Preservation Parks of Delaware County

Emily Traphagen Preserve

Not my Nest?

Male Cowbird

The Brown-headed Cowbird is North America’s most common “brood parasite.”

A female cowbird makes no nest of her own, but instead lays her eggs in the nests of other bird species, who then raise the young cowbirds.

Emily Traphagen Preserve resulted from the desire of Dr. Donald Traphagen to memorialize his wife Emily, through the preservation of the property she loved. By donating a large portion of the cost of the property, he was instrumental in helping Preservation Parks protect an oasis of open space in the midst of rampant development.

Facts

72 acres of mixed habitat, including woods, wetlands, pond and meadows
Opened in 2003
Hours of operation: 7:30-Dusk.

Facilities

Picnic Area
Restroom
Drinking Water
Playground
Trails *
* Leashed dogs are allowed on these trails, but you must clean up after your pets. “Mutt mitts” are provided at the kiosk to assist you in the clean up.

Future Plans

Additional Trails
Picnic Shelters
Expanded Playground
Multi-use Facility

Trails at Emily Traphagen

Whitetail Loop - Beginning near the picnic area, the 1/2 mile loop winds through a wetland woods, then traverses a meadow on an elevated gravel trail where wetlands are evident during certain times of the year. Along the trail, you will see many trees on the ground which have succumbed to age, insect infestation or weather. Be on the lookout for a red-tailed hawk’s nest, a barred owl and deer, as well as deer beds in the meadow grass. Sightings of meadowlarks are also possible. The pond overlook branches off this trail.
Approximate walking time: 20 minutes.

Pond Overlook - 1/10 mile mulched trail leads to a bench overlooking a pond and wood duck boxes. In addition to wood ducks, you may see mallards, kingfishers and great blue herons.
Approximate walking time: 5 minutes.

Preservation Parks of Delaware County | 2656 Hogback Road | Sunbury, Ohio 43074 | 740-524-8600 | Fax: 740-524-8200