H.J. Ruiz – Avian101

In the early 1800s, the site where now is known as High Falls State Park was a prosperous industrial town with several stores, a grist mill, cotton gin, blacksmith shop, shoe factory and hotel. High Falls became a ghost town in the 1880s when a major railroad bypassed it. Today, park visitors can enjoy the scenic waterfall on the Towaliga River and hike to the remaining grist mill foundation. A campground, picnic areas and canoe rental are also available.

“In my last visit to the park, I spotted two Great Blue Hurons  fishing in the river. After a while of observing them eat some fish, their behavior  changed of a sudden and began doing some kind of dance while they waded the river at about 30 feet apart. They both opened and lowered their wings to the ground, with their heads pointing up they straightened their necks and teased their long feathers strangely.

The episode went on for about 10 minutes. Later they simply went their own separate ways. Was it a duel between males?, Perhaps a courtship dance between male and female? I have no idea what it was what I saw.

The area that this State Park  covers is 1,050 Acres that includes a 650-Acre Lake, a man-made cascade and natural falls. It is a great place to go camping, canoeing, swimming or simply for a picnic. Excellent place for photography too!”

All photographs are © H.J. Ruiz – “My Backyard  Visitors”

Address/Directions

High Falls State Park

76 High Falls Park Dr

Jackson , GA 30233

GPS Coordinates:

N 33.178333 | W 084.020533

Located 1.8 miles east of I-75 exit #198 at High Falls Road.