West Taylor Wildlife Area
West Taylor Wildlife Area is a 178-acre property located southwest of Taylor in western Jackson County. Access points can be found along Rabbit Run Road and Hamilton Road. Take Highway 95 to River Road, which turns into Rabbit Run.
Management
History
This property was first purchased in the early 1960s with the acquisition of 98 acres. Later, in 2000, an additional 80 acres was purchased, almost doubling the size of the property.
Management Objective
This property is located within the heavier soils of Jackson County and was primarily farmed or grazed historically. However, 40 acres of marsh land did provide good wintering habitat for pheasants, which was the main reason for the initial purchase. Pine plantation and oak regeneration have allowed for a return to a forested landscape of oaks and pines with some open grasslands.
Sound forestry management and age rotation are used to harvest timber when in the best interest of the timber resource providing a healthy forest and quality habitat for wildlife.
Visit the property planning for more information on master planning for this and other wildlife areas around the state.
Recreation
The West Taylor Wildlife Area offers many recreational opportunities:
- Birding
- Cross-country skiing (no designated trail)
- Hiking (no designated trail)
- Hunting (noted for deer and turkey)
- Trapping
- Wild edibles/gathering
- Wildlife viewing
Amenities
- Bathroom - none.
- Parking lot - yes.
- Campground and size - none.
- Trails, Types and Lengths - non-designated only.
Maps
Download [PDF] a map of this property.
If you are interested in exploring this property further, you can access an interactive map.
