Guided Spring Bird Hike at Joe Wheeler State Park
FREE WITH REGISTRATION / SPACE IS LIMITED
REGISTRATION CLOSES MAY 6 AT 12AM
Join us for a Guided Spring Bird Hike at Joe Wheeler State Park, led by Program Coordinator Andrew Lydeard! We will explore the park's diverse avian population while enjoying the picturesque landscapes and tranquil ambiance of the beautiful ecosystems of the Tennessee River Valley and seek some of the last transient migrants passing through the region. Participants will take a leisurely hike through the park's scenic trails, walking part of the Jimmy Simms Birding Trail.
Joe Wheeler is an important area for breeding and migratory birds, and late migrants are a great possibility as they make their treks to northern latitudes. During the hike, you will have the chance to witness a plethora of bird species in their natural habitat, from colorful songbirds to majestic raptors soaring overhead. Some migrant songbird species we may see or hear include Blackpoll and Blackburnian Warblers, Philadelphia Vireos, and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks. Other breeding Neotropical birds might be present, too: American Redstarts, Kentucky Warblers, and Summer Tanagers are all found in this region during summer. As we will be reaching the end of peak songbird migration, late migrants are a great possibility as they make their treks to northern latitudes. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the sights and sounds of springtime at Joe Wheeler State Park!
KENTUCKY WARBLER
Andrew Lydeard
TRIP LEADERS
The leader for this trip is Andrew Lydeard / 703-606-8956 / Andrew@alaudubon.org. Please contact by phone on the day of the trip only.
NEED-TO-KNOW
REMEMBER As always, remember to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, bug spray and wear seasonally appropriate attire. Hiking boots or sturdy shoes are recommended.
DETAILS Joe Wheeler State Park has no entry fee, but please consider a donation to AL State Parks to support their mission and educational goals.
REQUIRED Participants must complete the mandatory online waiver when registering. Please do not request registration for others when submitting your request.
ACCESSIBILITY We will walk less than 3 miles on moderate to steep slopes with uneven terrain such as rocks and roots that are not suitable for all people. Parking is ample, and there are restrooms in the park but not near the trailhead, so please plan accordingly.
CANCELLATION In the event of inclement weather, or if you need to cancel at the last minute, please text your trip leaders, as the main office will be closed.
where to meet & when
We will meet at the First Creek Boat Ramp just north of Joe Wheeler State Park’s Marina promptly at 8:00AM. This boat ramp will be on your right side when coming from the north on McLean Drive.
Please continue joining Alabama Audubon as a member or donor to help us continue to offer accessible, educational programs and events across the state. Your generosity enables us to advance research, education, and advocacy efforts to protect birds in Alabama and beyond.
EQUITY, DIVERSITY, & INCLUSION
Through more than seventy-five years of conservation work in one of our nation’s most ecologically rich states, Alabama Audubon has seen firsthand how diversity strengthens natural communities. This same principle applies to human communities, which is why our organization is committed to providing equitable and inclusive opportunities for all Alabamians to learn about and enjoy wild birds, their habitats, and the natural world. One of the best ways to support that belief is by valuing and actively seeking to strengthen diversity among our staff, our board, and our membership. To that end, Alabama Audubon welcomes everyone to participate in our work, and strives to make our programs, classes, and events welcome, inclusive, and accessible to all.