The False River is a 12-mile 3,600-acre oxbow lake occupied by the nearby Mississippi River’s main channel until the turn of the 18th century.
False River Park offers a convenient place to park and enjoy birding. Over 160 species of birds have been recorded here. Naturally, waterfowl rank high on the list of all birders visiting during the winter months. Over 20 species of ducks and geese have been tallied at False River, including uncommon divers such as Greater Scaup, Common Goldeneye, and Bufflehead. Pied-billed, Horned, and Eared Grebes have also been observed. Western Grebe has been recorded here as well in early spring.
Other waterbirds of interest include Black-necked Stilt, American Avocet, Spotted Sandpiper, Bonaparte’s, Laughing, Ring-billed, and Herring Gulls, as well as Least, Caspian, Black, and Forster’s Terns and American White Pelican.
Woodpeckers and songbirds commonly encountered in the trees surrounding False River include Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Loggerhead Shrike, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Savannah Sparrow, Yellow-rumped Warbler, and Northern Cardinal.
False River is a popular recreational destination for many south Louisianians. Colorful fishing camps line its shores. Water skiing and sailing are also popular outdoor activities here.
