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Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is offering wildlife cruises aboard the Dixie Belle riverboat. (Clay Jackson / cjackson@amnews.com / May 2, 2012) |
PLEASANT HILL — Shaker Village once again is offering a unique wildlife experience: cruises on the Dixie Belle to the blue heron rookery.
“We are thrilled to offer this rare nature opportunity — wildlife cruises to the blue heron rookery — again this year,” said Aimee Darnell, publicist for Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.
Darnell said guests will cruise down the Kentucky River through a great blue heron rookery for an up-close view of a breeding colony during nesting season. The cruises will be led by an experienced birding authority.
“Blue herons are such spectacular creatures. How special it is to see them with their babies. It’s so neat to see those fuzzy little heads popping out of the nests,” said Darnell.
The rookery is not accessible by land. It was discovered by Dixie Belle captains Bruce and Richard Herring. Shaker Village wanted to offer the public a chance to see it, Darnell noted.
“Because Shaker Village is a nature preserve and has lots of bird enthusiasts and nature lovers who use the property, we thought it was a perfect fit,” she explained. “The view is amazing from the top deck. Make sure to bring your binoculars.”
An outdoor wildlife weekend package is available. Packages for two adults start at $204 and include an overnight stay at The Inn at Shaker Village, breakfast in the Trustees’ Office Dining Room, Wildlife Cruise to the Blue Heron Rookery, and Saturday guided nature hike with sack lunch.
SO YOU KNOW
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is offering wildlife cruises to the blue heron rookery again this year. Dates are 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. May 5, 12 and 19; cost is $40. Guests board the Dixie Belle and cruise down the river for an up-close look at a blue heron colony during nesting season. Reserve online at www.shakervillageky.org or call (800) 734-5611, ext. 1545. Space is limited. Advanced registration and non-refundable payment required.
An evening picnic cruise will be 6-8:30 p.m. June 2, which is Adventure Day at Shaker Village. An old-fashioned picnic aboard the boat is part of the event. Cost is $60.
