Wildlife Research at the Ames Plantation
Ames Plantation is home to a wide array of wildlife, including species that are not usually found in western Tennessee. For example, eagles have been seen here. Rare species such as the painted bunting and Bachman Sparrow also have been seen at Ames. These animals require special habitats to support them. These habitats are often found in places associated with areas maintained to support quail populations or places where intense forest practices have been conducted.
On the other hand, game animals abound. Deer and turkey are abundant. Squirrels are numerous. And, of course, as home to the Nation Championship Field Trials, quail habitat is intensively managed to support excellent quail populations.
Research has been conducted on many wildlife species, including studies on mice, hawks, beaver, coyotes and deer, just to name a few. Wildlife research often requires that students be at Ames for weeks, and sometimes, months at a time. Students from the University of Tennessee, University of Memphis and Mississippi State University conduct research at Ames. Scholars from around the world come to see what is happening here.
A hunting program to manage big game animals is in place at Ames. Hunters have the opportunity to hunt deer, turkey and squirrel. Duck habitats and blinds are under construction.
Ames Plantation’s wildlife provides unique opportunities to observe, hunt or conduct research. Ames is place where wildlife can thrive.