The cradle of modern ecology: it was here that Henry Chandler Cowles developed the scientific theory of ecological succession in 1899
Area
61 km²
Protection category
IUCN II
Parque nacional —
Designated in
2019
Declared in 2019, Indiana Dunes is reckoned a birthplace of modern ecology as a scientific discipline: here, in 1899, the botanist Henry Chandler Cowles studied how the dune vegetation changed progressively from the shore of Lake Michigan inland, and published the first systematic formulation of the theory of ecological succession, a founding concept still taught in every introductory ecology course in the world.
Location
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Indiana Dunes: 114 documented species
Mammals22Birds39Reptiles18Amphibians
Flora and ecosystems
Ecosystems found in the United States, where Indiana Dunes lies.
DesertTemperate forestTundra / polarWetland
Experiences in this park
Birdwatching
Wildlife you can see now
What is worth looking out for this month in the United States?
Now is a good time: Urban bat colony under Congress Avenue Bridge (March to November (peak in summer))
Similar parks
Which other parks are like this one?
Same country: United States
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Same country: United States
Same country: United States
Keep exploring
Based on what we already know about this park.
United States
