Cay Creek

from Southern Tides August 2020

Sea Turtle Returns

Cay

By Amy Thurman

Liberty County, Ga. has a rich history (including two signers of the Declaration of Independence) and some of the most lovely spots on our coast. One such place is Cay Creek Wetlands Interpretive Center, just off Highway 84, a mile east of I-95 (exit 76).

This wetland park sits on the site of a former plantation, owned by Richard Cay, alongside Cay Creek (previously known as Salter’s Creek). The property was later owned by Union Camp Corporation; it was purchased in 1996 by the City of Midway and the wetlands park was created for visitors to learn more about our coastal environment.

Six unique ecosystems can be viewed along a ¾-mile boardwalk and from a wildlife viewing platform. The boardwalk meanders through upland forests, open wetlands, freshwater tidal swamp, brackish marsh, and ends at a tidal creek. It’s lined with interpretive panels that describe the ecosystems and the plants and animals you might see along the way.

The site also includes picnic tables and occasional benches. It makes for a beautiful, peaceful and educational stroll when you have an hour or two and want to stretch your legs a bit.

For more info, visit: coastalwildscapes.org/Cay-Creek

CREEK

Resurrection ferns thriving on the trunks of live oaks. The boardwalk makes for an easy stroll while protecting the surrounding habitat.

Above: Duckweed lines the surface of this freshwater wetland area. The plentiful foliage is a favorite spot for butterflies and other pollinators.

Below: Sit a spell and enjoy the peaceful setting. Although the temperature was over 90, it was surprisingly cool in this spot. I saw frogs, lizards, turtles and birds while sitting quietly for a bit.

Above: From this wildlife viewing platform you can see both forest and marsh. Countless bird species were visible.

Below: Looking northwest on Cay Creek, from the overlook at the end of the boardwalk. It's easy to imagine what life might have been like before being manipulated by progress.

How well do you know the plants found frequently in lowcountry habitats? Test your knowledge with these, all found in Cay Creek wetland park. Thanks to John “Crawfish” Crawford, our Southern Tides Naturalist, and Amy Schuler with Coastal Wildscapes, for identifying the various species presented here! Answers on page 16.