Field Trip – Saturday, November 13th: Duck River Unit, Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge

We will once again make our annual pilgrimage to Duck River NWR which will take place just before the seasonal closure of the refuge.  By mid-November, hordes of geese and ducks should be returning to the refuge, and we have the chance to spot over 20 species.  Duck River also hosts a large population of wintering birds of prey and it has been a reliable spot for Golden Eagle the past several winters.  Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, and several hawk species are commonly seen.  Duck River is also very good for sparrows, and we’ll have the chance to find at least 10 species.   We’ll also be on the lookout for Sandhill Cranes, American White Pelicans, and other wintering arrivals.  For logistical reasons, carpooling is highly encouraged.  We’ll meet at the MTA Park-and-Ride in Bellevue at 6:30am; for those who don’t feel comfortable carpooling, you can either follow us separately, or meet us at the refuge entrance at 8:00am.  Please dress for the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks.  We should finish up around lunchtime. (Contact information: ms722@bellsouth.net  Please include “NTOS Field Trip” in the subject line.)