Walter B. Jacobs Memorial Nature Park

This keystone Shreveport-Bossier site is in a mature pine-oak-hickory forest that offers diverse plant and animal life. It is traversed by several trails, including boardwalks and one paved trail that provide access to the forested areas, a small meadow, two bayous, and several temporary vernal ponds.

Around 145 bird species have been recorded here. The diversity of forested habitats combined with a grassy meadow and powerline right-of-way, along with natural water features, host a diverse bird community year-round. During late winter, it is possible to view three nuthatch species–White-breasted, Red-breasted, and Brown-headed–a rare experience anywhere in Louisiana. Some of the more sought-after breeding species include Eastern Wood-Pewee, Acadian Flycatcher, Louisiana Waterthrush, and Yellow-breasted Chat, among numerous others. Expectedly, spring and fall migration periods provide outstanding activity by neotropical songbirds (vireos, thrushes, warblers, tanagers, etc.). Winter months are excellent for sparrows in the grassy meadow and along the powerline right-of-way. 

An Interpretive Center with restrooms, a drinking fountain, a pavilion, and a professional staff of interpreters are all located on this site. Offers Programs & Activities include summer theater, nature art shows, decoy carving, and various natural history programs. There are hiking trails, and self-guided and guided tours are available. Much of the facility is handicap accessible.