Volant Strips
submitted by Richard Nugent

The Volant Strips is a large area of former strip mines (surface mines), which are mainly grass with a scattering of shrubs and small trees. Over the last 10 years or so, some of this area has been used for hay, corn and other crops. Some land has been developed for housing and commercial purposes and some of it is "for sale" as lots. In spite of this development it is still good habitat for grassland birds including Eastern Meadowlark, Bobolink, Horned Lark, Northern Harrier, American Kestrel, Savannah Sparrow, Field Sparrow, Henslow's Sparrow, Grasshopper Sparrow, Rough-legged Hawk and Short-eared Owl. This is private land and birding should be done from the roads. A scope is highly desirable.

Directions: From Pittsburgh take I-79 north to Exit 105 (SR 108). Turn right (west) on SR 108 and go about 3.6 miles to US 19. Turn right (north) on US 19 and drive about 5.6 miles to Black Road. Turn right on Black Road, which leads into the middle of the Volant Strips.