Birding map in central Iowa highlights 22 trails

From the Des Moines Register:

Bird-watchers are not just eccentrics wearing funny hats. They are increasing in number faster than bald eagles and spend plenty of money.

Wildlife officials aim to lure more birders to Central Iowa with a new bird trail map and posted signs at each location listed in the guide.

"It's happening all over the country; we're now approaching 400 U.S. bird trails," said Doug Harr, Iowa Department of Natural Resource's wildlife diversity coordinator. "A number of these trails led to an economic boon, especially in rural areas."

A source in the article says Iowa has more gulls than New Jersey. Truly?

You can see The Makoke Trail, a 32-page PDF, here.