Field Trip: Forever Wild State Cattle Ranch Tract, Hale County

This June field trip takes us to Hale County, where an exceptional remnant of Black Belt prairie land has been preserved within the Forever Wild State Cattle Ranch tract. Birders can expect to see Dickcissels in the fields, as well as Loggerhead Shrikes and American Kestrels perched on fence posts and wires. Bald Eagles, Northern Bobwhites, and various egrets and herons are also a good bet.

The details:

Meetup is on the early side of 7 a.m. at the McDonald’s on US 31 in Hoover, located at 1731 Montgomery Highway, across from the Galleria. From there, we’ll carpool down to Hale County. It’ll most likely be a long, hot day, so be sure to bring the usual supplies: rehydrating drinks, snacks, a full tank of gas, insect repellant, rain gear, summer attire, and a healthy dollop of sunscreen. We’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant, so be sure to bring some money, too!

Trip leader:

Greg Harber (208-807-8055; please contact on the day of the trip only)