Cranesville Swamp Preserve


Cranesville Swamp Preserve is a preserve situated in Preston County, West Virginia and Garrett County, Maryland,unusual in harboring many plants and animals that are normally only seen in more northern climates.

History

The Nature Conservancy purchased the beginning in 1960. In October 1964, the site was designated as one of the first National Natural Landmarks in the country.

Geology

Cranesville Swamp is situated in a natural bowl, or "frost pocket," creating a climate that is more consistent with more northerly regions.

Ecology

Flora

Cranesville Swamp's unusual setting allows 19 different plant communities to flourish,
with the most dominant species being, among others, sphagnum moss, speckled alder, various sedges and grasses. Bog species include round-leaved sundew and narrowleaf gentian.
The swamp is also home to the southernmost natural community of American larches.

Fauna

In addition to black bear, porcupine, snowshoe hare and a wide variety of birds, the rare northern water shrew has been documented here. Birders have also noted the golden-crowned kinglet and Nashville warbler, rarely seen in this area.