleaming in the sun, while ospreys plunge into lakes and streams to catch fish with their strong talons. At dusk, the Great Horned Owl emerges, its deep hoots echoing through the forest as it scans the terrain for prey. Closer to the ground, barn swallows sweep over water, catching insects on the wing. For those with a keen eye, hummingbirds, including the feisty rufous and the larger Anna’s, can be spotted darting among flowers.

Amphibians and Reptiles: Hidden Gems

The wetlands and forests provide perfect habitats for a variety of cold-blooded creatures. In spring, listen for the distinctive “ribbit” of the Pacific tree frog. If you’re lucky, you might spot the rare Oregon spotted frog, a threatened species that has found a sanctuary in Caldera Springs’ wetlands. On sunny rocks and logs, keep an eye out for Western skinks with their bright blue tails, or Western fence lizards doing push-ups to establish their territory.

Insects: The Unsung Heroes

Don’t overlook the smaller residents of Caldera Springs. Dragonflies, some of the fastest flying insects in the world, patrol the wetlands, their iridescent wings flashing in the sunlight. A diverse array of native bees and butterflies play crucial roles in pollination, ensuring the health and diversity of the local plant life.

Conservation Efforts

Caldera Springs is committed to preserving its rich biodiversity. The 220-acre Wildlife Forest Preserve serves as a crucial corridor for animals, connecting to national forests and providing safe passage for a variety of species. The Caldera Links golf course follows Audubon International guidelines for environmental management, balancing recreational use with habitat preservation. To support the area’s 11 bat species, bat boxes have been installed throughout the preserve, providing these important insect-eaters with safe roosting sites.

Tips for Wildlife Watching

When setting out to observe the wildlife of Caldera Springs, keep in mind that dawn and dusk are the best times to spot many animals. Bring binoculars to observe birds and distant mammals, and remember to stay quiet and move slowly to avoid startling wildlife. It’s crucial never to feed wild animals or approach them too closely, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and potentially put both you and the animals at risk. If you’re interested in supporting local wildlife from home, consider planting native flowers in your garden to attract pollinators and provide food for hummingbirds.

Whether you’re an avid naturalist or a casual observer, the area’s rich fauna provides endless opportunities for discovery and appreciation of the natural world. So grab your camera, pack your binoculars, and set out to explore the wild side of Caldera Springs.