The Landlocked Forest is a vibrant natural area with many interconnected ecosystems, as well as a system of well-designed natural surface trails that allow people to explore and recreate in a wonderful and historic woodland environment. It is a forest worthy of protection, and a natural and recreation asset that residents of Burlington should enjoy and cherish for generations to come.
In our concretized, urban landscape, the Landlocked Forest of Burlington is an oasis of forest, wildlife, and natural beauty. A treasure in its own right, and enjoyed by local hikers, bicyclists, and bird watchers, it is also part of our environmental legacy, a piece of old New England to be preserved, nurtured, and bequeathed to our grandchildren.
The Landlocked Forest is home to many species of animals. Herds of deer graze in the upland and sleep in the hemlock and pine groves. Fox and coyote hunt along the banks of the swamps, while flocks of wild turkey forage the forest floor. Vernal pools, with their unique assortment of species, are dotted throughout the forest even though only two have been officially certified. Fishers and otter have been seen along the streams through the year, and even a bear was seen visiting a few years ago. Other animals spotted in the forest include Catbirds, Towhees, Woodpeckers- Downy, Hairy, Pileated and Flicker, Scarlet Tanager, Blatimore Orioles, Great Horned Owls, Barred Owls, Wood Ducks, Raccoons, Possums, and Beavers. Also, of course, Chickadees, Titmice, Cardinals, Blue Jays, Robins, Mallard Ducks, Chipmunks, Squirrels- Gray and Red, Starlings, Cowbirds, Goldfinches, and Carolina Wrens.
For them the Landlocked Forest is not landlocked. This large open space is a significant part of the wildlife corridor that extends into conservation lands in Lexington and down the gas lines into Bedford and Lincoln and north toward Billerica. It is core bio-habitat that sustains wildlife and without which they would be forced to find a home elsewhere.
