Louisiana Oil & Gas Park - Flyway Byway

The Flyway Byway is a scenic driving tour through Jeff Davis Parish in the heart of southwestern Louisiana’s rice country. The journey begins at the Louisiana Oil & Gas Park right off Interstate 10 (exit 64). More than 100 species of birds have been recorded at this park alone. 

The Flyway Byway winds through Jennings and Welsh, Louisiana, then dives south into agricultural landscapes surrounding birding hotspots.

The main birding action associated with this scenic byway is at the southern end of the route. Lorrain Park and Bridge – particularly its rice, marsh, and pasture-studded landscapes – and the Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge are featured as individually-recognized birding sites, making them must-see areas for serious birders. 

The town of Lake Arthur is set on the shore of a 1,500-acre freshwater lake of the same name. Many great birds can be viewed here. Winter waterfowl viewing is big, with nearly 20 species recorded, including the rare Ross’s Goose and Cackling Goose. Western Sandpiper, Long-billed Dowitcher, and Solitary Sandpiper lead the way for an impressive group of shorebirds observed here both during the winter months and during spring and fall migration periods. Wading birds grace the cypress-lined edges of the lake, including Anhinga, Snowy Egret, Little Blue and Tricolored Herons, White and White-faced Ibises, and Roseate Spoonbill – locally known as the “Cajun Flamingo.” 

For those wishing to sample some Cajun cooking and local charm along with their birds, great restaurants and shops in Lake Arthur (Park and Boardwalk) should not be missed. Here’s another fun fact. Gator Chateau at the Oil & Gas Park is a rehabilitation center for hand-raised orphaned alligators before being released back into the wild.