Birding Site Guide to Poague (Haysler A) CA Printable Site Guide POAGUE (HAYSLER A.) CONSERVATION AREA Edge Wade, 2011 879 acres Henry Co. DeLorme 35, I-7 GPS: 38.4212884435,-93.8538182269 MDC owned; for information call 660-885-6981 Directions: From Clinton, go 4 miles west on MO 7 to the entrance on the right at a roadside park. When to Visit/Species to Expect: Spring and summer for nesting raptors and passerines; autumn and winter for waterfowl. This underbirded area could hold many surprises. Mississippi Kites were found here in 2009. Northern Bobwhite and Wild Turkey are pesent. Features of interest to birders: This is an abandoned coal strip mine area. There are 14 deep water-filled strip pits, ranging from 2 to 11 acres, and wetlands, surrounded by forest (mostly oak-hickory, sycamore, and some pines). Nine parking areas provide bases for roadside birding and for exploration into the interior on foot. A turn to the left after the entrance leads to two parking areas near pools 13 and 14 along the west side of the area. Staying right, the road goes along the southern portion, with short roads on the left leading toward several pits. The road angles northeast, and after the junction with CR NW 351, goes north along an abandoned railroad bed on the right and gives good views of Pool 1 on the left. Toilets: None Camping: Along roads and in parking lots Hazards/Limitations: These unreclaimed strip mine lands are comprised of many steep slopes and deep pits. There are no designated trails. Paths may be treacherous. Nearby Birding Sites: Fewel (Connor O.) CA, numerous sites associated with Truman Reservoir, Urich CA.