Today's field trip will take us further afield - to the Coleman Lake/Pinhoti Trailhead area of the Talladega National Forest - where we will spend the first part of our morning gazing skyward, in hopes of finding Golden Eagle(s) soaring overhead. This species is known to winter in the area, and thus we'll plan to walk (on a dirt Forest Service road) to an area where we have encountered them in the past. Bring a folding chair, if you wish, and be prepared to sit a while. Following our Big Sit, we'll drive to the trailhead parking area where we hope to encounter Red Crossbills and Red-cockaded Woodpeckers.

Bring a lunch and a folding chair, if you wish, as there are no picnic facilities available. Be sure to bring winter/ rain apparel to have on hand as well as food and water.

MEETING LOCATION: We'll meet at the Buc-ee's in Leeds, AL and depart from there at 7:00 a.m., to caravan to our second gathering site, the McDonald's in Heflin, AL, via I-20 East (exit #199).

ADDRESS Meeting for the morning: 6900 Buc-ee's Blvd., Leeds, AL 35094, United States

ADDRESS for McDonald's: 1816 Almon St., Heflin, AL 36264, United States

We expect to arrive at the McDonald's by 8:15 a.m. Bring your lunch and water for the day.

This event is free but registration is required.

Field Trip Leaders: Greg Harber (205) 807-8055 // Co-Leaders: Hans Paul (205) 807-7357 & Marj Young (205) 515-8394

Please contact your leaders day of the event for questions or concerns.

Accessibility: Travel distance will be up to 2.0 miles on pavement, hard-packed dirt/sand with moderate uphill and downhill. There are no resting places or bathrooms on site.

Picture Owner & Rights: Golden Eagle by Greg Harber