PROGRAM / EVENT NAME: Saturday Field Trip, Wheeler NWR

Free!

Event Capacity: 25

Event/ Program Description: Join Alabama Audubon and the International Crane Foundation for an accessible birding experience at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge (NWR).

Wheeler NWR boasts a range of habitat types that offer ideal locations for wintering waterfowl such as Sandhill Cranes and the Endangered Whooping Cranes to feed, rest, and roost. This special event will kick off at the Outdoor Classroom Pavilion of Wheeler NWR, where participants will gather and move to the Observation Deck Building to learn about the refuge and the thousands of birds it hosts during winters and during breeding season in Alabama.

The event begins with a presentation by Olivia Burkholz from the International Crane Foundation, and a brief introduction by Alabama Audubon Program Coordinator, Andrew Lydeard. Participants can choose to engage in a 2-hour long Big Sit, where they'll have the chance to sit and observe birds alongside Olivia and Andrew in the Observation Deck Building.

Andrew will also lead an Out-and-Back with anyone interested around the scenic boardwalk surrounding the Visitor Center that will last about 45 minutes before returning to the Big Sit. This accessible, family-friendly event is open to all ages, inviting bird enthusiasts and nature lovers to connect with the beauty of avian life while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of Wheeler NWR. Come join us for a morning of birdwatching, community, and education among the cranes!

LOCATION DETAILS: Parking and admission is free at the refuge, and restrooms are available.
*Please note that the Visitor Center does not open until 9 am, so restrooms may not be available until that time. Please plan accordingly.

TRAVEL INFORMATION: Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
3121 Visitors Center Rd, Decatur, AL 35603

Accessibility: The Observation Building and Visitor Center is fully ADA accessible, and there are restrooms in the Visitor Center. Any traveling during the Out-and-Back portion of the event will be done on mostly flat sidewalk or boardwalk terrain and be no more than a half mile total.

Trip Leader: Andrew Lydeard// (703) 606-8956 Please contact day of the event for questions and concerns.

PHOTO OWNER & RIGHTS: Andrew Lyeard // Courting Sandhill Cranes