Bird lovers, photographers, painters en plein air, outdoor recreationists, walkers and wanderers might like to know about a new overlook constructed earlier this year at the Shohola Waterfowl Area in Shohola, PA. The railed deck provides a sweeping view of Shohola Lake and an opportunity to observe many species of waterfowl.

The site is located within PA State Game Lands 180 (SGL 180), which includes more than 11,500 acres spanning four Pike County townships. Shohola Lake and Marsh, described as “the jewel of this game lands,” totals 909 acres.

According to the PA Game Commission (PGC), the game lands are within Important Bird Area 61, and are home to at least 88 breeding bird species, including golden-winged warblers, bald eagles, osprey and more.

In addition to the wide variety of bird species, SGL 180 provides habitat for wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, black bear, wild turkey, ruffed grouse, bobcat, fishers, river otters and beavers, as well as various reptiles, amphibians, fish, insects and more.

The marshy lake is an important stopover location for many waterfowl species.

The mid-20th century saw a sharp decline in bald eagle populations, due to pesticides, persecution and habitat loss. The PGC imported 88 eaglets during the years 1983 to 1989, and raised the birds in two hacking towers; this aided in the recovery of the species.

Shohola Lake played a vital role in Pennsylvania’s Bald Eagle Restoration Program, because one of the towers was located on the north end of the lake.

The new overlook can be found by taking PA State Route 6 to the main road through the Shohola Wildlife Area. Follow that to the second boat-launch parking area. There you’ll see a gate, which is open during certain hunting seasons throughout the year. If open, continue through the gate, turning at the first gravel road to the left and following it to its conclusion at the deck, where there is ample parking.

If the gate is locked, enjoy a pleasant walk instead.

Bring your binoculars, brushes or lenses, and see what there is to spot across the water or along the marshy edges. And don’t forget to wear orange on state game lands!

Visit www.pgc.pa.gov for additional information.