Ruth Park Woods
The 26 acre Ruth Park Woods is the last large stand of an oak/hickory hardwood forest in the St. Louis area. Located right in the heart of the metropolitan area, it is an oasis for avid bird lovers. Nearly a hundred different species of birds have been sighted there. They include birds which you might see in your own backyard as well as visitors from tropical rainforests flying to the Arctic tundra.
We are committed to raising public awareness and appreciation of this natural resource, which includes a branch of River Des Peres. The Woods contains a 1-mile loop trail that is covered in crushed limestone. Along the trail, you will see a number of interpretive tree markers designed and installed by an Eagle Scout. Benches and a picnic shelter are also available.
The Green Center is also actively involved in preserving the woods. Our programs include:
We are committed to raising public awareness and appreciation of this natural resource, which includes a branch of River Des Peres. The Woods contains a 1-mile loop trail that is covered in crushed limestone. Along the trail, you will see a number of interpretive tree markers designed and installed by an Eagle Scout. Benches and a picnic shelter are also available.
The Green Center is also actively involved in preserving the woods. Our programs include:
- non-native, invasive plant removal (bush honeysuckle, euonymus, etc.)
- debris removal
- native tree, shrub, and wildflower plantings
Ruth Park Bird Study
We observe and document bird species in Ruth Park Woods. Our goal is to provide evidence of the presence of specific bird species and, based on the presence of these bird species, an understanding of the relative health of the Ruth Park Woods ecosystem and its value to the birds that we find there. Equally instructive is the absence of birds that should be there but are not due to some missing component habitat.
Urbanization and loss of habitat have caused the decline of many birds that were once abundant in our region, including many of the 37 species of warblers that migrate through the St. Louis area every spring and fall. Once habitat has been lost or severely modified, more adaptable or aggressive species, such as the non-native European Starling, become dominant. Population growth of more adaptable species further limits the habitat available for less adaptable species, such as song bird species. A one-year study was conducted between May 1, 1997 and April 30, 1998. Additional data based on sporadic observations is available for the period of May 1, 1998 to present. To date, about 100+ species have been noted in this woods. Observational data is available at Birds In Ruth Park Woods.
Urbanization and loss of habitat have caused the decline of many birds that were once abundant in our region, including many of the 37 species of warblers that migrate through the St. Louis area every spring and fall. Once habitat has been lost or severely modified, more adaptable or aggressive species, such as the non-native European Starling, become dominant. Population growth of more adaptable species further limits the habitat available for less adaptable species, such as song bird species. A one-year study was conducted between May 1, 1997 and April 30, 1998. Additional data based on sporadic observations is available for the period of May 1, 1998 to present. To date, about 100+ species have been noted in this woods. Observational data is available at Birds In Ruth Park Woods.
Honor Someone Special
Interested in recognizing someone in your life for their extraordinary service to family or community? Consider dedicating a tree or grove planting in their honor, or as a special remembrance. For details, contact us at 725-8314 x 102, or [email protected].
Ruth Park Woods is open to the public and located at 1100 McKnight Road in University City.
Ruth Park Woods is open to the public and located at 1100 McKnight Road in University City.
