Cover Photo by Melissa McGaw Inset Photos by Brady Beck, Chuck Carmack, Melissa McGaw
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
The North Carolina
Birding Trail
Piedmont Trail Guide
Copyright © 2008 North Carolina Birding Trail www.ncbirdingtrail.org
Distributed by: The University of North Carolina Press 116 South Boundary Street Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27514 1-800-848-6224
Copyright © 2008 North Carolina Birding Trail ISBN Cover design, book design and layout by Chuck Samuels, Design Dimension, Inc. Raleigh, North Carolina Printed in North Carolina by Theo Davis Printing Printed on recycled paper
Acknowledgments We also would like to extend our thanks to the many people who helped complete this publication by writing site descriptions, editing text, providing design advice and donating photographs. The following people and organizations have provided assistance: Scott Anderson, Karen Bearden, Brady Beck, Mark Buckler, Chuck Carmack, Ed Corey, Salinda Daley, Phil Dickinson, Ryan Elting, John Ennis, Mary Erickson, Lena Gallitano, Mark Johns, David Kilpatrick, Jeff Lemons, Jeff Lewis, Jeff Marcus, Michael McCloy, Melissa McGaw, Chris Moorman, Erica Newman, NC State Parks, Cory Redick, Phil Rhyne, Frank Ripp, Jessie Schillaci, Harry Sell, Don Seriff. The Cardinal Foundation has also provided key support to the North Carolina Birding Trail.
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rolina State of North Ca rnor ve Go e th of e fic Of 301 Raleigh, NC 27699-0
20301 Mail Service
Center •
Michael F. Easley Governor
Dear Friends, e tural resources provid rich and diverse nat Carolina. Our state’s of birds, making the es typ all for s Welcome to North ain to our mount e. s from our beaches outstanding habitat enthusiasts nationwid orite among birding fav a e stat l” hee r a “Ta one more reason to Trail, visitors have th Carolina Birding r rt s that support them. No itat the hab of g que nin uni s and the With the ope ts birders to local wide variety of bird nec a of con rch and s sea in cie e n 460 spe travel to our stat ns to view more tha atio loc al ide es lud The Trail inc actions. sses, and cultural attr t e very communities, busine state for th visitor coming to our Not only are rth Carolinian, or a f - long Nort life Birding Trail. a olin Car h t r rt No Whether you are a e t th t avel hospitality you to get out and tr will also enjoy the f rst time, I encourage spectacular birds and habitats, but you fi . e lore som to exp you certain to find h a wonderful state North Carolina suc and charm that makes s, I remain With kindest regard Verry truly yours
Michael F. Easley
MFE:sew
st Jones Stre Location: 116 We
et •Raleigh, NC •
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
733-581 1 Telephone: (919)
3
Welcome to The North Carolina Birding Trail!
Table of Contents
A Birding Paradise
Table of Contents
North Carolina harbors an incredible diversity of habitats, including coastal estuaries, longleaf pine savannas, and spruce-fir forests. These habitats provide food and shelter for more than 440 bird species throughout the year, making North Carolina a premiere destination for birders and nature-lovers. The North Carolina Birding Trail is a driving trail to link birders and nature-based tourists with great birding sites across the state and the local communities in which they are found. So get out and explore our great state and the birding treasures it holds!
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Piedmont Trail Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Before You Visit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Other Birding Resources . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Top Viewing Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Respect the Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Using the Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Site Listing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Overall Site Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
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Site Groups Northeast Piedmont . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Caswell-Person . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Falls Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Orange-Durham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Greater Raleigh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Jordan Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75 Lee-Harnett . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85 Sandhills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91 Rockingham County. . . . . . . . . . . . .105 Central Piedmont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111 Northwest Piedmont . . . . . . . . . . . . .121 High Rock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131 Uwharrie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141 Pee Dee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151 Greater Charlotte East . . . . . . . . . . .159 Site Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .170 Calling Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173 Regional Map . . . . (inside back cover)
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About Us The North Carolina Birding Trail is a partnership among six agencies and organizations in North Carolina. Our mission is “to conserve and enhance North Carolina’s bird habitat by promoting sustainable bird watching activities, economic opportunities and conservation education.”
Audubon North Carolina’s mission is to help conserve and restore the North Carolina habitats we share with all wildlife, focusing on the needs of birds. North Carolina Cooperative Extension is an educational partnership helping people put research-based knowledge to work for economic prosperity, environmental stewardship and an improved quality of life. The mission of North Carolina Sea Grant is to enhance the sustainable use and conservation of ocean and coastal resources to benefit communities, the economy and the environment.
The mission of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is to manage, restore, develop, cultivate, conserve, protect, and regulate wildlife resources and their habitats for the citizens of the state. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s mission is working with others, to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
Beyond these six core participating organizations, the North Carolina Birding Trail would like to thank the following supporters for their financial contributions to this publication:
This rural tourism development project is supported by the Golden LEAF Foundation. For more information, visit http://goldenleaf.org/.
The Mecklenburg Audubon Society became the first official North Carolina chapter of the National Audubon Society in 1970. Mecklenburg Audubon is dedicated to the conservation and restoration of natural ecosystems, focusing on birds and other wildlife for the benefit of humanity and the earth’s biological diversity. For more information, visit www.meckbirds.org.
Progress Energy donated more than $10.5 million in 2007 to enhance education, promote energy research and protect the environment in the communities it serves, and to support initiatives and institutions important to the company’s 10,000-plus employees. For more information, visit www.progress-energy.com.
The Carolina Bird Club, Inc. is the Ornithological Society of the Carolinas. The Club is a nonprofit educational and scientific association founded in 1937. Membership is open to those interested in the study and conservation of wildlife, particularly birds. For more information, visit www. carolinabirdclub.org.
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
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Welcome and Introduction
The mission of the State Parks system is to conserve and protect representative examples of the natural beauty, ecological features and recreational resources of statewide significance; to provide outdoor recreational opportunities in a safe and healthy environment; and to provide environmental education opportunities that promote stewardship of the state’s natural heritage.
Piedmont Trail Guide This guide, the second of three regional North Carolina Birding Trail guides, presents the traveler with 103 birding sites, in 15 groupings across the North Carolina piedmont - areas west of Interstate 95 and east of Interstate 77. Each group is complete with a map and includes site descriptions for each birding destination, as well as useful information about other community attractions you’ll find along the way. While the groups have been designed to cluster sites that are within easy travel distances of one another, it is not necessary to travel the North Carolina Birding Trail in any particular order. Directions to each site are given from the nearest major state or federal highway.
Before you visit… Be sure to review the following list of useful tips to make your travels more enjoyable.
Planning Your Visit
1. Plan to provide your own food and drink while visiting sites along the Trail. Few sites provide concessions. In addition, some rural areas may have limited services, such as gas stations and restaurants, so plan accordingly. 2. Plan ahead to visit sites that require advanced permission, a ferry ride, or that are boat accessible only. 3. Check the Carolina Bird Club’s Rare Bird Alert web site (www.carolinabirdclub.org) for rare bird sightings and be sure to study up on the birds of North Carolina. 4. Consult birding resources ahead of time to optimize your chances of seeing seasonal target species. The key to successful birding is being in the right place at the right time of year. 5. Some sites support not only great birds, but also biting insects and the occasional venomous snake. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear and be sure to pack insect repellent and sunscreen. 6. Plan for variable weather and dress accordingly. 7. Be aware that some publicly owned lands are open to hunting during certain times of the year. Review the Hunting Areas inset on this page.
Hunting Areas: On all public Game Lands, and in some national forests, national wildlife refuges, and other state-owned lands, birders must be aware of hunting seasons and regulations and should consult the most current version of the North Carolina Inland Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping Regulations Digest before visiting. Other useful Game Lands resources include the Special Permit Hunts book and the Game Lands Map Book. These books are usually available where hunting and fishing licenses are sold. Or visit www.ncwildlife. org to request such information. Sunday visitation of Game Lands is encouraged during hunting seasons as Sunday hunting is currently prohibited on Game Lands in North Carolina. See the Site Index in the back of the guide for a list of sites that allow hunting.
Paddle Trails: If paddling on a North Carolina Birding Trail site, be sure to observe safe paddling techniques. Carry and use necessary safety gear for the outing. Visit the NC Paddle Trails Association web site (www.ncpaddletrails. org) for more paddle trail information. See the Site Index in the back of the guide for a list of sites that are paddle trail accessible.
Local community and business support Successful birding trails also provide economic development opportunities for the local communities that host visiting birders. The following are some tips on how you can encourage local community and business support for the NC Birding Trail: NC Birdin ife Reso g Trail urces Co 1722 Ma mmission il Service Raleigh Center , NC 27 (919) 60 699-1722 4-5183 www.nc birdingt rail.org info@nc birdingt rail.org
NC Wildl
1. Educate local businesses and communities about the importance of birding areas. 2. Support communities and businesses displaying the “Birder Friendly” logo. 3. Leave the enclosed “Birder Calling Cards” at local establishments to identify yourself at the places you patronize. 4. Be friendly and courteous to local residents.
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I stopped by becaus e of the North Ca rolina Bi rding Trai l.
Respect the resources
Consult the following books or web sites for additional information about birding sites in the North Carolina piedmont. See the Site Index in the back of the guide for a listing of sites referenced in these sources.
Please use the following guidelines when visiting sites along the North Carolina Birding Trail.
• Birding North Carolina, edited by Marshall Brooks and Mark Johns. 2005. Falcon Guide, The Globe Pequot Press. • Birding NC State Parks, edited by Karen Bearden. 2002. Audubon North Carolina. • North Carolina Wildlife Viewing Guide, Charles E. Roe. 1992. Falcon Press. • A Birdwatcher’s Guide to the Triangle, edited by Karen Bearden, Lynn Barber, John Connors, Christina Harvey and Linda Rudd. 2000. Wake Audubon Society, www.wakeaudubon.org • Audubon Society of Forsyth County, field checklist: www.forsythaudubon.org • Mecklenburg Audubon, county bird list: www.meckbirds.org • New Hope Audubon Society: www.newhopeaudubon.org • T. Gilbert Pearson Audubon Society: www.tgpearsonaudubon.org • The Carolina Bird Club: www.carolinabirdclub.org • The Triangle Birder’s Guide: http://tbg.carolinanature.com/
Top viewing techniques Use the following techniques to maximize your opportunities to view birds in a natural setting while minimizing disturbance to the birds or their habitats. 1. Study your field guide ahead of time to familiarize yourself with the species in an area. 2. Scan for movement; move slowly and quietly. 3. Use a viewing blind and take advantage of natural cover. 4. Wear clothing that blends with the surroundings – except during hunting seasons, when blaze orange is a safety must. 5. Locate birds with your eyes, then focus in using binoculars, a scope, or a photo lens. 6. Listen for bird calls and songs; many birds will be detected by ear before they can be spotted by sight. 7. Leave your pets at home to reduce disturbance.
1. Limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and never use such methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any rare species. 2. Keep well back from nests and nesting colonies, roosts, display areas, and important feeding sites. Respect all posted signs, fencing, and instructions. 3. Do not feed or bait any wildlife. 4. Stay on existing roads, trails, and paths where possible; keep habitat disturbance to a minimum. 5. Respect the law and the rights of others. Do not enter private property without the owner’s explicit permission. 6. Follow all laws, rules, and regulations governing use of roads and public areas. 7. Close gates and leave areas as you found them. 8. Practice common courtesy in contacts with other people. Your exemplary behavior will generate goodwill with birders and non-birders alike. 9. Be aware that some publicly owned lands are open to hunting during certain times of the year. See the previous page for more about Hunting Areas. For more information, review the American Birding Association’s Principles of Birding Ethics (http://americanbirding.org).
Travel and Tourism: For information on planning your next trip in North Carolina, visit: www.visitnc.com
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
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Planning Your Visit
Other birding resources
Using the Guide V
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Map – Each color-coded section of the guide begins with a map depicting the locations of all the Birding Trail sites in that group. Use these maps, in combination with the written directions in each site description, to navigate to sites. All maps are north-oriented. Smaller inset maps are also provided at the start of each site description, as a quick reference. A map of the entire piedmont region can be found on page 12, and on the inside back cover.
8
Lake Ga st
7
Ker
3
rL ak
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4
on
903
6 5
39
Norlina
85
Macon
Littleton
158 1
2
Warrenton
Middleburg
1
9 4
Henderson 158
401
561
58
39
10
Kittrell
Centerville
561
1
43
Franklinton
Louisburg
56
Castalia 58
Red Oak
581
0
Thumbnail Map – Use this map to locate the group within the state.
5
11
Mile You Are Here
77 95
Northeast Piedmont Group
Using The Guide
1
Vance Game Land - Crooked Run Wildlife Management Area
2
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Nutbush
3 4 5
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Satterwhite Point
6
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Bullocksville
7
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – County Line
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Hibernia
8
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Kimball Point
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Henderson Point
9
Newell Farms
Site Listing – All sites within the group are listed here in numerical order.
10 Medoc Mountain State Park 11 Franklin County Nature Preserve
14
Key to map symbols and icons 95
Interstate
301
US Highway
903
NC Highway
2
2
© Michael McCloy
Snowy Egret
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Nutbush
NC Birding Trail site
Nutbush Rd.
Managed public land**
Water **These lands include National Forests, State Game Lands, National Seashores, National Wildlife Refuges, State Parks, or other federally or state owned lands.
Local Site Map – A close-up view of the site and surrounding area.
Northeast Piedmont Group
Municipality
Middleburg 1 85 39
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks Nutbish Road, Henderson, NC 27537 Vance County 252-438-7791 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Nutbush State Recreation Area (SRA) is located along Nutbush Creek, on the west end of Nutbush Bridge. Nutbush Creek gets its name from the Hazelnut bushes that were common in the area before Kerr Reservoir was impounded. Hazelnut is still abundant in certain locations of Nutbush SRA. The majority of the recreation area is developed as a campground. The boat ramp at Area 1 provides a good view of the lake and potential birds that may be on or over the water. The boat ramp at Area 3 is located in a small cove where Prothonotary Warbler are often found during the spring and summer. This area is sometimes productive
16
Site Information – Pertinent contact information, including the site owner or manager, street address or location, phone number, and web address (if available).
8
1
2
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for waterfowl on dreary winter days. It is also a good place to launch a canoe or kayak to access Indian, Nutbush and Crooked Run Creeks for good birding outside of the NC State Park lease area. Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Common Loon, Prothonotary Warbler, wintering waterfowl Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, small wetland communities, lake Access & Parking: Area 1 Campground is open April – September; Areas 2 and 4 are open Memorial Day – Labor Day; Area 3 Campground is open year round. Nutbush day use areas provide access year round. A fee is charged per vehicle daily Memorial Day – Labor Day and on weekends April, May and September. The fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. The entrance fee receipt can be used to enter other areas at Kerr Lake State Recreation Area during the same day for no additional fee. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Directions: From Henderson, take I-85 to Exit 214. Follow NC 39 approximately 4.5 miles north. Turn right on Nutbush Road and follow it for 1.5 miles. Areas 1 and 2 are on the left. Areas 3 and 4 are on the right. Coordinates: N 36° 24’ 46” W 78’ 23’ 42” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 21
While You’re In the Area Eastern Bluebird Rescue Group 126 Newell Farms Road Warrenton, NC 27589 252-257-5199 www.easternbluebirdrescuegroup.org
While You’re In The Area – This section lists local cultural, historical, or community attractions to visit while traveling along this group of Birding Trail sites.
HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trail: Hushpuppies, Pimento Cheese & Sweet Tea www.homegrownhandmade.com Vance County Heritage Trail Vance County Tourism Department 946-T West Andrews Avenue Henderson, NC 27536 252-438-2222 www.kerrlake-nc.com
Northeast Piedmont Group
© John Ennis
American Kestrel
Site Description – A detailed description of the site, including recommendations on where to go in search of birds.
Site Amenity Icons – A listing of amenities available on site. A key to the site amenity icons can be found on page 12, and inside the back cover.
3 Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Hibernia I
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Hibernia Rd.
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Kimball Pt. Rd. Buchanan Store Rd.
Drewry-Va. Line Rd.
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Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 2041 Hibernia Road, Henderson, NC 27537 Vance County 252-438-7791 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Hibernia is located on the western shore of Kerr Lake’s Nutbush arm. It contains 446 acres, about half of which is reserved for camping. It has a mix of hardwood, pine, shoreline
and maintained open space. Most of the area can be birded by walking along the quiet park roads. The 0.5-mile Plantation Trail begins just past the entrance to Area 1 and leads to the former site of the Hibernia Plantation. The trail travels through pine and mixed pine/hardwood forests. The picnic area at the terminus of the park road provides good views of the lake to scan for water species such as Bald Eagle, Osprey, Common Loon, Great Blue Heron and gulls. When the lake level is low, birders can also explore the day use shoreline in search of birds. Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Common Loon, Red-tailed Hawk, Eastern Kingbird, wintering waterfowl Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, lake Access & Parking: The park is open April – October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August; 8am to 7pm, October. From November – March, the majority of the park is closed. However, there is a small overlook area that is open from 8am to 5pm. A fee per vehicle is charged daily Memorial Day – Labor Day and on weekends April, May and September. The fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. The entrance fee receipt can be used to enter other areas at Kerr Lake State Recreation Area during the same day for no additional fee. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Directions: From Henderson, take NC 39 north 12.5 miles from the I-85 intersection (Exit 214). Turn right on Hibernia Road, which ends at the park. Follow the two-lane road to the end for parking. Coordinates: N 36° 30’ 38” W 78° 22’ 29” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 21
© Phil Rhyne
Bald Eagle
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Northeast Piedmont Group
V
Rock Spring Church Rd.
Using The Guide
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Other Site Details – Additional information about the site, including species of interest, habitats present, access and parking details, and directions. Latitude and longitude coordinates of the site parking area are also listed, along with the relevant NC Gazetteer page.
Pay Special Attention to… Be sure to review the site description in advance of your visit so that you can plan for any special considerations, including sites that: 1. require advanced notice or are by appointment only, 2. charge an entrance fee or have limited access hours, 3. allow hunting - see page 6 for more about Hunting Areas, or 4. are boat accessible only. The Site Index in the back of the guide is a useful reference for this type of information.
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Site Listing Group Northeast Piedmont
OrangeDurham
Site Number and Name
Pg.
1
Vance Game LandCrooked Run Wildlife Management Area
15
2
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Nutbush
16
3
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Hibernia
17
4
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Henderson Point
18
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Satterwhite Point
19
6
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Bullocksville
20
7
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - County Line
21
5
Greater Raleigh
1
Hill Forest
47
2
Little River Regional Park
48
3
Eno River State Park
49
4
Indian Trail Park and W. Ellerbe Creek Trail
50
5
Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area
51
6
Johnston Mill Nature Preserve
52
7
Duke Forest
53
8
Mason Farm Biological Reserve
54
1
Durant Nature Park
59
2
William B. Umstead State Park
60
3
Lake Crabtree County Park
61
4
Schenck Forest
62
Prairie Ridge Ecostation for Wildlife and Learning
63
Site Listing
8
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Kimball Point
22
5
9
Newell Farms
23
6
Anderson Point Park
64
Clemmons Educational State Forest
65
10
Medoc Mountain State Park
24
7
11
Franklin County Nature Preserve
25
8
Lake Benson Park
66
9
Lake Johnson
67
10
Historic Yates Mill County Park
68
CaswellPerson
1
Caswell Game Land
29
2
Mayo Park
30
Falls Lake
1
Falls Lake Trail
35
11
Lake Wheeler
69
12
Swift Creek Bluffs
70
13
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
71
14
Harris Lake County Park
72
1
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - Ebenezer Church
77
2
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - New Hope
78
3
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - Seaforth
79
4
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - Parkers Creek
80
5
Jordan Lake Educational State Forest
81
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - Vista Point
82
White Pines Nature Preserve
83
10
2
Blue Jay Point County Park
36
3
Falls Lake State Recreation Area - Holly Point/ Shinleaf
38
4
Falls Lake State Recreation Area - Woodpecker Ridge
39
5
Falls Lake State Recreation Area - Beaverdam Reservoir
40
6
Falls Lake State Recreation Area - Sandling Beach
41
7
Falls Lake State Recreation Area - Rollingview
42
Jordan Lake
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
Sandhills
Rockingham County
Central Piedmont
Northwest Piedmont
1
Dunn-Erwin Trail
87
2
Raven Rock State Park
88
3
San-Lee Environmental Education and Recreation Park
89
1
Cape Fear Botanical Garden
93
2
J. Bayard Clark Park
94
3
Cape Fear River Trail
95
4
Carvers Creek State Park
96
5
Raft Swamp Farms
97
6
All American Trail
98
7
Calloway Forest
99
8
Lumber River State Park
100
9
Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve
101
10
Sandhills Game Land
102
1
Lake Reidsville Recreation Park
107
2
Chinqua Penn Walking Trail
108
3
Dan River
109
1
Cedarock Park
113
2
Haw River Trail
114
3
Haw River State Park
115
4
Bog Garden
116
5
Guilford Courthouse National Military Park
117
6
Bur-Mil Park
118
7
Piedmont Environmental Center of High Point
119
1
Salem Lake, Greenway and Civitan Park
123
2
Miller Park
124
3
Reynolda Gardens
125
4
Historic Bethabara Park
126
5
Tanglewood Park & Arboretum
127
6
Pilot Mountain State Park
128
7
Hanging Rock State Park
129
High Rock
Uwharrie
Pee-Dee
Greater Charlotte
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
1
Boone’s Cave Park
133
2
Catawba College Ecological Preserve
134
3
Dan Nicholas Park
135
4
Dunn’s Mountain History and Nature Preserve
136
5
Eagle Point Nature Preserve
137
6
Alcoa Game Land - Newsom Road Access
138
1
North Carolina Zoological Park
143
2
Uwharrie National Forest - Birkhead Mountain Wilderness
144
3
Uwharrie National Forest - Densons Creek Nature Trail
145
4
Uwharrie National Forest - Uwharrie Trail
146
5
Uwharrie National Forest - Badin Lake Recreation Area
147
6
Morrow Mountain State Park
148
1
High Ridge Gardens
153
2
Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge
154
3
Town Creek Indian Mound
155
4
Pee Dee River Game Land - Blewett Falls
156
5
Hinson Lake
157
1
Frank Liske Park
161
2
Mallard Creek and Clark’s Creek Greenways
162
3
Reedy Creek Nature Preserve
163
4
Freedom Park and Charlotte Nature Museum
164
5
McAlpine Creek and Campbell Creek Greenways
165
6
Lower McAlpine and McMullen Creek Greenway
166
7
Cane Creek Park
167
11
Site Listing
LeeHarnett
Overall Site Map
CaswellPerson
Rockingham County Northwest Piedmont
Northeast Piedmont
OrangeDurham
Central Piedmont
Falls Lake
Greater Raleigh
Jordan Lake
High Rock
Uwharrie
Lee-Harnett
Greater Charlotte East
Sandhills Pee Dee
Miles
20
40 40
60
80
Kilometers
in g
In te rp re tiv e Pi Pr cn og ic ra A m re s a Re st ro om s Tr ai lM ap s/ Vi In ew fo rm in at g io Pl at Vi n fo sit rm or s C en te r
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Key To Site Amenity Icons
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Welcome to the
Northeast Piedmont Group
T
his group falls across Franklin, Vance, Warren, and Halifax counties, situated just west of Interstate 95 and just below the Virginia state line. The waters of the Roanoke and Tar rivers flow through the region, supporting a rich diversity of terrestrial and aquatic flora and fauna. Kerr Lake State
Recreation Area offers numerous recreational activities along the shoreline of this 50,000-acre reservoir, including birding, hiking, fishing, and camping. The area is rich in small town hospitality and rural landscapes, a welcomed change from the hustle and bustle of much of the central piedmont.
77
Northeast Piedmont Group
You Are Here
Raleigh 95
© Jason Brown, NC State Parks
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Warrenton
Middleburg
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Henderson 158
401
561
58
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Kittrell
Centerville
561
1
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Franklinton
Louisburg
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Castalia 58
Red Oak
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11 You Are Here
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Raleig 95
Northeast Piedmont Group 1
Vance Game Land - Crooked Run Wildlife Management Area
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Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Nutbush
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Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – County Line
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Hibernia
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Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Kimball Point
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Henderson Point
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Newell Farms
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Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Satterwhite Point
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Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Bullocksville
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10 Medoc Mountain State Park 11 Franklin County Nature Preserve
1 Vance Game Land Crooked Run Wildlife Management Area Nutbush Rd.
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Middleburg 1 85 39
About the Site: Unlike other piedmont region reservoirs, Kerr Lake has very narrow forested buffers surrounding it, such that most of the public access areas around the lake contain few remote forested areas or fields. This 160-acre site is one of the best areas around Kerr Lake to find the typical breeding birds of the region, such as Prothonotary Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, and Blue-headed Vireo. It is also a good location for Wood Duck and Mallard. The property has rich slopes that contain rare plants and is a good location for viewing butterflies. An excellent mix of natural communities can be found at Crooked Run, including a variety of upland hardwood types. After parking at the entrance gate, follow the dirt road onto the Game Land. This road winds through upland and lowland forests and alongside a handful of food-plot fields, for approximately 2 miles. The road parallels NC 39 for a few hundred yards, then veers west before crossing a small creek. A few hundred yards past the creek, it is recommended to take a left at the “T” to access field margins and the main part
© Jeff Lewis
Black-and-white Warbler
of the management area. At times, the narrow floodplains are inundated by high waters at the lake, but they are normally dry. Species of Interest: Wood Duck, Prothonotary Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, Scarlet Tanager Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, early successional, small wetland communities Special Concern: Hunting is allowed on Vance Game Land during certain times of the year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Access & Parking: The Game Land can be accessed daily during daylight hours. Parking is available at the gate; do not block the gate when parking. Directions: From I-85 in Henderson, take the exit for NC 39 and follow it north for 3.5 miles. The site is on the left hand side of the road, marked by a gated dirt road entrance. Coordinates: N 36° 23’ 22” W 78° 25’ 03” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 21
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Northeast Piedmont Group
Site Information: Owner: US Army Corps of Engineers (managed by NC Wildlife Resources Commission) NC 39, 3.5 miles north of Henderson, NC Vance County 919-707-0050 www.ncwildlife.org
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© Michael McCloy
Snowy Egret
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Nutbush Nutbush Rd.
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Northeast Piedmont Group
Middleburg 1 85 39
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks Nutbush Road, Henderson, NC 27537 Vance County 252-438-7791 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Nutbush State Recreation Area (SRA) is located along Nutbush Creek, on the west end of Nutbush Bridge. Nutbush Creek gets its name from the Hazelnut bushes that were common in the area before Kerr Reservoir was impounded. Hazelnut is still abundant in certain locations of Nutbush SRA. The majority of the recreation area is developed as a campground. The boat ramp at Area 1 provides a good view of the lake and potential birds that may be on or over the water. The boat ramp at Area 3 is located in a small cove where Prothonotary Warbler are often found during the spring and summer. This area is sometimes productive
16
for waterfowl on dreary winter days. It is also a good place to launch a canoe or kayak to access Indian, Nutbush and Crooked Run Creeks for good birding outside of the NC State Park lease area. Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Common Loon, Prothonotary Warbler, wintering waterfowl Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, small wetland communities, lake Access & Parking: Area 1 Campground is open April – September; Areas 2 and 4 are open Memorial Day – Labor Day; Area 3 Campground is open year round. Nutbush day use areas provide access year round. A fee is charged per vehicle daily Memorial Day – Labor Day and on weekends April, May and September. The fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. The entrance fee receipt can be used to enter other areas at Kerr Lake State Recreation Area during the same day for no additional fee. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Directions: From Henderson, take I-85 to Exit 214. Follow NC 39 approximately 4.5 miles north. Turn right on Nutbush Road and follow it for 1.5 miles. Areas 1 and 2 are on the left. Areas 3 and 4 are on the right. Coordinates: N 36° 24’ 46” W 78’ 23’ 42” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 21
3 Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Hibernia I
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Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 2041 Hibernia Road, Henderson, NC 27537 Vance County 252-438-7791 www.ncparks.gov
just past the entrance to Area 1 and leads to the former site of the Hibernia Plantation. The trail travels through pine and mixed pine/hardwood forests. The picnic area at the terminus of the park road provides good views of the lake to scan for water species such as Bald Eagle, Osprey, Common Loon, Great Blue Heron and gulls. When the lake level is low, birders can also explore the day use shoreline in search of birds.
Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Common Loon, Red-tailed Hawk, Eastern Kingbird, wintering waterfowl Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, lake
About the Site: Hibernia is located on the western shore of Kerr Lake’s Nutbush arm. It contains 446 acres, about half of which is reserved for camping. It has a mix of hardwood, pine, shoreline and maintained open space. Most of the area can be birded by walking along the quiet park roads. The 0.5-mile Plantation Trail begins
Access & Parking: The park is open April – October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August; 8am to 7pm, October. From November – March, the majority of the park is closed. However, there is a small overlook area that is open from 8am to 5pm. A fee per vehicle is charged daily Memorial Day – Labor Day and on weekends April, May and September. The fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. The entrance fee receipt can be used to enter other areas at Kerr Lake State Recreation Area during the same day for no additional fee. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Directions: From Henderson, take NC 39 north 12.5 miles from the I-85 intersection (Exit 214). Turn right on Hibernia Road, which ends at the park. Follow the two-lane road to the end for parking.
© Phil Rhyne
Coordinates: N 36° 30’ 38” W 78° 22’ 29” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 21
Bald Eagle
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Northeast Piedmont Group
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daily Memorial Day – Labor Day and on weekends April, May and September. The fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. The entrance fee receipt can be used to enter other areas at Kerr Lake State Recreation Area during the same day for no additional fee. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites.
7
County Line Rd.
Kimball Pt. Rd. Buchanan Store Rd.
Drewry-Va. Line Rd.
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Northeast Piedmont Group
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 1427 Reverend Henderson Road, Henderson, NC 27537 Vance County 252-438-7791 www.ncparks.gov
Directions: From Henderson, take NC 39 north 13.5 miles from the I-85 intersection (Exit 214). Turn right on Rock Spring Church Road, then right again on Reverend Henderson Road, which ends at the park. Coordinates (of the parking area/entrance): : N 36° 32’ 05” W 78° 20’ 44” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 21
About the Site: The 329-acre Henderson Point State Recreation Area is located on the western shore of Kerr Lake’s Nutbush Creek. The majority of Henderson Point is reserved for camping. However, there is a day use area that offers good views of Kerr Lake to scan for species such as Bald Eagle, Osprey, Great Blue Heron, Common Loon and grebe species. The picnic shelters and beaches provide good views. Visitors also can walk down a short paved trail to the fishing pier for good lake viewing. The trail traverses a loblolly pine forest where species common to that habitat often are found. Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Osprey, Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Pied-billed Grebe Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, lake Access & Parking: Day use areas are open April – October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August; 8am to 7pm, October. A fee per vehicle is charged
© Jeff Lemons
Eastern Kingbird
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5 Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Satterwhite Point
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6 Manson Rd. Satterwhite Pt. Rd.
Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Common Loon, Red-headed Woodpecker, Northern Parula, Prothonotary Warbler, Summer Tanager
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Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, small wetland communities, lake
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 6254 Satterwhite Point Road, Henderson, NC 27537 Vance County 252-438-7791 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Satterwhite Point State Recreation Area is located on the southeast end of Kerr Lake’s Nubush arm and contains 282 acres. While much of Satterwhite Point is maintained open space, pine and hardwood forests also are found here. The area behind the office contains a short, paved, interpretive trail leading to an overlook and amphitheater. Great Blue Heron are common around the lakeshore. Woodland species such as Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Northern Parula, Yellow-throated Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler and Summer Tanager are common in the spring and summer. Access the day use portion of Satterwhite Point by leaving the visitor center and crossing Satterwhite Point Road. The northern tip of Satterwhite Point provides good views of Kerr Lake and can be a good staging point during spring and fall migrations. It is a good location to view Common Loon and
Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August; 8am to 7pm, October. The visitor center is open weekdays, 8am to 5pm, September – April; weekdays, 8am to 6pm, May – August; weekends, 9am to 6pm, May - August. A fee is charged per vehicle daily Memorial Day – Labor Day and on weekends April, May and September. The fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. The entrance fee receipt can be used to enter other areas at Kerr Lake State Recreation Area during the same day for no additional fee. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. There is no fee to access the visitor center or the trail located behind it. Directions: From Henderson, take I-85 north to Exit 217. Travel north on Satterwhite Point Road for approximately 5 miles. The Kerr Lake Visitor Center is on the right and the entrance for day use and camping is on the left. Coordinates: N 36° 26’ 49” W 78° 22’ 18” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 21 © David Kilpatrick
Red-headed Woodpecker
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Northeast Piedmont Group
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various gull species during the fall and winter. It is also a good area to see Red-headed Woodpecker. Keep an eye out for Bald Eagle, which are fairly common at Kerr Lake in winter, and Osprey, which are frequently seen during the warmer months.
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Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Bullocksville
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6 Manson Rd. Satterwhite Pt. Rd.
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Northeast Piedmont Group
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 3050 Bullocksville Park Road, Henderson, NC 27537 Vance County 252-438-7791 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Bullocksville State Recreation Area is 445 acres in size. There are camping and day-use facilities with a fair amount of maintained open space, but much of this recreation area is undeveloped pine and hardwood forest. The 1-mile Ole Still Trail winds through a hardwood forest providing opportunities to see woodland species such as Summer and Scarlet Tanagers, Yellow-throated Warbler, Brownheaded and White-breasted Nuthatches and Pileated Woodpecker. The easily accessible shoreline and fishing pier are good locations to search the water for Common Loon and gulls in winter. Wild Turkey are frequently seen in the area. Barred and Eastern Screech-Owls are often heard near the park entrance.
Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May - August; 8am to 7pm, October. Campground is open April – September. A fee is charged per vehicle daily Memorial Day – Labor Day and on weekends April, May and September. The fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. The receipt can be used to enter other areas at Kerr Lake State Recreation Area during the same day for no additional fee. The entrance fee receipt can be used to enter other areas at Kerr Lake State Recreation Area during the same day for no additional fee. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Directions: From Henderson, take I-85 north to Exit 223. Turn left on Manson Road and go approximately 3 miles to the Drewry Crossroads. Go straight at the crossroads onto Bullocksville Park Road, which dead ends at the State Recreation Area. Coordinates: N 36° 27’ 30” W 78° 21’ 53” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 21
Species of Interest: Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Wild Turkey, Eastern Kingbird, Orchard Oriole Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, small wetland communities, lake © Jeff Lewis
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Yellow-throated Warbler
7 Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – County Line G
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Species of Interest: Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Eastern Kingbird, Scarlet Tanager
Kimball Pt. Rd. Buchanan Store Rd.
Drewry-Va. Line Rd.
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Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 200 County Line Park Road, Manson, NC 27553 Warren/Vance County line 252-438-7791 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: County Line State Recreation Area is located on the eastern shore of Kerr Lake’s Nutbush Arm. Its 285 acres straddle the Vance/ Warren County line. The majority of County Line State Recreation Area is designated for campers, however, there are two areas that can be productive for non-camping birders. One is at the end of County Line Road (SR 1361), which is outside the developed portion of the park. This area can be productive for woodland species, especially during spring migration, but there are no developed trails or restrooms. Reach it by turning left at the stop sign on County Line Road, instead of turning right (as indicated by the signs). Follow the road for about a mile to the dead end. Another area that can be good for
Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, small wetland communities, lake Access & Parking: The campground is open April – September; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. A fee is charged per vehicle daily Memorial Day – Labor Day and on weekends April, May and September. The fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. The entrance fee receipt can be used to enter other areas at Kerr Lake State Recreation Area during the same day for no additional fee. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. The birding areas recommended at this site are outside the gates and are not subject to entrance fees. Directions: From Henderson, take I-85 north to Exit 223. Turn left on Manson Road and go approximately 3 miles to the Drewry Crossroads. Turn right on Drewry-Virginia Line Road. Go approximately 3 miles and turn left on Buchanan Store Road, then right on County Line Road and right again on County Line Park Road. The road dead ends at the State Recreation Area. Coordinates: N 36° 31’ 10” W 78° 19’ 13” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 21
Great Crested Flycatcher
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Northeast Piedmont Group
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viewing birds on and over the water is beside the NC Wildlife Resources Commission Boat Ramp, accessed by following the signs at the entrance area. There is a portable toilet near the boat ramp.
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© Melissa McGaw
Little Blue Heron
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area – Kimball Point I
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Loon, and wintering waterfowl. The picnic shelter offers a good overlook for viewing. The short road to the picnic shelter is found approximately 300 yards past the entrance station on the right.
7
County Line Rd.
Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Common Loon, Orchard Oriole, wintering waterfowl
Kimball Pt. Rd. Buchanan Store Rd.
Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, lake
Drewry-Va. Line Rd.
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Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 460 Kimball Point Road, Manson, NC 27553 Warren County 252-438-7791 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Kimball Point is a narrow peninsula located on the eastern shore of Kerr Lake’s Nutbush Creek arm, just south of the Virginia state line. This unit of Kerr Lake State Recreation Area is 93 acres in size and the majority of the site is designated for camping. Much of the area is maintained open space but there are also loblolly pine forests and some small pockets of hardwoods present. Kimball Point offers expansive views of the lake that allow birders to scan for birds such as gulls, swallows, Common
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Access & Parking: The park is open April – October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May - August; 8am to 7pm, October. A fee is charged per vehicle daily Memorial Day – Labor Day and on weekends April, May and September. The fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. The entrance fee receipt can be used to enter other areas at Kerr Lake State Recreation Area during the same day for no additional fee. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Directions: From Henderson, take I-85 north to Exit 223. Turn left on Manson Road and go approximately 3 miles to the Drewry Crossroads. Turn right on Drewry-Virginia Line Road. Go approximately 4.5 miles and turn left on Kimball Point Road. The road dead-ends at the State Recreation Area. Coordinates: N 36° 32’ 20’ W 78° 19’ 00” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 21
9 Newell Farms Norlina 85
401
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Bobwhite, Wild Turkey and signs of other wildlife in this quiet, secluded area. The trail continues to follow the stream where it reconnects with the entrance trail.
Warrenton
Dr. King Blvd.
Site Information: Owner: Frank Newell 190 Newell Farms Road, Warrenton, NC 27589 Warren County 252-257-1754 or 252-257-5199
About the Site: Birding at Newell Farms provides an opportunity to visit the remote areas of a working cattle farm, managed for natural resource conservation. Be aware that when entering the site at the first gate you will be crossing an active pasture with grazing cattle (they may be hidden from view). Following the signage, cross the open field to a wooded area and continue to a second gated field. Close the gate after passing and follow this marked loop trail to a large open meadow that borders Fishing Creek. Walk along the hillside to view the wetland/ meadow restoration area for wintering waterfowl and Red-headed Woodpecker. Continuing on, the trail enters a hardwood forest that is home to songbirds, woodpeckers and owls. This is a good location to check for migration activity in fall and spring. The forest trail continues over the hill and comes out by a stream with a managed meadow alongside. Watch for Northern
Species of Interest: Wood Duck, Wild Turkey, Northern Bobwhite, Red-headed Woodpecker, Purple Martin, Eastern Bluebird Habitats: pastureland, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, small wetland communities, creek Special Features/Concerns: Newell Farms is also the home of the Eastern Bluebird Rescue Group. Visit the Bluebird Workshop on NC 158, a few blocks west of US 401, in Louisburg, on Saturday or Sunday to purchase a bluebird house and learn more about the Group’s operations. Limited hunting is allowed on the property. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Access & Parking: The site is open daily during daylight hours. Limited parking is available at the access gate on SR 1001. Directions: From Warrenton, at the intersection of US 401 and Franklin Street (SR1001 & Dr. King Boulevard), take Franklin Street 1 mile west toward Henderson and turn on Newell Farms Road. Continue for 0.5 miles to the third turn-off on the right for the marked entrance gate and parking. Coordinates: N 36° 23’ 45” W 78° 10’ 22” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 21
© Chuck Carmack
Eastern Bluebird
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Northeast Piedmont Group
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10 Medoc Mountain State Park Species of Interest: Belted Kingfisher, Great Horned Owl, Barred Owl, Northern Bobwhite, Prairie Warbler 561 561
Wood Rd. (SR1322)
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Northeast Piedmont Group
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 1541 Medoc State Park Road, Hollister, NC 27844 Halifax County 252-586-6588 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Seven hiking trails cover more than 11 miles of terrain throughout Medoc Mountain State Park. Stop by the visitor center to obtain a detailed map of the trail system before heading out. The park’s waterways attract Wood Duck, Green and Great Blue Heron and Belted Kingfisher. The calls of the Red-shouldered Hawk, Great Horned and Barred Owls add music to the forests. Northern Bobwhite, Wild Turkey and nesting songbirds such as Brown Thrasher, Eastern Towhee and Prairie Warbler thrive in the park’s old fields and young forests. Birds attracted by the mature hardwood forests include Wood Thrush, Red-eyed Vireo and various woodpeckers. Other species of interest found within the park’s 3,700 acres include the nocturnal southern flying squirrel, freshwater mussels, and a variety of reptiles and amphibians. There have been sightings of the Neuse River Waterdog in the park’s Little Fishing Creek. This large salamander is found only in the Neuse and Tar River systems. Visitors may bring canoes to access Little Fishing Creek for an enjoyable 2.5-mile journey through the park. At times the creek may be dangerous for canoeing, so please check with park staff to determine water levels.
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Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, floodplain forest, creek Access & Parking: The park is open from 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April, May and September; 8am to 9pm, June – August. The visitor center is open 8am to 5pm, weekdays; hours vary on weekends. Directions: Medoc Mountain State Park is 21 miles southwest of Roanoke Rapids, 23 miles north of Rocky Mount, and 26 miles northeast of Louisburg. From I-95, take Exit 160 at NC 561 west and travel 9 miles to the park. Turn left on SR 1322, which will lead to the park office, on the right. Coordinates: N 36° 15’ 53” W 77° 53’ 15” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 22
© Frank Ripp
Eastern Towhee
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© Lena Gallitano
Franklin County Nature Preserve Louisburg 56
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Site Information: Owner: Allen DeHart 3585 US 401 South, Louisburg, NC 27549 Franklin County 919-496-4771
About the Site: This 88-acre preserve is more reminiscent of the mountains than the eastern piedmont, with numerous large outcrops of granite. The lake and waterfall sections each have 1.8 miles of inviting trails for birding. The lake section features plants from across North Carolina. Enter this section by crossing the small footbridge at the parking lot. The switchback trail meanders along the hillside before coming out on top of a large granite outcrop that provides a view of the small lake. Continue across the lake passing a cut over area where the trail enters the forest along a stream before going uphill to loop back to the lake. Continue on the trail
past the dam to return to the parking lot. The waterfall area trailhead is on the north side of the parking lot. This section remains a natural habitat with entirely native plants. The trail passes through a power line right-of-way and then reenters the forest where it crosses a stream several times. It eventually leads to a small waterfall that flows over a granite outcrop and into a small, shallow lake. Continuing on, the trail loops back to follow the power line and return to the parking lot. Species of Interest: Acadian Flycatcher, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Indigo Bunting Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, early successional, lake and stream Access & Parking: The site is open only on weekends (Saturday and Sunday). Visitors must register at the gazebo before hiking the trails. Trail maps are available at the gazebo. Contact the site manager for hours of operation and possible restrictions. Directions: From the intersection of US 401 and NC 56 in Louisburg, travel south on US 401 for 4.75 miles. The entrance and parking area is on the left. Coordinates: N 36° 01’ 26” W 78° 21’ 14” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 41
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Northeast Piedmont Group
Franklin County Nature Preserve
While You’re In the Area Eastern Bluebird Rescue Group 126 Newell Farms Road Warrenton, NC 27589 252-257-5199 www.easternbluebirdrescuegroup.org HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trail: Hushpuppies, Pimento Cheese & Sweet Tea www.homegrownhandmade.com Vance County Heritage Trail Vance County Tourism Department 946-T West Andrews Avenue Henderson, NC 27536 252-438-2222 www.kerrlake-nc.com
Northeast Piedmont Group
© John Ennis
American Kestrel
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Welcome to the
Caswell-Person Group
T
he landscape of the north-central piedmont is dominated by woodlands interspersed with small pastures. On Caswell Game Land, visitors will find examples of mature hardwood forests, which have become less common in the region. From
the large reservoirs of Person County, to the extensive forestlands of Caswell County, the predominantly rural area offers opportunities to see both mature forest and early-successional bird species, and to explore the local communities that enrich this region of the state.
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Caswell-Person Group
You Are Here
Raleigh 95
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Green Level Burlington Haw River 70 Mebane 100
Graham 87
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Caswell Game Land
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Mayo Park
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1 Caswell Game Land
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Site Information: Owner: NC Wildlife Resources Commission NC 62, south of Yanceyville, NC Caswell County 919-707-0050 www.ncwildlife.org
About the Site: Caswell Game Land spans more than 15,000 acres and includes excellent examples of several piedmont habitats, including floodplain forest, mature oak forest, and pine savannah. Portions of the Game Land are managed for high-quality early successional habitat under the Cooperative Upland habitat Restoration and Enhancement (CURE) program. From the intersection of US 158 and NC 62 in Yanceyville, go south on NC 62 0.3 miles and turn left at a simple drive marked by signage for a public dove hunting area. Drive 0.6 miles, where the road ends by a large field with opportunities to see grassland birds. There is also a pond in the middle of the field with an interesting wetland community below it. Next, return to NC 62 and turn left (south). Continue south on NC 62 for 3.1 miles and turn left onto Burton Chapel Road. At 0.2 miles turn left onto a gravel drive leading to a large barn. Park out of the way and walk into the mature oak-hickory stand located behind the barn. Next, return to NC 62 and turn left (south). After less than 0.1 mile, turn right onto the gravel road at the “Watchable Wildlife” sign and continue 0.5 miles to the parking area and fishing pier on Rabbit Shuffle Pond. The pier serves as a good observation platform for birds using the pond and adjacent hardwood slopes.
Species of Interest: Northern Bobwhite, Eastern Kingbird, Kentucky Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Indigo Bunting Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, floodplain forest, small wetland communities Special Concern: Hunting is allowed on Caswell Game Land during certain times of the year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. A Hunter Camping Area is available on Caswell Game Land during hunting season. Access & Parking: The Game Land can be accessed daily during daylight hours. Parking is available along road shoulders or near gates on the Game Land. During hunting seasons, vehicular access is limited to those roads that are maintained and open for that purpose. Do not block any gates when parking. Directions: There are multiple access points for good birding on Caswell Game Land. From the intersection of NC 62 and US 158 in Yanceyville, take NC 62 south. Access areas into the Game Land (referenced in the Site Description) are at 0.3, 3.1, 3.2, and 3.4 miles south of this intersection. Coordinates: N 36° 21’ 37” W 79° 20’ 06” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 18
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Caswell-Person Group
Yanceyville 158
Prior to the pond, the entrance road passes through a Hunter Camping Area with several primitive camping sites. When unoccupied, these camping sites offer parking opportunities to explore the adjacent upland hardwoods. After returning to NC 62, turn right (south) and proceed 0.2 miles. Park at the next gravel road on your right (be sure not to block the gate). Walk down this road to view areas managed for early successional habitat.
2 Mayo Park
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Caswell-Person Group
Site Information: Owner: Person County Recreation, Arts, and Parks Department 599 Neals Store Road, Roxboro, NC 27573 Person County 336-597-7806 http://mayo.personcounty.net
About the Site: More than 6 miles of land and paddle trails traverse Mayo Park, including nine distinctly named trails, all marked and color-coded with signs. The park observation decks, docks, and trails all provide nice opportunities throughout the year to watch for a variety of bird life. In spring and summer, watch and listen for Summer Tanager, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Great Crested Flycatcher and a variety of warbler species. Winter brings an array of birds to the lake, including Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Northern Pintail, Gadwall and Ruddy Duck. A paddle trail also leaves from the park, giving visitors an opportunity to explore the sights and sounds of Mayo Lake. Program information and trail maps can be picked up from the ranger station/visitor center.
© Jeff Lewis © Lena Gallitano
Indigo Bunting
Species of Interest: Louisiana Waterthrush, Kentucky Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Summer Tanager, Indigo Bunting, wintering waterfowl Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, lake Access & Parking: The park is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From Roxboro, travel 8 miles north on NC 49. Turn left on Neal’s Store Road. Continue for 2 miles and watch for the Mayo Park entrance gate on the left. Coordinates: N 36° 28’ 53” W 78° 52’ 04” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 19, 20
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Brown Thrasher
While You’re In the Area HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trail: Hushpuppies, Pimento Cheese & Sweet Tea www.homegrownhandmade.com Person County Museum of History 309 North Main Street Roxboro, NC 27573 336-597-2884
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Caswell-Person Group
© Frank Ripp
arcus
© Jeff M
Bird survey on Caswell Game Land
Caswell-Person Group © Jeff Le wis
Northern Bobwhite
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Welcome to the
Falls Lake Group
T
he U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Falls Lake Project, completed in 1981, was designed to help control Neuse River flooding and supply a water source for surrounding communities. In addition to countless recreational opportunities, Falls Lake now provides highly variable birding opportunities
year-round. The lake hosts a wide variety of waterfowl in winter and is a productive destination for viewing Bald Eagle. The boundaries of the 12,000-acre lake are largely protected through various public ownerships, and a portion of the statewide Mountains-to-Sea Trail passes by the western shore.
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Falls Lake Group
You Are Here
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You Are Here
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Falls Lake Group 1
Falls Lake Trail
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Blue Jay Point County Park
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Falls Lake State Recreation Area – Holly Point/Shinleaf
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Falls Lake State Recreation Area – Woodpecker Ridge
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Falls Lake State Recreation Area – Beaverdam Reservoir
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Falls Lake State Recreation Area – Sandling Beach
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Falls Lake State Recreation Area – Rollingview
1 Falls Lake Trail Old NC 98
1 Falls of Neuse Rd.
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Site Information: Contact: NC Wildlife Resources Commission, NC Division of Parks and Recreation, Wake County Parks and Recreation (joint managers), US Army Corps of Engineers (owner) South shore of Falls Lake, north of Raleigh, NC Wake County 919-676-1027 (Falls Lake State Rec. Area), 919-846-9332 (US Army Corps of Engineers), 919-707-0050 (NCWRC Raleigh Office) www.ncmst.org/fallsmap.pdf, www.saw.usace.army.mil/falls/ contact_us1.htm
The Falls Lake Trail begins at the Falls Lake US Army Corps of Engineers Visitor and Management Center and extends for 25 miles in Wake County along the south shore of Falls Lake, to the NC Division of Parks and Recreation Visitor Center. Plans exist to extend the trail into Durham County and eventually to Eno River State Park. The trail is divided into 10 segments of 1-3 miles lengths, which are part of the Mountains-to-Sea-Trail system. The route explores a variety of habitats. Sections of the trail that parallel the lakeshore offer opportunities for viewing wintering waterfowl, Osprey, and Bald Eagle. When the lake level is down, there is excellent birding for shorebirds and wading birds, especially in late summer. Birding for migrating songbirds is good during spring and fall, and summer offers chances to view breeding songbirds such as Acadian Flycatcher, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Red-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos, Scarlet and Summer Tanagers, Wood Thrush, Ovenbird, Yellow-throated Warbler, as well as six woodpecker species. Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Great Crested Flycatcher, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Prothonotary Warbler, Hooded Warbler, wintering waterfowl Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, floodplain forest, small wetland communities Special Concern: The Falls Lake Trail passes through portions of the Butner-Falls of Neuse Game Land, where hunting is allowed during certain times of the year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Access & Parking: The Falls Lake Trail can be accessed during daylight hours. Parking is available at either end of the trail, and at multiple trail heads along the way. Visit the
© Jeff Lemons
Yellow -bellied Sapsucker
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Falls Lake Group
About the Site:
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(continued) Mountains to Sea Trail website, www.ncmst. org/fallsmap.pdf, for a map of the trail segments. The Falls Lake Visitor Assistance Center is open year-round on weekdays, 8am to 4pm; on weekends between April and October, 8am to 5:30pm; closed on weekends, November – March. Directions: To access the southern end of the trail at the Falls Lake Management Center (dam), follow NC 98 west from the intersection of US 1 in Wake Forest for approximately 0.75 miles. Turn left on Old NC 98 (SR 1967) and continue another 0.75 miles. Turn left on Falls of Neuse Road and follow it ap-
proximately 3.25 miles to the Management Center entrance. To access the northern end of the trail at the NC Division of Parks and Recreation Visitor Center, follow NC 98 west from the intersection of US 1 in Wake Forest for approximately 8.5 miles. Turn right (north) on NC 50 toward Creedmoor and continue for approximately 1.5 miles. The trail head is located on the east side of the road, just past the entrance to the park office. Coordinates: N 35° 56’ 30” W 78° 34’ 54” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
2 Falls Lake Group
Blue Jay Point County Park to Holly Point
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(Shinleaf) New Light Rd.
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Sandy Point and Blue Jay Point Trails lead to the shore of Falls Lake where Osprey are common during summer and migration. These routes also offer chances to see gulls, terns and wading birds during winter. Both the Sparkleberry and Azalea Loop Trails are nice, short
Pleasant Union Church Rd. Six Forks Rd.
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Site Information: Owner: Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space Department 3200 Pleasant Union Church Road, Raleigh, NC 27614 Wake County 919-870-4330 www.wakegov.com/parks/bluejay/
About the Site: More than 120 bird species have been documented at this 236-acre park that has a primary focus of environmental education. Park attractions include 5 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, a playground and open-play fields. The upland areas offer opportunities to view both Summer and Scarlet Tanagers during summer, and a variety of woodpeckers year-round. The
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© Frank Ripp
Pileated Woodpeckers
Species of Interest: Great Crested Flycatcher, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, woodpeckers Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, mesic forest, lake Special Feature: Songbird Celebration, a day-long bird festival with classes, hikes and activities for all ages takes place annually
the last Saturday of April. Year-round environmental education programs, mostly for school children, are offered. Access & Parking: The site is open daily 8am to sunset. The visitor center is open daily, 8am to 5pm. Directions: From the I-440 Beltline, take Exit 8 (Six Forks Road) north. Stay on Six Forks Road for 8 miles and watch for the left-hand turn it makes in the community of Bayleaf. Just under 1 mile after the turn, Six Forks Road will cross a fork of Falls Lake. After this crossing, watch for the intersection of Pleasant Union Church Road. Turn right on Pleasant Union Church Road, which leads to the entrance of Blue Jay Point County Park. Coordinates: N 35° 58’ 06” W 78° 38’ 37” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
Falls Lake Group
walks for migrating songbirds during spring and fall. Open areas of the park are best for raptors, and there is a bluebird box trail that runs around the perimeter of the open-play fields. The bird feeder demonstration area around the Blue Jay Center is a productive spot year-round for casual birding at the beginning or end of the day. Here you can enjoy birding from the comfort of a rocking chair!
© Frank Ripp
Northern Cardinals
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3 Falls Lake State Recreation Area – Holly Point/Shinleaf to Holly Point
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Falls Lake Group
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks New Light Road, off NC 98, north of Raleigh Wake County 919-676-1027 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Holly Point and Shinleaf Recreation Areas are located in the southeast end of Falls Lake. This section of the lake is very narrow and resembles the river the lake once was. Wild Turkey are common at both Shinleaf and Holly Point. In winter, Bonaparte’s Gull forage along the lakeshore and can be seen perched on the Holly Point boat ramp poles. Winter irruptive species, such as Red-breasted Nuthatch and Pine Siskin, can be seen in the areas’ many camping loops. The boat ramp at Holly Point is a good spot to witness warbler fallouts when the weather is right. Broad-winged Hawk nest in the inner reaches of the park and can be heard
from the hiking trails. Eastern Kingbird patrol each beach area, and Ovenbird are numerous in the interior forests. At Shinleaf Recreation Area, watch for Barred Owl during any time of day. Yellow-billed Cuckoo and other migrating songbirds can be seen here, including Graycheeked Thrush and Indigo Bunting. New Light Road Bridge over Falls Lake is a good place to view Bald Eagle, Osprey, gulls, and Cliff and Barn Swallows seasonally. From the bridge, walk northwest through a small field to a beaver-dammed creek for chances to see Louisiana Waterthrush and Pileated Woodpecker. Species of Interest: Bonaparte’s Gull, Broad-winged Hawk, Bald Eagle, Osprey, Cliff Swallow Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, small wetland communities, lake Special Concern: Some facilities may close at certain times of the year. Contact the park office for updated information. Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. The park visitor center is open 8am to 5pm, Monday – Friday, October – April; 8am to 5pm, daily, May –September. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Shinleaf and Holly Point Recreation Areas are for campers only, so day-use access may not be allowed during summer weekends and holidays. Directions: From the intersection of NC 98 and NC 50, take NC 98 east for 1.5 miles to the first stoplight. Turn left on New Light Road. After 0.5, miles watch for the Shinleaf Recreation Area entrance on the right. At 1 mile, cross New Light Bridge. The entrance to Holly Point Recreation Area is 1.0 miles farther on the right. Coordinates: N 35° 59’ 41” W 78° 39’ 20” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
© Phil Rhyne
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Common Merganser
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Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks NC 50 (Creedmoor Road), north of Raleigh Wake County 919-676-1027 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Situated in between the widest part of Falls Lake and NC 50, the habitat diversity and arrangement of land at Woodpecker Ridge produces excellent birding opportunities. Many hours can be spent exploring the numerous fire lines and trails. Spring migration is the most interesting time of year to bird here, with over 20 warbler species and a variety of vireos and thrushes possible. Numerous songbirds nest throughout the area, with a single stop producing over 30 calling birds. Osprey nest along the shore and Bald Eagle can be seen as well. Cavity nesters abound in the many snags created by the prescribed burns, and Wild Turkey populations are on the rise. In winter, the secluded lakeshore offers good viewing for a variety of waterfowl. In late winter, Great Horned Owl begin nesting in the interior forest. Nearby, the NC 50 boat ramp is a worthwhile vantage point for viewing grebes and waterfowl in winter. A variety of warblers can be seen from the parking lots. Belted Kingfisher nest on the steep slopes near the spillway, and Barn and Cliff Swallows nest under the NC 50 Bridge.
Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Wild Turkey, Great Horned Owl, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Red-headed Woodpecker, wintering waterfowl Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, dry coniferous woodlands Special Concern: There are no developed facilities at Woodpecker Ridge. Restrooms are available across the street at the Highway 50 Boat Ramp Recreation Area. The fire lines and roads are unmarked and numerous. Access & Parking: Park by the Woodpecker Ridge Management Area sign, across from the NC Highway 50 Boat Ramp Recreation Area. To the right of the sign for Woodpecker Ridge Management Area is a fire line leading into the complex. The site is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: Take NC 50 (Creedmoor Road) north from Raleigh. Just north of the main bridge across Falls Lake, watch for a sign for the Highway 50 Boat Ramp Recreation Area. Park across the road, near the Woodpecker Ridge Management Area sign. Coordinates: N 36° 01’ 24” W 78° 41’ 43” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
© Jeff Lewis
Red-bellied Woodpecker
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Falls Lake Group
Falls Lake State Recreation Area – Woodpecker Ridge
5 Falls Lake State Recreation Area – Beaverdam Reservoir
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Falls Lake Group
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks NC 50 (Creedmoor Road), north of Raleigh Wake County 919-676-1027 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Beaverdam Reservoir is separated from Falls Lake by a small spillway. The spillway and adjacent amenities are part of the Highway 50 Boat Ramp Recreation Area. The Old Weaver Causeway offers viewing of waterfowl, as well as Bonaparte’s and other gulls, in the winter. Loggerhead Shrike, American Woodcock, and Northern Bobwhite can be seen during the day near the fields by Old Beaverdam Road. Eastern Screech-Owl, Chuck-will’s-widow and Whip-poor-will can be heard there at night. Cliff and Barn Swallows nest under the bridge at the causeway, while Orchard Oriole nest along the forest edges nearby. Look for wading birds at the north end of the causeway. Chimney Swift nest in most picnic shelter chimneys, and in wooden Chimney Swift Nest Towers. From the Highway 50 Boat Ramp Recreation Area, you can access the spillway in winter to watch for waterfowl and Bald Eagle. Mixed flocks of loons, grebes and mergansers can be viewed here during the winter. Belted Kingfisher nest in the steep bank southwest of the causeway.
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Species of Interest: Northern Bobwhite, American Woodcock, Loggerhead Shrike, Chuck-will’s-widow, Orchard Oriole
Access & Parking: Beaverdam Reservoir is separated from Falls Lake by a small spillway. The spillway and adjacent fishing area and boat ramp are part of the Highway 50 Boat Ramp Recreation Area. The western side of the lake is part of the Beaverdam Recreation Area. The eastern side and the northern ends are Game Lands. Old Weaver Road Causeway crosses the northern portion of the reservoir. Parking is available on the causeway and at the intersection of Old Beaverdam Road. The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. The park visitor center is open 8am to 5pm, Monday – Friday, October – April; 8am to 5pm, daily, May – September. From April – September, the weekend fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Some facilities may close at certain times of the year. Contact the park office for updated information. Directions: Beaverdam Reservoir can be accessed from a number of Falls Lake State Recreation Area access points. Take NC 50 (Creedmoor Road) north from Raleigh. The Highway 50 Boat Ramp Recreation Area is located just north of the bridge at Falls Lake. Almost 2 miles north on NC 50 is the entrance to the Beaverdam Recreation Area. Another 2 miles north turn right on Old Weaver Road to the causeway and east side lake access. Coordinates: N 36° 02’ 32” W 78° 41’ 02” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40 © Michael McCloy
Common Nighthawk and chick
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Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks NC 50 (Creedmoor Road), north of Raleigh Wake County 919-676-1027 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: When you beat the crowds, Sandling Beach is a good birding destination. This state park has a popular swimming area that receives large numbers of visitors during the summer. The main park road parallels the lake with several parking and access areas. Sandling Beach occupies the eastern side of the widest part of Falls Lake, resulting in good opportunities to view birds on the water. Mixed flocks of ducks, loons, grebes and mergansers are easily viewed during the winter. Gulls are present on the lake from winter through spring, and flock numbers peak in mid-winter at over 15,000. Spring brings a variety of shorebirds and several Caspian Terns to the swim beach. Indigo Bunting sing in the fields while Eastern Kingbird, Great Crested Flycatcher and Osprey patrol the shoreline property. Bald Eagle can be seen any time of year in flight or perched. Wild Turkey can be seen quite reliably throughout the year and nest in several areas of the park. Chimney Swift nest in the chimneys of the picnic shelters.
Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. The park visitor center is open 8am to 5pm, Monday – Friday, October – April; 8am to 5pm, daily, May – September. From April – September, the weekend fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Some facilities may close at certain times of the year. Contact the park office for updated information. Directions: Take NC 50 (Creedmoor Road) north from Raleigh. Approximately 2 miles north of the bridge over Falls Lake, turn left into the park. There is a map display at the entrance. Coordinates: N 36° 02’ 21” W 78° 42’ 39” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
© Harry Sell
Red-Shouldered Hawk
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Falls Lake Group
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Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Wild Turkey, Great Crested Flycatcher, Indigo Bunting, wintering waterfowl
© Mark Buckler
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Northern Shoveler
Falls Lake State Recreation Area – Rollingview Falls Lake Group
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Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, American Wigeon, Gadwall, American Black Duck
Baptist Rd.
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Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks Baptist Road, off NC 98, east of Durham Durham County 919-676-1027 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Rollingview is a peninsula in the middle of Falls Lake, dividing its deep southeastern side from the shallow northwestern end. This dividing point provides for a good diversity of birds. The Rollingview Recreation Area and Marina at the end of the peninsula has a large campground and day-use area. Rollingview is probably the best place to view Bald Eagle at Falls Lake. Eagles can be seen from most areas, especially across from or on the tip of the peninsula. The B-loop fishing pier in the campground is a great place to scan the lake for waterfowl in winter. Be sure to time your visit on a day when duck hunting is not
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allowed, as this site is popular with hunters. Common duck species include Mallard, American Black Duck, American Wigeon, Gadwall, and many diving ducks. The topography turns the Rollingview point into a great fallout zone for spring and fall migrants. Watch for gulls and terns from the boat ramp and point area during migration.
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, lake Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. The park visitor center is open 8am to 5pm, Monday – Friday, October – April; 8am to 5pm, daily, May –September. From April – September, the weekend fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Some facilities may close at certain times of the year. Contact the park office for updated information. Directions: From US 98 east of Durham, turn north on Baptist Road and follow it until it dead-ends at the park. Once you enter the park, turn right for the marina or stay straight to get out to the point. Coordinates: N 36° 01’ 22” W 78° 43’ 40” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
s
© Jeff Lemon
Falls Lake Group
Osprey
While You’re In the Area Falls Lake Visitor Assistance Center 11405 Falls of Neuse Road Wake Forest, NC 27587 919-846-9332 x 224 http://saw.usace.army.mil/falls
© Mark Buck
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Wake Forest College Birthplace Museum 414 N. Main Street Wake Forest, NC 27588 919-556-2911 www.wakeforestbirthplace.org
Redhead
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Falls Lake Group © Phil Rhyne
Copper’s Hawk
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Welcome to the
Orange-Durham Group excellent access. Interspersed throughout are museums, visitor centers, and cultural learning options that augment the birding sites. The group offers consistently varied birding yearround, while also providing educational and cultural opportunities for the entire family.
Orange-Durham Group
T
here are abundant and diverse birding destinations within this region of North Carolina that also includes some of the most urbanized parts of the piedmont. Managed forests, riparian corridors, and unique natural areas yield outstanding birding with
You Are Here
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Orange-Durham Group 1
Hill Forest
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Little River Regional Park and Natural Area
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Eno River State Park
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Indian Trail Park - West Ellerbe Creek Trail/ 17 Acre Wood
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Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area
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Johnston Mill Nature Preserve
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Duke Forest
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Mason Farm Biological Reserve
1 Hill Forest Moore’s Mill Rd.
1 State Forest Rd.
Species of Interest: Wood Thrush, Kentucky Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Indigo Bunting Habitats: mixed hardwood/pine forest, early successional, floodplain forest
Gates Rd.
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Site Information: Owner: NC State University, College of Natural Resources 915 State Forest Road, Rougemont, NC 27572 Durham County 919-515-7576 http://natural-resources.ncsu.edu/for/dept/ hilldemo.html
About the Site: Forest management operations on the 2,450acre property attract a diversity of birds year round. Regenerating timber harvests attract early-succession songbirds like Yellow-breasted Chat and Prairie Warbler. Eastern Wood-Pewee and Summer Tanager nest in the open stands of pine timber. Kentucky and Hooded Warblers and Louisiana Waterthrush are common along the Flat River floodplain. These species, together with Acadian Flycatcher, Wood Thrush, and Scarlet Tanager, are easily viewed around Camp Slocum located adjacent to the river. Blue-headed Vireo occur in one of the species’ easternmost nesting locales. Birders should be able to see or hear breeding Grasshopper Sparrow in the pastures on both sides of State Forest Road near the intersection with Moore’s Mill Road. An incredible diversity of songbirds passes through the forest during migration, especially in the spring. In the spring and summer, Wild Turkey and possibly Northern Bobwhite can be seen foraging in the old-field habitats scattered around the forest. Birding usually is excellent along State Forest Road, which offers convenient access to a majority of Hill Forest’s habitats and bird species.
Special Concern: Birding and non-hunting recreation is open throughout the year, except during firearm season for deer and turkey. Forest management operations and university educational activities always have first priority and precedence for the property. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Access & Parking: Parking is allowed along county roads throughout the property. Do not block gates. The site is open from 1 hour before sunrise to 1 hour after sunset. ATV access is prohibited. Directions: Hill Forest is 12 miles north of Durham (from the I-85 exit) and 2 miles south of Rougemont, along US 501. Traveling north on US 501, turn right onto Moore’s Mill Road (first right after Quail Roost Road, SR 1601). Go 0.2 miles to State Forest Road. State Forest Road is not marked, but there is a wooden sign marked “Hill Forest” at the intersection. The property begins about 0.5 miles down the State Forest Road. Coordinates: N 36° 11’ 57” W 78° 53’ 43” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 19
© Chris Moorman
Kentucky Warbler
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Orange-Durham Group
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Orange-Durham Group
Site Information: Owner: Orange and Durham Counties 301 Little River Park Way, Rougemont, NC 27572 Orange/Durham County line 919-732-5505 www.co.orange.nc.us/RecParks/little_river_ park.asp
About the Site: Little River Regional Park is a 391-acre park created from a cooperative project between Orange and Durham Counties, with assistance from the Triangle Land Conservancy, Eno River Association, and other organizations. A designated 0.6-mile birding trail starts at the park office and passes through several different habitats. There are also 7 miles of hiking trails and 7 miles of single track mountain biking trails. Maps of the trails are available at the park office. Eastern Bluebird and Northern Mockingbird can be seen along the power lines. Look for Carolina Wren, sparrows, and Indigo Bunting in early successional habitats. The oak forest and mixed hardwood/pine areas are home to permanent residents like Carolina Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, Northern Cardinal, and Pileated Woodpecker. During summer Wood Thrush and Ovenbird serenade you along trails. Red-eyed Vireo and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher are common. American Redstart, Yellow-throated Warbler, and Summer Tanager are songbirds you can expect to encounter. Red-shouldered and Cooper’s Hawks can
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be seen flying overhead or perched in trees. Around the parking area a butterfly garden and feeders attract Ruby-throated Hummingbird and American Goldfinch. Species of Interest: Brown-headed Nuthatch, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Fox Sparrow, Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, floodplain forest, river Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 5pm, November – February; 8am to 6pm, March and October; 8am to 7pm, April and September; 8am to 8pm, May – August. Directions: From Durham, take the Guess Road/NC 157 (Exit 175) exit off I-85. Follow Guess Road north and look for the park entrance on the right 1.1 miles into Orange County (about 10.1 miles from the I-85 exit). Coordinates: N 36° 09’ 42” W 78° 58’ 30” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 19
© Jeff Lewis
White-throated Sparrow
© Bryce Fleming, NC State Parks
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Eno River State Park
lined bluffs. The park’s varied habitats create opportunities to see a diversity of birds. More than 150 species of birds have been recorded at the park, 62 of which are likely breeders. There have been 31 warbler species, alone, recorded in the park. A wildlife checklist is available from the park office.
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Pleasant Green Rd.
Cole Mill Rd.
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Exit 170 Exit 173
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 6101 Cole Mill Road, Durham, NC 27705 Orange, Durham Counties 919-383-1686 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Eno River State Park is 4,131 acres of rugged and varied piedmont terrain. The park has approximately 24 miles of trails, opportunities for river fishing, picnicking, backcountry camping, nature programs, seasonal canoeing and kayaking. See the park map for information on distance and difficulty. The centerpiece of the park is the 14.5 miles of the Eno River and its chain of shallow and rocky riffles and pools. Hike the Cox Mountain Trail for a challenging climb through a hardwood forest. Travel along Bobbitt Hole Trail to one of the most scenic spots in the park, a place where water rushes around rocks and greenery overhangs stone-
Species of Interest: Black Vulture, Pileated Woodpecker, Kentucky Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Scarlet Tanager Habitats: Oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, floodplain forest, river Access & Parking: The park is open from 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. Pleasant Green and Cabe Lands access areas open at 8:30am and Cole Mill access area opens at 9:00 am. All three areas close 30 minutes earlier than the main gate. Directions: From Southbound I-85, take Exit 173 northwest onto Cole Mill Road, which ends at the park. From Northbound I-85, take Exit 170 to US 70 west. Turn right on Pleasant Green Road and then left on Cole Mill Road, which ends at the park. Coordinates: N 36° 04’ 40” W 79° 00’ 25” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
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Orange-Durham Group
Eno River State Park
4 Indian Trail Park - West Ellerbe Creek Trail/17 Acre Wood 4
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Hillandale Rd. Rd. Hillandale
Durham
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Orange-Durham Group
Site Information: Owner: Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association Indian Trail, Durham, NC Durham County 919-698-8161 www.ellerbecreek.org
About the Site: This small woodland preserve is an excellent migrant trap that routinely hosts a variety of migrating warblers. With sightings of approximately 115 species, including 26 species of warbler, Ellerbe Creek is a good place to explore when time is limited. From the park-
ing area, follow the paved trail south past the play area, to the footbridge over the creek. Just beyond the footbridge is the intersection of the West Ellerbe Creek Trail. This flat paved trail extends eastward, where, after crossing Albany Street, it passes through a rich patch of floodplain forest that includes the Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association’s 17 Acre Wood Preserve. The preserve has two well marked nature trail loops. The nature trails meander through moist floodplain forest and connect back to the main paved trail that follows the creek. The creek is easily visible from the paved trail and the riparian habitat hosts both resident and migrating birds. The trail ends after approximately 0.3 miles at Westover Park, where additional parking is available. An information kiosk just east of Albany Avenue has overview maps and a seasonal bird checklist, as well as information on plant communities and other wildlife. Occasionally, guided bird walks are sponsored by the Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association. Species of Interest: Great Crested Flycatcher, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Wood Thrush Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, creek Access & Parking: The site is open year round during daylight hours. Directions: From the intersection of I-85 and Hillandale Road (Exit 174), travel south on Hillandale for 0.3 miles to Indian Trail. Turn left (east) and travel 0.3 miles to the parking lot on the right. Coordinates: N 35° 01’ 28” W 78° 55’ 45” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
© Jeff Lewis
Black-throated Green Warbler
50
5 Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area Species of Interest: Black Vulture, Pileated Woodpecker, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Blue Grosbeak
Hillsborough
70
40
Exit 164
85
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks Virginia Cates Road, Hillsborough, NC 27278 Orange County 919-383-1686 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: The best sunset view in the Triangle region is from the Occoneechee Mountain overlook. This monadnock is the highest point in Orange County, with the summit at 867 feet above mean sea level and about 350 feet above the Eno River. There are 190 acres of mountainous terrain in this piedmont park, including heath bluffs and cliffs. The relatively undisturbed forest of the ridge top includes one of the best chestnut oak stands in the region. Offered are scenic views, hiking trails, pond and river fishing, picnicking, and nature programs. Many interesting and even unusual birds can be found within the Natural Area, including wintering Common Raven and Brown Creeper. Black-throated Blue Warbler is a common migrant. Summer and Scarlet Tanagers can be expected, as well as a variety of other songbirds. A birding checklist is available through the Eno River State Park office.
Access & Parking: The park is open from 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. Directions: From I-85, take Exit 164. Travel north on Churton Street, and turn left at the stoplight on Mayo Street. At the next stop sign, turn left on Orange Grove Road. Turn right on Virginia Cates Road, and follow the signs to the parking area.
Orange-Durham Group
5
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, river, small wetland communities
Coordinates: N 36° 03’ 38” W 79° 07’ 01” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
© Jeff Lemons
Red-Shouldered Hawk
51
6 Johnston Mill Nature Preserve Mt. Sinai Rd.
6
Whitfield Rd.
86 Turkey Farm Rd. 40
86
Erwin Rd.
7
Chapel Hill
501 15
Site Information: Owner: Triangle Land Conservancy Mt. Sinai Road, Chapel Hill, NC Orange County 919-833-3662 www.tlc-nc.org
Orange-Durham Group
About the Site: The Johnston Mill Nature Preserve protects land along the New Hope Creek corridor. The trail is 1.5 miles long, with an optional 1-mile loop. Start the hike from the Mt. Sinai Road parking area. At the overlook scan for Red-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos and migrants. Cutting through the preserve are two transmission powerlines. A side trip to the west along the occasionally mowed right-of-way provides access to edge thicket habitat. Look for Indigo
Bunting and Yellow-breasted Chat. Return to the main trail. After crossing the Pullman-Ryals Bridge, a spur to the left leads to the confluence of Old Field Creek and New Hope Creek. Check for Hooded Warbler in summer, and sparrows and Hermit Thrush in winter. At the junction a 1-mile loop trail heads uphill, where you can search for Yellow-billed Cuckoo, tanagers, woodpeckers, and migrants. After the loop, the main trail crosses a bridge over Booth Branch. Listen for Pileated Woodpecker, and search for Kentucky Warbler in summer. Winter Wrens are possible during winter. Soon the woods transition to pine, a favorite habitat of Pine Warbler and Brown-headed Nuthatch. The Turkey Farm Road parking area is just ahead. If you did not opt to leave a car here, retrace your steps to Mt. Sinai. Species of Interest: Brown-headed Nuthatch, Kentucky Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Indigo Bunting, Blue Grosbeak Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwood/pine, floodplain forest, creek Access & Parking: The preserve is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From I-40 West, take Exit 266 and head north on NC 86. There are two entries and parking lots for the preserve. For the first, turn right (east) off NC 86 after 0.2 miles on Whitfield Road. Drive 1 mile, then turn left on Turkey Farm Road. After 1 mile, and just before a narrow bridge over New Hope Creek, there is a parking area on the left, marked with a Triangle Land Conservancy sign. The second entry is accessed by driving 1 mile north of US 40 on NC 86, to Mt. Sinai Road. Turn right (east) and continue for 1 mile. Parking, denoted with Triangle Land Conservancy signs, is on the right just before New Hope Creek Bridge.
© David Kilpatrick
Pine Warbler
52
Coordinates: N 35° 59’ 43” W 79° 03’ 15” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
7 Duke Forest
Erwin Rd.
7
Chapel Hill
Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, early successional, mesic forest 501
Special Features: Duke Forest contains many other access areas that provide extensive opportunities for birding. For more detailed information on other sites to visit at Duke Forest, visit www.env.duke.edu/forest/ or http://tbg.carolinanature.com/durham. html
15
Site Information: Owner: Duke University Whitfield Road, west of Durham, NC Orange, Durham Counties 919-613-8014 www.env.duke.edu/forest/
About the Site: With over 7,000 acres of land, Duke Forest provides extensive teaching, research and recreational opportunities along its network of roads and fire trails. The Korstian Division trail is popular with local birders and passes several research plots that are marked with informational signs. Beginning at Gate 24, the Wooden Bridge Road gravel trail runs deep into the forest over rolling hills where, in winter, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Brown Creeper and Hermit Thrush may be found. The trail passes a clear-cut that is a good location to scan edges and new growth for Yellow-breasted Chat, Blue Grosbeak and other species during summer. The trail first crosses New Hope Creek with a footbridge but continuing on, it loops back across the creek at a concrete dam that is often underwater but fordable. During migration, linger and check the vegetation at the creek crossings for thrushes and warblers. The main trail continues uphill through oak-hickory forest before reaching Gate 25 at Whitfield Road and the roadside path leading back to the parking lot. © Jeff Lewis
Access & Parking: The site is open year round during daylight hours. From the parking lot, walk past the fire station along Whitfield Road for a short distance to the driveway leading to Gate 24 to access the trail. This trail can be birded as a 4 mile loop, although to do so requires a half mile walk along Whitfield Road at the end to return to the parking lot. A number of spurs and side trails can be confusing so birders are encouraged to purchase a map before visiting. Directions: From the intersection of US 15-501 Bypass and NC 751 west of Durham, take NC 751 north, away from the Duke Campus. At the roundabout, go south (left) on Erwin Road for 3.3 miles. At the Whitfield Road traffic light, turn right and travel 1.3 miles to the parking lot of the New Hope Fire Station/Community Center. Park in the upper lot by the community center, away from the emergency vehicle entrance. People using the New Hope Community Center have priority parking privileges, so if a group of more than 2 cars is expected, please contact Sue Whitfield (919-4893779) at the Community Center ahead of time. Coordinates: N 35° 58’ 40” W 79° 01’ 44” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39 Blue Grosbeak
53
Orange-Durham Group
Whitfield Rd.
86 Turkey Farm Rd. 40
86
Species of Interest: Red-headed Woodpecker, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Blue Grosbeak
Mt. Sinai Rd.
6
8 Mason Farm Biological Reserve 86
40
placed near the trail. To learn more about the rich history and wildlife of the Reserve read John Terres’ From Laurel Hill to Siler’s Bog: The Walking Adventures of a Naturalist.
54 501 15 Old Mason Farm Rd.
8
Orange-Durham Group
Site Information: Owner: North Carolina Botanical Garden, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Old Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill, NC Orange County 919-962-0522 http://ncbg.unc.edu/pages/41/
About the Site:
©
Je
ff L
ew
is
Mason Farm Biological Reserve is a 367-acre tract managed by the North Carolina Botanical Garden for long-term ecological research, teaching, and for the quiet enjoyment of nature. Biologists have discovered a rich diversity of 216 species of birds and 800 species of plants. Birders can walk a 2-mile loop around the Reserve. Look for Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-breasted Chat, Field Sparrow, and Indigo Bunting during breeding season. White-throated and Swamp Sparrows are common in winter. The Big Oak Woods bottomland forest swamp area of the preserve is home to Barred Owl, Pileated and Downy Woodpeckers, Wood Thrush, and Hooded and Kentucky Warblers. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker can be found during winter. Listen and watch for Eastern Phoebe, Eastern Wood-Pewee, and Summer Tanager. Check the skies for soaring Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks. Bluebird boxes are
54
Common Yellowthroat
Species of Interest: Kentucky Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwood/ pine, early successional, floodplain forest, small wetland communities Special Concern: The road into Mason Farm may be inaccessible during high water events following a heavy rain. Access & Parking: A permit (free) and a gate card (free to NC Botanical Garden members, $5 otherwise) are required for entry into the Mason Farm Biological Reserve. Permits can be picked up at the North Carolina Botanical Garden’s Totten Center and must be carried during visits. Mason Farm is open daily during daylight hours. The Totten Center is open 8am to 5pm, Monday- Saturday; 1pm to 5pm, Sunday. Directions: From I-40 West, take the US 15/501 South exit. After the intersection of NC 54, turn left on Old Mason Farm Road and watch for the brown Botanical Garden sign. To pick up a permit, turn right into the Botanical Garden parking lot. To reach Mason Farm, continue on this road until you see Finley Golf Course. Just before the road makes a sharp turn to the left, turn right into what looks like a parking lot behind the building on the corner. Follow the edge of the parking lot and turn right at the practice green. After continuing a short distance, bear right again, just past the little cemetery, to the entrance. Follow the gravel road approximately 0.25 miles and turn right to cross the ford to the visitor center parking lot. Coordinates: N 35° 53’ 32” W 79° 00’ 59” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
While You’re In the Area
© Jeff Le wis
Chestnut-sided Warbler
Orange-Durham Group
Duke University Lemur Center 3705 Erwin Road Durham, NC 27705 919-489-3364 www.lemur.duke.edu HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trail: Potters’ Wheels & Organic Fields www.homegrownhandmade.com Morehead Planetarium 250 East Franklin Street Chapel Hill, NC 27599 919-962-1236 www.moreheadplanetarium.org (continues)
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Orange-Durham Group
© Jeff Le wis
Pine Siskin
56
Museum of Life and Science 433 W Murray Avenue Durham, NC 27704 919-220-5429 www.ncmls.org Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University 2001 Campus Drive Durham, NC 27705 919-684-5135 www.nasher.duke.edu
Welcome to the
Greater Raleigh Group and natural areas. Visiting birders will find a wide array of sites to explore during their travels in the area. From disjunct hemlock stands to meadows, creeks, rivers and lakes, this vibrant urban center provides habitat niches for a wide variety of bird species and great viewing opportunities.
Greater Raleigh Group
A
s the state’s capital, the city of Raleigh abounds with cultural learning opportunities that complement the many natural areas nearby. Downtown near the government center are history and natural science museums; the state art museum is just a short drive to the west. Throughout the greater Raleigh area, greenways connect parks
You Are Here 77
Raleigh Raleig 95
© Betty Anderson, NC State Parks
57
Wake Forest
147
Durham
540
Rolesville 1
2
401 1
50
751
70 54
Morrisville 3
440
40
4 5
Raleigh 64
55
Knightdale
Cary 6 9 40
440
64
Apex
13 10
12
Garner
11
1
70
7
8
401
40
Holly Springs
50
Clayton
14
FuquayVarina
42
0
55
5 Miles
Greater Raleigh Group 1
Durant Nature Park
2
William B. Umstead State Park
3
Lake Crabtree County Park
4
Schenck Forest
5
Prairie Ridge Ecostation for Wildlife & Learning
12 Swift Creek Bluffs
6
Anderson Point Park
13 Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
7
Clemmons Educational State Forest
14 Harris Lake County Park
58
8
Lake Benson Park
9
Lake Johnson
10 Historic Yates Mill County Park 11 Lake Wheeler
1
© Frank Ripp
American Goldfinch
Durant Rd.
540
1
1
401
Site Information: Owner: City of Raleigh Parks and Recreation Department 8305 Camp Durant Road, Raleigh, NC 27614 Wake County 919-870-2871 www.parks.raleighnc.gov
About the Site: This 237-acre suburban nature park has 5 miles of trails that take visitors through a variety of woodland habitats and around small lakes. Trail maps can be found at kiosks, the park office, and posted at major trail intersections. The South Lakeside and Border Trails are good for spying spring wildflowers and ferns, and offer nice birding opportunities year-round. The Border Trail is a good choice for birding during spring and summer, and is the most productive route for morning visits.
The Upper Lake is a good spot to bird anytime of year, especially for woodpeckers. The creek bordering Secret Creek Trail is dependable for songbirds during migration periods. Occasionally, waterfowl can be seen in winter and during migration periods on the lakes. There are bird and butterfly gardens near the Training Lodge that are good places to watch for Ruby-throated Hummingbird and American Goldfinch during spring and summer. Several bird boxes are maintained by park staff. Species of Interest: Great Crested Flycatcher, Summer Tanager, Indigo Bunting, migrating songbirds Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, small wetland communities, lake Access & Parking: The site is open daily 8am to sunset. Directions: From Raleigh, take Capital Boulevard/US 1 North. One mile past the I-540 interchange, turn left on Durant Road. After 0.5 miles, turn left on Camp Durant Road. Follow Camp Durant Road until it dead ends into the park. Coordinates: N 35° 53’ 41” W 78° 34’ 43” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
59
Greater Raleigh Group
Durant Nature Park
2
© Frank Ripp
Eastern Bluebirds
William B. Umstead State Park ter, a wide variety of migratory waterfowl visit Big Lake, among them Hooded Merganser, Bufflehead and Ruddy Duck.
540
Greater Raleigh Group
2
70 40
Ebenezer Church Rd.
3
Harrison Ave.
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 8801 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27617 Wake County 919-571-4170 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: William B. Umstead State Park is a 5,579-acre natural area nestled between the growing cities of Raleigh, Cary, and Durham. With 20 miles of hiking trails, three small lakes and several miles of creeks, it offers birders a variety of different habitats to explore. Visit the shoreline of Big Lake for a view of the Great Blue Heron or the Belted Kingfisher. Walk along the pine/hardwood successional forests to survey excellent habitat for a variety of woodpeckers. Near the visitor center you are likely to see and hear the Carolina Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch and Eastern Bluebird. During win-
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Species of Interest: Scarlet Tanager, Great Horned Owl, Belted Kingfisher, woodpeckers Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, small wetland communities, floodplain forest, lake Access & Parking: The visitor center and camping facilities are located in the Crabtree Creek section of the park. The park is open from 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April, May and September; 8am to 9pm, June – August. The visitor center is open 9am to 5pm, November – February, 9am to 6pm, March – October. Directions: To the Crabtree Creek section: from Raleigh, head west on US 70 (Glenwood Avenue) toward Durham. Just past Ebenezer Church Road, watch for the park entrance on the left. The visitor center is 1 mile on the right. To the Reedy Creek section: from Raleigh, travel west on I-40 to the Harrison Avenue exit. Travel north on Harrison Avenue to the park entrance and parking area. Coordinates: N 35° 52’ 49” W 78°45’ 28” (Crabtree Section) DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
3
3 Lake Crabtree
Aviation Pkwy.
40
Reedy Creek Rd.
Edwards Mill Rd.
4
5 Wade Ave.
Site Information: Owner: Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space Department 1400 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville, NC 27560 Wake County 919-460-3390 www.wakegov.com/locations/lakecrabtree. htm
About the Site: Lake Crabtree County Park is a versatile 735-acre recreation site that features fishing, mountain biking, sailing, rowing and paddling options. Outstanding birding opportunities
can be found year-round. Lake Crabtree is a 520-acre flood control lake that dominates the park and provides excellent chances for viewing waterfowl and other wading birds, especially during the migration periods and winter. The park has over 6 miles of walking trails, including the 5.2-mile Lake Trail loop that passes through a wide variety of habitats. The areas around Crabtree and Black Creeks are especially productive. Bald Eagle is possible almost any month of the year, with an active nest on site, and Osprey are occasionally seen during migration and summer. Exposed mudflats can be productive for shorebirds during migration and the lake holds many types of waterfowl, loons and wading birds during winter. Spring and fall bring opportunities to view migrating songbirds. Summer yields abundant nesting songbirds, including Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Red-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos, Wood Thrush, Northern Parula, Ovenbird, Hooded and Yellow-throated Warblers, Summer and Scarlet Tanagers, and Indigo Bunting. Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Eastern Kingbird, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, wintering waterfowl Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, small wetland communities, lake Special Concern: The area around the nesting Bald Eagles is closed to the public if eagles are present. Rental canoes and rowboats can provide access to waterbirds. Access & Parking: The site is open daily 8am to sunset. The visitor center is open 9am to 1pm, Monday - Friday. Directions: From I-40, take Exit 285 (Aviation Parkway) and proceed south for 0.5 miles. The entrance to Lake Crabtree County Park is on the left.
© Jeff Lemons
Coordinates: N 35° 50’ 30” W 78° 47’ 43” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
Scarlet Tanager
61
Greater Raleigh Group
Lake Crabtree County Park
4 Schenck Forest 3 Lake Crabtree
Aviation Pkwy.
40
Reedy Creek Rd.
4
Edwards Mill Rd.
5 Wade Ave.
Greater Raleigh Group
Site Information: Owner: NC State University, College of Natural Resources Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NC Wake County 919-515-7576 http://natural-resources.ncsu.edu/for/ dept/schenckm.html
bird can be seen along the Loblolly Trail that traverses the western boundary. A variety of migrating songbirds can be viewed in the same areas during spring and fall. In winter, Hermit Thrush and Winter Wren are common in the brushy areas along the creek drains in the forest. The north and east sides of Schenck Forest are bordered by pasture, where American Kestrel and Eastern Meadowlark are common. A small lake with flooded willows borders the northwest boundary of the forest and often attracts shorebirds, wading birds and wintering waterfowl. Species of Interest: Indigo Bunting, Redheaded Woodpecker, Summer Tanager, Eastern Meadowlark, Northern Parula Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, floodplain forest
About the Site: Schenck Forest is a 245-acre forest managed for timber production and wildlife habitat. A visit provides opportunities to view a variety of stand types and ages. Well-maintained roads and trails provide easy access to all portions of the property. Yellow-breasted Chat, Indigo Bunting and Blue Grosbeak nest in the recent timber harvests adjacent to the picnic shelter near the forest’s main entrance. Breeding American Woodcock also can be viewed displaying near the picnic shelter in late winter and early spring. During the breeding season, Northern Parula, Summer Tanager and Oven-
Special Feature: University research sites are present on the property, and birders should not tamper with signage or plot markers. Access & Parking: Parking is allowed along the gravel road at the entrance to the property. The site is open daily during daylight hours. Dogs, ATVs, and bicycles are not permitted on the property. Directions: From the Beltline (I-440) or Wade Avenue, take Wade Avenue west to Blue Ridge Road. Turn right (north) on Blue Ridge Road. Drive 0.5 miles and turn left (west) on Reedy Creek Road. Continue along Reedy Creek Road and watch for the left-hand entrance to Schenck Forest 0.5 miles beyond the intersection of Edwards Mill Road. Or exit Wade Avenue onto the Edwards Mill Road exit north to Reedy Creek Road. Turn left (west) on Reedy Creek Road and turn left at the entrance to Schenck Forest in 0.5 miles. Coordinates: N 35° 48’ 58” W 78° 43’ 13” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
© Chris Moorman
Northern Parula
62
5 Prairie Ridge Ecostation for Wildlife & Learning Lake Crabtree
Aviation Pkwy.
40
Species of Interest: Eastern Kingbird, Loggerhead Shrike, Summer Tanager, Grasshopper Sparrow, Blue Grosbeak, Baltimore Oriole
Reedy Creek Rd.
4
Edwards Mill Rd.
5 Wade Ave.
Site Information: Owner: NC State Museum of Natural Sciences 4301 Reedy Creek Road, Raleigh, NC 27607 Wake County 919-733-7450 www.naturalsciences.org/prairieridge
About the Site: Prairie Ridge is the Museum of Natural Science’s outdoor classroom. Check the information kiosk at the parking area for a map of the site, which consists of a 10-acre restored piedmont prairie, along with a permanent pond and vernal pools that are an additional attraction for wildlife. There is also an arboretum of lowland forest trees and shrubs including some rare and unusual species. Two trails loop around this site. The 0.3-mile mowed Prairie Trail covers the higher ridge through the prairie where American Goldfinch, Indigo Bunting and sparrows are abundant. Stop at the bird blind and check the pond for ducks and wading birds. From this point either complete the circle on the prairie loop or continue downhill on the 0.5-mile Forest Trail that leads past several vernal pools through an early successional field. Continuing on, the trail enters a wooded area for a different mix of bird species, such as woodpeckers and vireos. Take the spur trail to the outdoor classroom deck and watch the bird feeders for any notable visitors. In the summer, Purple Martin may be active at the nest boxes. Return to the Forest Trail and complete the loop back to the parking lot. The trail from the outdoor classroom parking lot to the amphitheater is handicapped accessible.
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, small wetland communities Special Feature: Prairie Ridge offers nature based educational programs on birds and other wildlife. They are a Nest Quest Partner Site and offer training for this citizen science program that monitors nesting birds. Registration is required for all programs. The outdoor classroom and the wildlife garden pavilion are sustainable, green design buildings. Access & Parking: The site is open 9am to 4:30pm, Monday – Friday; noon to 4:30pm, Saturday and Sunday. It is closed on State holidays. Directions: From I-40, take Exit 289 to Wade Avenue (Raleigh-Chapel Hill Expressway). Stay right and immediately take the Edwards Mill Road/RBC Center Exit. At the end of the ramp, go north on Edwards Mill Road. From I-440 (Beltline) take Exit 4 to Wade Avenue (Raleigh-Chapel Hill Expressway) heading west to I-40. Take the Edwards Mill Road/RBC Center Exit. At the end of the ramp, go north on Edwards Mill Road. Once on Edwards Mill Road heading north, go to the next traffic light. Turn east on Reedy Creek Road for 0.1 mile. Turn south at the orange Prairie Ridge sign into the driveway to Prairie Ridge and the National Guard Post. Immediately turn headlights off and signal for a right turn as you approach the Military Checkpoint. This lets the National Guard security staff know you are going to Prairie Ridge. If the guards signal you to stop, obey their directions. Turn right just before the checkpoint on a gravel drive. Go up the drive and turn left into the Prairie Ridge parking lot. Coordinates: N 35° 48’ 42” W 78° 42’ 48” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
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Greater Raleigh Group
3
6 Anderson Point Park 64 Rogers Ln.
440
Knightdale
6
Site Information: Owner: Raleigh Parks and Recreation Dept. 10 Anderson Point Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610 Wake County 919-857-4366 http://parks.raleighnc.gov
Greater Raleigh Group
About the Site: Anderson Point Park sits at the confluence of the Neuse River and Crabtree Creek. Originally a horse farm, the park is maintained as a wildlife meadow along with mowed playing fields and a playground. The meadow’s grasses and flowers provide abundant seed sources
for birds and other wildlife and are mowed on a rotating schedule. From the parking lot, take the trail that leads toward the house and playground. Check the meadows of this perimeter trail for Eastern Bluebird, American Goldfinch and various sparrows. At the back of the park, by the house, take the spur trail that leads through a high quality bottomland forest to the confluence of the river and creek. A circular bench provides a nice spot to sit, relax and enjoy the woods and birds. Return to the perimeter trail and continue up the hill through the tall grasses. The spiral path leads to a cluster of benches for a nice overview of the park. Watch for raptors and woodpeckers flying overhead. As you walk the trail, check for activity at the bluebird, kestrel, owl and Purple Martin nest boxes, as well as the bat roost box. Species of Interest: Loggerhead Shrike, Prothonotary Warbler, American Redstart, Hooded Warbler, Blue Grosbeak, raptors Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, floodplain forest, small wetland communities Access & Parking: The site is open daily during daylight hours. Parking is available before the bridge or across the bridge in the park. Directions: From the I-440 Beltline east of Raleigh, take Business US 64 East (New Bern Avenue). Travel 2 miles and turn right on Roger’s Lane. At the stop sign, turn right and in 1 mile turn left on Neuse View Drive. Go 0.2 miles to the stop sign at Anderson Point Drive and turn right. The parking lot is on the left. Go across the bridge for additional parking. Coordinates: N 35° 46’ 29” W 78° 32’ 32” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
© Jeff Lewis
Indigo Bunting
64
7 Clemmons Educational State Forest
70
7 Shotwell Rd.
40
Site Information: Owner: NC Division of Forest Resources 2411 Old US 70 West, Clayton, NC 27520 Johnston County 919-553-5651 www.ncesf.org/CESF/home.htm
About the Site: Clemmons Educational State Forest opened in 1977 as the first of North Carolina’s Educational State Forests. This 850-acre site in Johnston County provides habitat for dozens of bird species year-round, and is largely compromised of pine and mixed pine hardwood woodlands interspersed with small streams and rock formations.
Species of Interest: Great Crested Flycatcher, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Indigo Bunting
Greater Raleigh Group
Garner Rd/ Old US 70
An enjoyable hiking and birding experience can be had from mid-March until mid-November. Approximately 4.5 miles of self-guided trails and exhibits focus on geology, tree identification and forest management. Acadian and Great Crested Flycatchers, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Red-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos, Hooded, Pine and Yellow-throated Warblers, Ovenbird, and Summer Tanager can be expected in summer. Brown Creeper, Winter Wren, woodpeckers and mixed-species flocks of songbirds can be seen in winter, and spring and fall are productive for migrating songbirds.
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, mesic forest, floodplain forest, small wetland communities Access & Parking: The site is open 9am to 5pm, Tuesday – Friday; 11am to 8pm, Saturday – Sunday; closed on Monday. The forest is open to the public from mid-March until mid-November only. Call for exact dates. Directions: From US 70 in Clayton, turn north on Shotwell Road and follow it the intersection of Old US 70. Turn left on Old US 70 and the entrance to Clemmons Educational State Forest is about 2.5 miles down on the right. Coordinates: N 35° 40’ 46” W 78° 29’ 14” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
© ew
L ff
Je is
Brown-headed Nuthatch
65
8 Lake Benson Park 70
401
Garner
70
Vandora Springs Rd.
Timber Dr.
Buffaloe Rd.
8 50 40
Site Information: Owner: Town of Garner 921 Buffaloe Road, Garner, NC 27529 Wake County 919-772-4688
Greater Raleigh Group
About the Site: The Lake Benson Park boathouse is a good place to begin birding in this park. Following the directions, you will pass the boathouse before reaching the park’s main entrance. Pay special attention to the lake’s western point as you scan for Bald Eagle. Eagles have successfully nested in trees on the opposite shore of the lake. The cove across the road has abundant aquatic vegetation. Check there for Hooded Merganser, wintering waterfowl and wading birds. Belted Kingfisher are often seen flying across the cove. Swallows nest under
the bridge in the summer. Continue from the boathouse to the park’s main entrance. When entering the park, watch for Loggerhead Shrike in the trees lining the road. Continue to the parking lot near the large picnic shelter. From this point, go to the lake access to scan. Then pick up the 1.3-mile paved loop and the secondary dirt trail that loops through the eastern woodlands, where songbirds and woodpeckers might be seen. Following the complete trail will take you across mowed fields, as well as through woods and some areas of thick undergrowth.
Species of Interest: Hooded Merganser, Bald Eagle, Loggerhead Shrike, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Summer Tanager, wintering waterfowl Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, early successional, lake Special Feature: Fishing boats with electric motors are seasonally available for rent at the boathouse. No other boats are permitted on the lake. When checking the cove opposite the boathouse, be cautious of traffic along Buffaloe Road. Access & Parking: The site is open daily during daylight hours, although the main gate opens at 8:30am. Limited parking is available outside the entrance gate for earlier access. Two large parking lots are located in the park. The boathouse parking lot is open seasonally when staff is present. Directions: From the I-440 Beltline south of Raleigh, exit on Highway 70 East/401 South. Continue on Highway 70 East for 2.6 miles to Timber Drive. Turn right on Timber and in 1.9 miles turn right onto Vandora Springs Road. In 0.6 miles turn left on Buffaloe Road and continue for 1.3 miles to the Lake Benson Park boathouse or 1.6 miles to the park entrance.
© Chuck Carmack
Loggerhead Shrike
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Coordinates: N 39° 40’17” W 78° 37’43” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
9 Lake Johnson Park 440 1
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Avent Ferry Rd.
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Site Information: Owner: City of Raleigh Parks and Recreation Department 4601 Avent Ferry Road, Raleigh, NC 27606 Wake County 919-233-2121 http://parks.raleighnc.gov
About the Site: Tucked away in the suburbs of southwest Raleigh, Lake Johnson Park is comprised of a 150-acre lake surrounded by more than 300 acres of forest. Approximately 3.5 miles of paved greenway trails wind around the east side of the lake, and a 1.9-mile unpaved trail follows the lakeshore around the west side. Birding tends to be better on the unpaved side where there are fewer people and a higher diversity of habitats. Wood Thrush breed along the drains that enter the lake. Great Crested Flycatcher and Summer Tanager sing from the ridgetops. Prothonotary Warbler and other breeding songbirds may be seen or heard along the boardwalk on the northwest side of the lake. Eastern Kingbird and Orchard Oriole generally nest in the treetops near the boathouse. Breeding Barn Swallow can be easily viewed from the wooden bridge that crosses over the center of the lake. Migrating songbirds can be abundant in spring, and Lesser Scaup, Ruddy Duck, Mallard, American Coot and other waterfowl are present in winter. Because Lake Johnson Park contains relatively large expanses of both wetland and upland habitats, it offers year round opportunities to see a diversity of birds in an urban setting.
© Jeff Lemons
Tufted Titmouse
Species of Interest: Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Prothonotary Warbler, Summer Tanager, wintering waterfowl Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, lake Access & Parking: Parking areas are available on either side of the lake. The site is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From I-40, take Exit 295 (Gorman Street) and head south for a short distance to the intersection of Tryon Road. Turn right (west) on Tryon Road and travel for approximately 1 mile. Turn right on Avent Ferry Road and in less than mile, cross a bridge over the lake. The main parking area for Lake Johnson Park is on the right, immediately after crossing the bridge (additional parking is just before the bridge, on the right). Coordinates: N 35° 45’ 44” W 78° 42’ 56” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
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Greater Raleigh Group
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10 Historic Yates Mill County Park 10
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Lake Wheeler Road
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Garner
Greater Raleigh Group
Site Information: Owner: Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space Department, and NC State University 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh, NC 27603 Wake County 919-856-6675 www.wakegov.com/yatesmill
About the Site: Historic Yates Mill County Park is a 174-acre site that features the only gristmill (circa 1756) still standing in Wake County. The park offers birding opportunities year-round along short trails and boardwalks, and is especially productive during winter for waterfowl and songbirds.
Possible summer-breeding songbirds include Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Red-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos, Wood Thrush, Yellow-throated Warbler, Northern Parula, Prothonotary and Hooded Warblers, Summer and Scarlet Tanagers and Indigo Bunting. There are active Wood Duck boxes along the pond and boardwalks, and a mill observation deck provides close viewing access to waterfowl and wading birds, especially during migration periods and winter. Other trails, including the Creekside Trail, provide good birding chances for songbirds year-round, but are best during spring migration and winter. The Upper Beaver Pond area offers opportunities to see wintering waterfowl. Over 160 bird species have been documented in the park on a list that grows each year. Species of Interest: Red-headed Woodpecker, Summer Tanager, Prothonotary Warbler, wintering waterfowl Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, small wetland communities, millpond Special Feature: NC State University conducts research on-site. Birders should take care to not disturb research activities. Access & Parking: The site is open daily, 8am to sunset. The A.E. Finley Center for Education and Research is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Directions: From I-40, take Exit 297 (Lake Wheeler Road) and proceed south, away from downtown Raleigh. Stay on Lake Wheeler Road for 3 miles. Just past the NC State University research farms, turn right into the park entrance. Look for millstones and lampposts with banners at the entrance.
© Jeff Lewis
Green Heron
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Coordinates: N 35° 43’ 13” W 78° 41’ 14” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
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© Frank Ripp
Carolina Chickadee
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Lake Wheeler Road
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Garner
Site Information: Owner: City of Raleigh Parks and Recreation Department 6404 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh, NC 27603 Wake County 919-662-5704 http://parks.raleighnc.gov
About the Site: Lake Wheeler is an 866-acre park dominated by a 635-acre lake. There are birding opportunities year-round along short trails and pond edges, but winter is often exceptional for waterfowl watching on the water (especially during very cold weather). Typical winter duck species include Bufflehead, Wood Duck, Ruddy Duck, Canvasback and American Wigeon. Gulls, shorebirds and wading birds can be found from fall into early summer. Osprey can be occasionally spotted during migration and summer. Summer songbirds include Eastern Wood-Pewee, Red-eyed and Yellow-throated
Vireos, Yellow-throated Warbler, Indigo Bunting, and a variety of woodpeckers. Orchard Oriole and Eastern Kingbird can be found during spring migration in trees along parking lot and waterfront edges. Woodlands throughout the park can be productive during spring and fall for migrating songbirds. It is possible to glimpse Bald Eagle foraging or flying over the lake almost any month of the year. Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Great Crested Flycatcher, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Summer Tanager, wintering waterfowl Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, mesic forest, lake Special Concerns: Motorized boats can be a noise concern early in the morning, and on weekends during warmer weather. Access & Parking: The site is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From I-40, take Exit 297 (Lake Wheeler Road) and proceed south, away from downtown Raleigh. Stay on Lake Wheeler Road for 4.5 miles. Turn right into the park entrance and follow the road to the park waterfront. Coordinates: N 35° 41’ 46” W 78° 41’ 34” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
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Greater Raleigh Group
Lake Wheeler
12 Swift Creek Bluffs Tryon Rd.
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1 Kildaire Farm Rd.
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Holly Springs Rd.
Site Information: Owner: Triangle Land Conservancy Holly Springs Road, Cary, NC Wake County 919-833-3662 www.tlc-nc.org
© Frank Ripp
Greater Raleigh Group
Ruby-crowned Kinglet
About the Site: Swift Creek Bluffs features steep north-facing slopes rising 100 feet above the bank of Swift Creek. On this 23-acre site, American beech trees form a canopy over a carpet of woodland wildflowers and ferns. Known for its wildflowers, Swift Creek Bluffs is also a good place to bird, especially during migration and the early breeding season. Follow the trail along the creek and climb the steps higher up the bluffs to catch sightings of Summer Tanager, Louisiana Waterthrush, Wood Thrush, Hooded Warbler, and Black-and-white Warbler. Listen for the rattle of a Belted Kingfisher along the creek or a soaring Red-shouldered Hawk calling overhead. Northern Parula, Red-eyed Vireo, and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher are common during the breeding season, along with yearround residents such as Carolina Chickadee and Eastern Towhee. Barred Owl and Pileated Woodpecker also nest at the Bluffs. Migration brings the possibility of seeing Swainson’s Thrush, and Worm-eating and Black-throated Green Warblers. A crisp winter walk along the trail might allow the chance to see visiting flocks of White-throated Sparrow and kinglets, along with Winter Wren and Brown Creeper.
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Species of Interest: Great Crested Flycatcher, Brown Creeper, Winter Wren, Hooded Warbler, American Redstart, Summer Tanager Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwood/pine, small wetland communities, creek Access & Parking: The preserve is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From points north, take I-440 (Outer Beltline) to Jones Franklin Road (Exit 1C). Go south (left) on Jones Franklin Road for approximately 2 miles to Holly Springs Road. Turn left on Walnut Street and bear right on Holly Springs Road at the next intersection. Proceed for 2.3 miles to the Swift Creek bridge. Swift Creek Bluffs is located just beyond Swift Creek bridge, on the right side adjacent to a Town of Cary lift station. Park in the gravel lot. Coordinates: N 35° 43’ 03” W 78° 45’ 11” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40
13 Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve 64
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1 Kildaire Farm Rd.
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Holly Springs Rd.
Trail. During winter, 7 species of woodpeckers are possible, and the feeders in the courtyard consistently offer close-ups at resident birds such as Brown-headed Nuthatch. Occasionally, wading birds are found along the creek during winter and shorebirds are sometimes present during migration periods. Birding programs are regularly featured through the Stevens Nature Center’s scheduled public programming. Species of Interest: Great Crested Flycatcher, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, migrating songbirds
Site Information: Owner: Town of Cary 2616 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary, NC 27518 Wake County 919-387-5980 www.townofcary.org
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, small wetland communities, creek
About the Site:
Greater Raleigh Group
Tryon Rd.
Special Feature: A system of northfacing bluffs along Swift Creek supports a population of Eastern hemlocks thriving 200 miles from their typical habitat in the Appalachian Mountains.
More than 130 bird species, including 28 warblers, have been documented at this 150-acre property in southern Cary. It is particularly well known for excellent birding opportunities during spring migration. There are two loop trails totaling over 2 miles in length, and a system of overlooks along the bluffs and boardwalks that provide vantage points along Swift Creek. The overlooks offer exceptional tree-top looks at migrants during spring and fall. The upland trail moves through mature oak-hickory forest that supports Ovenbird, Summer and Scarlet Tanagers, and Red-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos during summer. The floodplain loop trail provides excellent birding year-round. In summer, expect Great Crested and Acadian Flycatchers, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Wood Thrush, Northern Parula and Louisiana Waterthrush along the Swift Creek Loop
Access & Parking: The site is open daily 9am to sunset. The visitor center is open May – September, 10am to 7pm, Monday – Saturday; 1pm to 7pm, Sunday; October – April, 10am to 5pm, Monday – Saturday; 1pm to 5pm, Sunday. Directions: From US 1 South, take the Tryon Road/US 64 exit and travel east on Tryon Road to the intersection of Kildaire Farm Road. Turn right (south) on Kildaire Farm Road and travel 1 mile. The entrance to the preserve is on the right, just as the road starts up a hill. Coordinates: N 35° 44’ 00” W 78° 47’ 00” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 40 © Frank Ripp
Great Crested Flycatcher
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14 Harris Lake County Park 1
Holly Springs New HillHolleman Rd.
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Greater Raleigh Group
Site Information: Owner: Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space Department 2112 County Park Drive, New Hill, NC 27562 Wake County 919-387-4342 www.wakegov.com/locations/harrislake.htm
About the Site: This 680-acre park in southwestern Wake County forms a peninsula on Harris Lake, where more than 90 bird species have been
documented in recent years. The Peninsula Trail is a series of four loops varying from 0.25 to 5 miles in length. It traverses a variety of habitats and along the lake shoreline. This trail is good for forest and edge-related songbirds, as well as wintering waterfowl. Around the edge of the parking lot, beside an open play area, are large pines that are a great spot for Eastern Kingbird and Orchard Oriole during spring and summer. This area is also productive during winter. A nearby fishing pier provides easy access to Harris Lake to scan for Osprey, wading birds, winter gulls and waterfowl. A longleaf pine management area at the back section of the longest loop of the Peninsula Trail provides chances to see Indigo Bunting, Blue Grosbeak, Field Sparrow, Yellowbreasted Chat, Prairie Warbler and other early successional songbirds. Most of the woodland trails are productive for woodpeckers, especially during spring and winter. Species of Interest: Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Summer Tanager, Indigo Bunting, wintering waterfowl Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, dry coniferous woodlands, early successional, lake Special Concern: Hunting is allowed on and around parts of Harris Lake during certain times of the year but not on park property. Stay on designated trails at all times. There are also biking-only trails. Year-round environmental education programs for the public and for school groups are offered. Access & Parking: The site is open daily 8am to sunset. Directions: From Raleigh, take US 1 South, take Exit 89 (New Hill-Holleman Exit). Turn left on New Hill-Holleman Road and travel just under 3 miles. The park entrance is on the right.
© Jeff Lemons
Chipping Sparrow
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Coordinates: N 35° 37’ 17” W 78° 55’ 33” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
© Jeff Lewi
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Red-tailed Hawk
Greater Raleigh Group
While You’re In the Area NC Museum of Art 2110 Blue Ridge Road Raleigh, NC 27607-6494 919-839-6262 www.ncartmuseum.org NC Museum of History 5 East Edenton Street Raleigh, North Carolina 27601-1029 919-807-7900 www.ncmuseumofhistory.org (continues)
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© Jeff Lemons
House wren
Greater Raleigh Group
NC Museum of Natural Sciences 11 W. Jones Street Raleigh, NC 27601-1029 919-733-7450 or 877-462-8724 www.naturalsciences.org NC Wildlife Resources Commission Centennial Campus Wildlife Education Center 1751 Varsity Drive Raleigh, NC 27606 919-707-0209 www.ncwildlife.org
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Welcome to the
Jordan Lake Group supply for the surrounding cities, flood and water-quality control, and important habitat for many types of birds. The lake hosts a variety of waterfowl each winter and it is a popular destination for viewing Bald Eagle. In the spring and fall, large numbers of migrating songbirds often are concentrated in the public forests adjacent to the lake.
Jordan Lake Group
F
ollowing a catastrophic hurricane in 1945, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began the New Hope Lake project to dam the Haw River. The resultant reservoir was renamed B. Everett Jordan Dam and Lake in honor of a former senator. Jordan Lake’s 46,768 acres are not only a popular recreational destination, but they also provide a water
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Jordan Lake Group 1
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – Ebenezer Church
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Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – New Hope Overlook
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Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – Seaforth
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Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – Parkers Creek
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Raleigh 95
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Jordan Lake Educational State Forest
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Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – Vista Point
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White Pines Nature Preserve
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4 64 North Pea Ridge Rd.
3 Seaforth Rd.
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Beaver Creek Rd.
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Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks Beaver Creek Road, off US 64, west of Apex, NC Chatham County 919-362-0586 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: The Ebenezer Church Trail is an easy 1-mile loop that passes the site of historic Ebenezer Church, for which the area is named (an interpretive display marks the location). Parts of the path follow an abandoned roadbed and go around a large farm pond, which is an excel-
lent place to observe waterfowl and wading birds. Songbirds are abundant around the old church site and adjacent overgrown fields. The trailhead is at the southeast corner of the beach parking lot. The Old Oak Trail is an easy 1mile loop trail that begins at the parking lot in Ebenezer Picnic Area A. This trail can be cut to 0.5 miles by taking the short cut loop, making this a great trail for younger children. Hikers will see large hollow oaks, two small ponds, fencerows and clues of the farms that used to cover this area. Both trails are productive for Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Northern Parula, Ovenbird, Summer Tanager, and the occasional Ruby-throated Hummingbird. Species of Interest: Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Northern Parula, Ovenbird, Summer Tanager, Indigo Bunting Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, mesic forest, lake, small wetland communities Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. The park visitor center is open 9am to 5pm, daily. From April – September, the weekend fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. This fee is also charged on weekdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Directions: From Apex (or points east) take US 64 west toward Jordan Lake. At the Wilsonville stoplight, turn left on Beaver Creek Road. Ebenezer Church State Recreation Area is on the right, approximately 2.1 miles ahead.
© NC State Parks
Coordinates: N 35° 42’ 28” W 79° 01’ 35” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
Jordan Lake
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Jordan Lake Group
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Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – Ebenezer Church
2 Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – New Hope Overlook 1
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Beaver Creek Rd. Pea Ridge Rd.
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Jordan Lake Group
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks Pea Ridge Road, west of Apex, NC Chatham County 919-362-0586 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: New Hope Trail is the newest and most strenuous hiking trail at Jordan Lake. The trail begins near the bathrooms at the boat ramp. The 5.4-mile red loop and the 2.7-mile blue loop create a route studded with several challenging hills. Hikers will enjoy sweeping views of the lake, mature hardwood forests, groves of mountain laurel, lush creek crossings and a variety of wildflowers and ferns. Summer and Scarlet Tanagers and Yellow-billed Cuckoo can be spotted along the trail. There are several views of the main body of Jordan Lake which offer excellent opportunities to see gulls, terns, grebes and other diving ducks during winter. Wild Turkey are also frequently seen foraging through the forest. The beaver pond by the entrance station is an excellent spot to find woodpeckers, songbirds and waterfowl. The road connecting the ticket booth and the boat ramp is a good place to find breeding songbirds in the spring and summer.
© John Ennis
Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Species of Interest: Wild Turkey, Northern Parula, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Indigo Bunting, wintering waterfowl Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, mesic forest, lake, small wetland communities Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. The park visitor center is open 9am to 5pm, daily. From April – September, the weekend fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. This fee is also charged on weekdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Directions: From Apex (or points east) take US 64 west toward Jordan Lake. At the Wilsonville stoplight, turn left on Beaver Creek Road. After crossing the lake, turn right on Pea Ridge Road. New Hope Overlook will be on the right, approximately 2.2 miles ahead. Coordinates: N 35° 40’ 56” W 79° 02’ 52” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
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Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – Seaforth for food or Bald Eagle soaring overhead. The cleared field is an excellent area for Eastern Bluebird, Song Sparrow, Blue Grosbeak and Indigo Bunting. A long boardwalk traverses a wetland teaming with buttonbush, black needle rush and other water loving vegetation.
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Beaver Creek Rd.
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Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Wood Thrush, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, wading birds
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks US 64, west of Apex, NC Chatham County 919-362-0586 www.ncparks.gov
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, mesic forest, small wetland communities, lake
About the Site: Along the Pond Trail at Seaforth State Recreation Area hikers will enjoy glimpses of the lake while walking through loblolly pine forests, hardwood forests, old fields and past three ponds. The path, nearly a loop, is an easy 1.5mile route that begins at the display case on the western side of the beach parking lot, and ends near Picnic Shelter 9. The ponds offer good chances to view wading birds hunting
Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. The park visitor center is open 9am to 5pm, daily. From April – September, the weekend fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. This fee is also charged on weekdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Directions: From Apex (or points east) take US 64 west toward Jordan Lake. After crossing the lake, turn left at the signs for the Seaforth State Recreation Area. Coordinates: N 35° 43’ 34” W 79° 02’ 06” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
© Jeff Lewis
Song Sparrow
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Jordan Lake Group
North Pea Ridge Rd.
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© Jeff Lewis
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – Parkers Creek Lake
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Jordan
Jordan Lake Group
Big Woods Rd.
4 64
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Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks US 64, west of Apex, NC Chatham County 919-362-0586 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: The Childrens Trail in Parkers Creek begins and ends in the parking lot near Picnic Shelter 3. This destination is located along the first road to the right, once you are inside the park. The short, 0.5-mile trail wanders through stands of loblolly pine and mixed hardwoods/ pine forests. The trail crosses several abandoned roadbeds and winds around an old farm pond. Songbirds are plentiful along this trail, and waterfowl and wading birds can often be seen in the farm pond. Another good spot is located at the end of the first road on the left, once you enter Parkers Creek Recreation Area. A small path runs along the shore of the impoundment. The water of the impoundment
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teems with lily pads during summer and an osprey nesting platform is located at the north end of the pool. Great Crested Flycatcher and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher can be heard and seen along the beach parking lot. The impoundment is great for flatwater canoeing and kayaking. Species of Interest: Great Crested Flycatcher, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, wintering waterfowl, wading birds Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, mesic forest, small wetland communities, lake Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. The park visitor center is open 9am to 5pm, daily. From April – September, the weekend fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. This fee is also charged on weekdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Directions: From Apex (or points east) take US 64 west toward Jordan Lake. After crossing the lake, turn right at the signs for the Parkers Creek State Recreation Area. Coordinates: N 35° 44’ 39” W 79° 02’ 31” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
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Jordan
Big Woods Rd.
4 64
Site Information: Owner: NC Division of Forest Resources 2832 Big Woods Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 Chatham County 919-542-1154 www.ncesf.org
About the Site: Jordan Lake Educational State Forest is one of the newest members to the Educational State Forest system. This 420-acre site is adjacent to Jordan Lake. Over 156 bird species have been documented at the forest or nearby lake. The site showcases mixed hardwoods/pine forest, wetlands and managed habitats for good birding year-round. Bird diversity in the woodlands, early successional and managed areas is complemented by excellent birding along the lake shoreline. Over 2 miles of trails traverse the property, include a forest demonstration loop. There is also a small pond on site. Summer neotropical migrants typically found include Osprey, Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Eastern Kingbird, Red-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos, Wood Thrush, Ovenbird, Yellow-throated, Prothonotary, and Hooded Warblers. The
site is productive for migrating songbirds during spring and fall, and excellent opportunities exist for migrating and wintering waterfowl, gulls and terns along the shoreline. Bald Eagle can be seen any month of the year, but spring and summer are the best seasons. When the lake level is down during late summer or early fall, shorebird activity can be quite amazing on mudflats. Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Red-headed Woodpecker, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, wintering waterfowl Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, lake Access & Parking: The state forest is open from mid-March through Mid-November, 9am to 5pm, Monday – Friday; on weekends during Daylight Standard Time, 11am to 8pm; on weekends during Eastern Standard Time, 11am to 5pm. Park in one of the designated lots and follow the marked trails or the forest road system. Maps are available at the forest office. Directions: From Apex (or points east) take US 64 west across Jordan Lake. Turn right on Big Woods Road and travel 3 miles to the forest entrance on the right. Coordinates: N 35° 46’ 26” W 79° 02’ 30” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
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Jordan Lake Educational State Forest
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© Jeff Lemons
Red Knots
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Jordan Lake State Recreation Area – Vista Point The Blue Trail is a loop slightly over 1 mile in length that begins near the entrance gate. Hikers will pass by an old abandoned tobacco barn. Songbirds often frequent this area foraging and resting in the underbrush.
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Jordan Lake Group
North Pea Ridge Rd.
3 Seaforth Rd.
1
Beaver Creek Rd.
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Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks Pea Ridge Road, west of Apex, NC Chatham County 919-362-0586 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: The Red Trail at Vista Point access is an easy 3-mile hike that begins near the shower house. It is nearly a loop trail, but requires walking on the road for about 100 yards to end up back at the shower house. Rest on a bench along a quiet lake cove and continue through some beautiful mixed hardwoods/pine forests. Red-eyed Vireo, Brown-headed Nuthatch, and Summer and Scarlet Tanagers can often be seen along this trail. In winter, birders will enjoy an abundance of green from the numerous American holly trees, and in fall enjoy a field of sunflowers. The lake views offer excellent chances of spotting gulls, terns, waterfowl and Bald Eagle.
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Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Brownheaded Nuthatch, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, wintering waterfowl, shorebirds Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, mesic forest, small wetland communities, lake Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April and September; 8am to 9pm, May – August. The park visitor center is open 9am to 5pm, daily. From April – September, the weekend fee is $5 per car, $3 for senior citizens, and $10 per bus. This fee is also charged on weekdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Separate fees are charged for picnic shelter reservations and campsites. Directions: From Apex (or points east) take US 64 west toward Jordan Lake. After crossing the lake, turn left on Seaforth Road. Travel this road for 2 miles and turn left on Pea Ridge Road, which dead ends at the Vista Point access. Coordinates: N 35° 42’ 14” W 79° 02’ 54” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 39
7 White Pines Nature Preserve
River Fork Rd.
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River Fork Rd.
Site Information: Owner: Triangle Land Conservancy 549 South Rocky River Road, Pittsboro, NC 27312 Chatham County: 919-833-3662 www.tlc-nc.org
About the Site: Located at the confluence of the Deep and Rocky Rivers, White Pines Nature Preserve is home to several stands of white pine, one of the only populations in the eastern Piedmont. Fifty five bird species nest in this 275-acre preserve, among 200-year-old beeches, with steep, rocky terrain and bluffs surrounding the rivers. Listen for Wood Thrush, Ovenbird, and Scarlet Tanager as you walk down the White Pine Trail. At the fork in the trail, continue straight to the Overlook Trail toward the river bluffs, or turn left to follow the River Trail and short loop around the Schoolkids Trail, where you might see a Barred Owl or Prothonotary Warbler. During the summer expect to find Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Acadian Flycatcher, and Hooded Warbler. Belted Kingfisher and Great Blue Heron can be seen along the river. During winter Hermit Thrush, Winter Wren, kinglets, and Brown Creeper are often seen along the trails. Recently opened, the 1-mile Gilbert Yager Trail has been added to the trail system at White Pines. The trailhead is adjacent to the parking area.
© Jeff Lewis
Ovenbird
Species of Interest: Broad-winged Hawk, Acadian Flycatcher, Prothonotary Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwood/pine, floodplain forest, river Access & Parking: The preserve is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From the downtown Pittsboro circle, go south on US 15-501 for 8 miles. Turn left on River Fork Road (SR 1958), the first left after crossing the Rocky River bridge. On River Fork Road, turn right immediately and proceed for 1.7 miles. Turn right at the stop sign and continue 0.5 miles to the Triangle Land Conservancy Preserve sign. Turn left and drive 0.1 miles to the parking area on the right. Coordinates: N 35° 36’ 52” W 79° 09’ 25” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 61
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Jordan Lake Group
15
1
© Phil Rh yne
Jordan Lake Group
Bald Eagles
While You’re In the Area Growing Small Farms Chatham County Cooperative Extension Promoting awareness, understanding and practice of sustainable agriculture http://chatham.ces.ncsu.edu/growingsmallfarms/ HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trail: Potters’ Wheels & Organic Fields www.homegrownhandmade.com NC Railroad Museum 5121 Daisey Street New Hill, NC 27562 919-362-5416 www.nhvry.org Piedmont Biofuels Research Farm 4783 Moncure-Pittsboro Road Moncure, NC 27559 919-321-8260 http://biofuels.coop/coop-directions/
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Welcome to the
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miles of foot trails for birders to explore, and the 120-plus-foot cliffs over the Cape Fear River are spectacular. Birders can also explore the Dunn-Erwin Trail, connecting these two southern piedmont towns. Come see what Lee and Harnett counties have to offer.
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Lee-Harnett Group
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his charming rural area of North Carolina offers unhurried and scenic birding experiences. Structured education programs are available at both San-Lee Environmental Education and Recreation Park, and Raven Rock State Park. Raven Rock State Park is over 2,800 acres in size, with over 15
© Paul Hart, NC State Parks
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Garner Cary
Holly Springs 15 1
FuquayVarina 40
42
210
Angier Sanford
3 55
2
Broadway
50
78 421
Coats
87
27
Lillington
421
27
1
Erwin
Dunn 24 210 401
95
217
Linden 82
Godwin 301 690
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Lee-Harnett Group 1
Dunn-Erwin Trail
2
Raven Rock State Park
3
San-Lee Environmental Education and Recreation Park
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1 Dunn Erwin Trail
301
Erwin
Powell Ave.
1
Dunn
95
Site Information: Owner: Dunn Erwin Trail Authority Between Dunn and Erwin, NC Harnett County 910-892-4113 www.ncrail-trails.org
About the Site: The Dunn-Erwin Trail is a 5.3-mile corridor that occupies the former railroad line that connected the Erwin Mill to the Cotton Exchange Yard in Dunn. The trail emerges from the hearts of Dunn and Erwin, traversing a suburban and light industrial fringe area before arriving into farmland. The trail crosses the Black River headwaters and floodplain. Trail visitors pass farm fields scattered with
Lee-Harnett Group
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thick pine stands, perennial streams with low floodplain habitat, and dense hardwood stands. There are several ponds along the trail that can be checked for wading birds, waterfowl and migrating shorebirds when the water is low. The trail is home to many typical backyard songbirds. Other inhabitants include Chimney Swift, Eastern Bluebird, Wood Duck, Red-bellied, Downy, Pileated and Red-headed Woodpeckers, and a variety of migrating and breeding warblers. The compact trail surface of granite screenings and fine crushed gravel offers a great opportunity to combine birding with biking. Mile markers along the trail are useful in determining the distance traveled. Species of Interest: Northern Bobwhite, Eastern Screech-Owl, Eastern Meadowlark, Prothonotary Warbler, Kentucky Warbler Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, small wetland communities, river Access & Parking: The trail is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From the intersection of NC 421 and NC 301 in Dunn, travel west on NC 421 for 1.5 miles to Powell Avenue. Turn right and travel 0.4 miles to the first stop sign. Turn left and parking is available immediately on the right. Coordinates: N 35° 19’ 35” W 78° 37’ 50” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 62
© John
Ennis
American Crow
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2 Raven Rock State Park Raven Rock Rd.
2 401
421
Lillington
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 3009 Raven Rock Road, Lillington, NC 27546 Harnett County 910-893-4888 www.ncparks.gov
Lee-Harnett Group
About the Site: Raven Rock, the bluff for which this park is named, is exceptionally tall for the piedmont, with an elevation of over 100 feet above the Cape Fear River. Due to its height, this bluff
has been a landmark to river travelers since before the Civil War. The park’s unique bluffs are representative of its location in the fall zone, separating the piedmont region’s more resistant rocks from the sediments and softer rocks of the coastal plain. The habitats in the park include maturing, successional communities representative of the eastern piedmont, as well as a number of unusual natural communities derived from the fall zone interface. More than 180 bird species have been observed in the park, including Bald Eagle, Hooded, Prothonotary, and Black-and-white Warblers, Louisiana Waterthrush and Fox Sparrow. A number of trails in the park traverse a variety of terrains. Raven Rock Loop Trail travels through a hardwood forest on its 1-mile trip to the park’s centerpiece, Raven Rock. Wooden stairs down the face of the river bluff lead to the base of Raven Rock, where the river bank provides a place to examine the area beneath the overhang. A stone balcony along the way overlooks the river and the floodplain forest beyond. Other trails offer access to other sections of the park. For information on distance and difficulty, see the park map. Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Prothonotary Warbler, Swainson’s Warbler, American Redstart, Fox Sparrow Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, river Access & Parking: The park is open from 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April, May, and September; 8am to 9pm, June - August. Directions: From Lillington, follow US 421 north toward Sanford. Approximately 6.1 miles outside of town, look for the brown Raven Rock State Park highway sign. Turn right on Raven Rock Road and drive approximately 3 miles. The road dead-ends into the park. Coordinates: N 35° 27’ 37” W 78° 54’ 47” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 61
© Paul Hart, NC State Parks
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Raven Rock State Park
3 San-Lee Environmental Education and Recreation Park Pumping Station Rd.
3 Kelly Dr.
42
Nash St.
Broadway 78
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, small wetland communities, lake Access & Parking: The park is open from 6:30am to 7pm, April and September; 6:30 to 8pm, May – August, 6:30 to 6pm, October; 8am to 5pm, November – March.
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Site Information: Owner: Lee County Parks and Recreation 572 Pumping Station Road, Sanford, NC 27330 Lee County 919-776-6221 www.leecountync.gov/departments/ parks-and-recreation/sanleepark
Directions: From the intersection of US 421 and NC 42/78 in Sanford, travel 0.3 miles east on NC 42 and turn left on Nash Street. After 0.5 miles, turn right on Kelly Drive. Follow Kelly Drive 1.7 miles to the intersection of Pumping Station Road. The park entrance is approximately 0.5 miles on the right, at the bottom of the hill.
Lee-Harnett Group
Sanford
Species of Interest: Great Crested Flycatcher, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Indigo Bunting
Coordinates: N 35° 28’ 58” W 79° 07’ 35” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 61
About the Site: The 144-acre San-Lee Environmental Education and Recreation Park provides a nice site for recreation and education opportunities in Lee County. The park offers live wildlife and nature exhibits in a nature center building and a native wildflower garden. Four loops, each averaging around 1 mile, allow birders to access all parts of the park. A longer, 5-mile mountain bike trail is also available. Two ponds provide occasional stray waterbirds, but the birding focus for this park year-round is songbirds. Breeding songbirds include Acadian Flycatcher, Red-eyed and Yellow-throated Vireos, Hooded Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Ovenbird, Summer Tanager and Indigo Bunting. Along the trails, woodpeckers can be viewed year-round and migratory songbirds can be seen in the spring and fall. Open areas occasionally yield views of raptors, including Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks. The 0.81-mile Thoreau Lake Trail crosses several small creeks that feed the Upper Pond. This trail is excellent for a short birding walk anytime of the year.
© Chuck Carmack
Brown-headed Nuthatch
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© Frank Ripp
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Lee-Harnett Group
While You’re In the Area Averasboro Battlefield 3300 NC Highway 82 Dunn, North Carolina 28335 910-891-5019 www.averasboro.com General William C. Lee Airborne Museum 209 W. Divine Street Dunn, NC 28334 910-892-1947 www.generalleeairbornemuseum.org HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trail: Potters’ Wheels & Organic Fields www.homegrownhandmade.com
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Welcome to the
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Woodpecker and Bachman’s Sparrow. On the eastern edge of the Sandhills, the Lumber River creates interesting river bluffs and other habitats for riparian species. The beauty of the Sandhills can be subtle, and its wildlife can be secretive. With numerous rare plants and animals, the Sandhills holds many treasures for visitors willing to search.
Sandhills Group
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geological remnant of an ancient shallow sea, the Sandhills is one of the more unique ecological regions of North Carolina. Influenced by nutrient-poor, well drained soils and frequent fires, the Sandhills region has developed a distinctive flora, including the signature species of longleaf pine and wiregrass. These plants, in turn, provide habitat for rare birds such as Red-cockaded
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© Michael McCloy
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Carthage
27
87
Cameron 15 24 22
211
Taylortown 2
Southern Pines
210
Vass
Whispering Pines
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1 690
Pinehurst
Foxfire Village
Spring Lake
4
5
Pinebluff
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9
Aberdeen
401
Fort Bragg Military Installation
211
3
24
2
Fayetteville 1 6
Hoffman 10
401
7
1
59 95
Raeford 15 177
8 5
Lumber Bridge
Wagram 211
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Red Springs
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79
87 71
301
144
381
Parkton
Rennert
Saint Pauls
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East Laurinburg Laurinburg
710 15
0
72
501 130
5 Miles
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Cape Fear Botanical Garden
6
All American Trail
2
J. Bayard Clark Park
7
Calloway Forest
3
Cape Fear River Trail
8
Lumber River State Park – Chalk Banks and upper sections
4
Carvers Creek State Park
9
Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve
5
Raft Swamp Farms
10 Sandhills Game Land
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1
© Jeff Marcus
Birders at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden
401
Sherman Drive
Fayetteville
3 2
24 Ramsey St.
1 BUS
95
401 59
301
Site Information: Owner: Cape Fear Botanical Garden 536 North Eastern Boulevard, Fayetteville, NC 28301 Cumberland County 910-486-0221 www.capefearbg.org
About the Site: The Cape Fear Botanical Garden is a beautiful 80-acre park containing about 3 miles of wide, well-connected walking paths, with a series of viewing platforms overlooking the Cape Fear River and its bluffs. The upper area is landscaped with ornamental plants as a “heritage” area that buzzes with Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. It also features a small, man-made pond, which attracts Belted Kingfisher and wading birds, and where a pair of Mississippi Kites has been spotted hawking for insects. The lower paths run through mature hardwood forests
managed as a natural area. Check the oxbow, visible from the Oak Loop overlook, for waterfowl and wading birds. Visitors can expect a variety of waterfowl, breeding and migrating songbirds, raptors and woodpeckers. Species of Interest: Pileated Woodpecker, Great Crested Flycatcher, Wood Thrush, Prothonotary Warbler, Swainson’s Warbler, wading birds Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwood/ pine, floodplain forest, small wetland communities, river Access & Parking: The Botanical Garden is open 10am to 5pm, Monday–Saturday; Sundays 12pm to 5pm; closed on Sundays in the winter. There is a $5 entrance fee for non-members, $4 with military ID. Directions: The Cape Fear Botanical Garden is located in downtown Fayetteville, on North Eastern Boulevard (Business 95/301), 100 yards north of Grove Street (NC 24). Coming from the north on Business 95/301, take the service road on the left after crossing the Cape Fear River and proceed under the highway. Enter at the double gates and proceed to the visitor parking lot. Coordinates: N 35° 03’ 22” W 78° 51’ 32” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 74
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Sandhills Group
Cape Fear Botanical Garden
2
© Brady Beck
A view of the Cape Fear River
J. Bayard Clark Park Sandhills Group
401
Sherman Drive
Fayetteville
3 2
24 Ramsey St.
1
Center is full of wonderful exhibits on conservation and local wildlife, and has maps and printed trail guides available. Exhibits include live reptiles, large dioramas of local wildlife, information on bats and birds, and conservation recommendations. The nature center also offers occasional educational programs.
BUS
95
401 59
301
Site Information: Owner: City of Fayetteville 631 Sherman Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28301 Cumberland County 910-433-1579 www.fcpr.us/env_clark.php
About the Site: A 55-foot waterfall is one of the highlights of J. Bayard Clark Park. Three trails run through the 76-acre property: the short Laurel Trail, with mature pines and young hardwoods; the Bear Trail, which features uplands habitat, old agricultural fields, and pine forest; and the wetlands trail, which has mesic slopes, hardwood bottomlands, and native cane grass. Together, the three trails run approximately 1.5 miles, and claim a combined total of 120 resident and migrating bird species. A bird list for Clark Park and Cumberland County is available in the nature center. The Clark Park Nature
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Species of Interest: Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Indigo Bunting Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, small wetland communities, mesic forest, riverine aquatic communities Access & Parking: The Clark Park Nature Center is open 8am to 5pm, Monday–Saturday. The grounds can be accessed daily during daylight hours. The boat launch is for canoe/kayak only. Directions: From I-95, take Exit 52 to NC 24 West. Travel for 4 miles and turn right on US 401 Business North (Ramsey Street). Travel 2 miles and turn right on Sherman Drive. Follow Sherman Drive a short distance to the parking area. Coordinates: N 35° 05’ 16” W 78° 52’ 15” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 73
3 Cape Fear River Trail 401
Sherman Drive
Fayetteville
3 2
24 Ramsey St.
1 BUS
95
59
301
Site Information: Owner: City of Fayetteville 631 Sherman Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28301 Cumberland County 910-433-1579
Habitats: oak forest and mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, floodplain forest, river Access & Parking: The trail can be accessed daily during daylight hours. Directions: The Cape Fear River Trail may be accessed via J. Bayard Clark Park. From I-95, take Exit 52 to NC 24 West. Travel for 4 miles and turn right on US 401 Business North (Ramsey Street). Travel 2 miles and turn right on Sherman Drive. Follow Sherman Drive a short distance to the park. The northern terminus of the trail is at Treetop Drive, which can also be accessed from Ramsey Street.
About the Site:
ff Lew
is
Coordinates: N 35° 05’ 16” W 78° 52’ 15” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 73
© Je
Starting from the J. Bayard Clark Park Nature Center, the River Trail is a 4-mile paved trail that leads birders into a mature hardwood bottom, and through mixed pine and hardwood forests. Wooden bridges cross small streams and a series of small waterfalls, which provide good viewing spots for warblers, cardinals, vireos, catbirds, woodpeckers, and gnatcatchers. Parts of the path are adjacent to fields, which provide opportunities for viewing raptors, Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, and various sparrows. Points of the path overlook the Cape Fear River, where Wood Duck, Mallard, and other waterfowl or wading birds may be seen. Benches along the path allow for stationary birding. The south-to-north route is mostly downhill and slightly easier for visitors who wish to hike the trail in one direction.
Eastern Screech-Owl
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Sandhills Group
401
Species of Interest: Barred Owl, Louisiana Waterthrush, Prothonotary Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Blue Grosbeak
4 Carvers Creek State Park Spring Lake
McCloskey Rd.
401
4 295
Sandhills Group
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks McCloskey Road (SR 1610), north of Fayetteville, NC Cumberland County 910-692-2167 www.ncparks.gov
like squeaks of Red-cockaded Woodpecker and Brown-headed Nuthatch foraging among the trees, and the piercing whistle of the Broadwinged Hawk along the creek. Keep an eye out for Pine Warbler, Indigo Bunting, American Goldfinch, and woodpeckers. Other species of interest found in this almost 1400-acre park include Pine Barrens and other treefrogs, a variety of butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies, and seasonal wildflowers. Species of Interest: Broad-winged Hawk, Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Summer Tanager, Bachman’s Sparrow, Indigo Bunting Habitats: Oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, dry longleaf pine, small wetland communities
About the Site: Located just north of Fayetteville near NC 401 is Carvers Creek State Park. This new addition to the Division of Parks and Recreation, named for the brown-water stream which flows through it, offers remarkable walks through beautiful longleaf pine stands along rustic off-road paths. Enjoy the melodic trills of the Bachman’s Sparrow from the pines, the mouse-
Special Concern: At the present time (2007) there are no facilities, maps, signs, parking areas, or restrooms. Some facilities for the park are expected in the coming years. There is also an occupied house on the park land, west of the entrance road. Visitors should stay away from this part of the park unit and walk northward past the chain/gate on the entrance road, past the culvert and Carvers Creek, before they start taking side roads. Access & Parking: Park along McCloskey Road, beyond (west of) the chain/gate. Do not block the gate. The park can be accessed during daylight hours. Walk northward past the chain/gate on the entrance road, past the culvert and Carvers Creek, before taking any side roads. Directions: From the intersection of US 401 Business (Ramsey Street) and US 401 Bypass (Country Club Drive), drive north on US 401 for 4.2 miles and turn left (west) on McCloskey Road (SR 1610). Drive for 0.9 miles and the park entrance road (gated) is on the right. Coordinates: N 35° 10’ 23” W 78° 53’ 12” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 61
© Frank Ripp
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Red-cockaded Woodpecker
5 Raft Swamp Farms 401 Andrews Rd.
5
Wagram 211
Site Information: Contacts: Louie and Jackie Hough NC 211 at Andrews Road, near Raeford, NC Hoke County 910-263-4111 www.raftswampfarms.org
About the Site: Raft Swamp Farms is an approximately 150acre organic farm divided by low hedgerows into 3-acre tracts. The western border of the farm runs along Raft Swamp Creek, a tributary of the Lumber River. The diversity of cultivated plants is stunning, and the birds here are valued for providing natural insect control. The farm provides nesting structures for Purple Martin and Eastern Bluebird, and perching sites for Loggerhead Shrike and raptors. Weedy pasture and field edges provide extensive early successional habitat. Short marked and unmarked paths lead down into a gum-cypress swamp that has standing water in non-drought years, and attracts a variety
Species of Interest: Loggerhead Shrike, Prothonotary Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Indigo Bunting, Field Sparrow, Eastern Meadowlark Habitats: oak forest and mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, floodplain forest, small wetland communities Special Feature: Raft Swamp Farms is a nonprofit (501(c) 3) organic farm incubator affiliated with the Carolina Farm Stewardship Association. On-site training and educational opportunities include organic farming methods, herb culture, bee-keeping, alternative energy sources and applications, heirloom vegetables, and vermiculture. Access & Parking: Site visitation is by appointment only. Visitors can arrange visit times with Louie Hough at the number listed above. Parking is available in the entrance field. Walk in through the gate on the western edge of the parking area to follow trails leading around the many fields. The path through the woods leading to the swamp is located on the west side of the fields and will be marked with a wooden sign. Directions: From the Chamber of Commerce in downtown Raeford (red brick building, former train station) travel 5.1 miles southeast on NC 211 in the direction of Red Springs. Pass Andrews Road on the right and travel about 50 feet. Turn right and drive through the gate into the parking area in the field.
© Brady Beck
Coordinates: N 34° 54’ 14” W 79° 12’ 42” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 73
Cypress swamp
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Sandhills Group
8
of warblers, woodpeckers and waterfowl. The path continues around the agricultural field edge, which borders mixed pine and hardwood forests. The birding experience may be variable depending on season and weather conditions, but will dependably provide visitors with a glimpse of how organic farming works to enhance bird habitat and benefit wildlife. The farm manager will be happy to give an extensive tour of the farm operations.
6 All American Trail throated Vireos, Pine Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush and Summer Tanager. The trail east of Raeford Vass Road features signs interpreting training land stewardship, fire as an ecosystem management tool, local partnerships, and other forest activities that occur on Fort Bragg.
Fort Bragg Military Installation 6 211 Vass Rd.
7
Silver City
401
Raeford
Species of Interest: Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Prothonotary Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, Summer Tanager
Sandhills Group
Site Information: Owner: US Department of Defense, Fort Bragg Military Installation 1 Mile south of Raeford Vass Road/Plank Road intersection, west of Fayetteville, NC Hoke County 910-396-2544 x206 www.fortbraggmwr.com/AATrail/AATrailMain1.htm
Habitats: longleaf pine, small wetland communities, blackwater stream
About the Site: The All American Trail provides an excellent opportunity to view the longleaf pine–wiregrass community, an active Red-cockaded Woodpecker cluster, and blackwater stream habitat at Rockfish Creek. Walking west of Raeford Vass Road from the trailhead, several signs interpret longleaf pine ecosystem characteristics, Redcockaded Woodpecker life cycle and habitat requirements, and local endangered plant species and their habitat requirements. Look for white banded trees signifying a Red-cockaded Woodpecker cluster, less than 0.5 miles west of the trailhead, before Juniper Creek. A new bridge is being constructed over Rockfish Creek, located approximately 2 miles west of the trailhead at Raeford Vass Road. This section of the trail provides ample opportunity to observe breeding species, such as Brown-headed Nuthatch, Red-eyed and Yellow-
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Special Concern: Trail users should take note of closures and user instructions at trailheads before using the trail. Hunting is allowed on-site during certain times of the year, at which time the trail is closed. For more on hunting, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Access & Parking: The All American Trail can be accessed via trailheads both east and west of Raeford/Vass Road. Directions: From the intersection of US 401 and NC 211 in Silver City, travel 1.2 miles east on US 401 to Vass Road. Take Vass Road (which becomes Raeford/Vass Road) north approximately 3.3 miles to the boundary of the Fort Bragg Military Installation. The All American Trail parking area is located on the east side of the road. Coordinates: N 35° 02’ 28” W 79° 13’ 58” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 73
© Michael McCloy
Blue-headed Vireo
7 Calloway Forest forest before crossing through the streamhead pocosin wetland along two simple boardwalks. Keep an eye out for Red-cockaded Woodpecker activity and listen for Northern Bobwhite and Bachman’s Sparrow, among others.
Fort Bragg Military Installation 6 211 Vass Rd.
7 401
Site Information: Owner: The Nature Conservancy 3954 Aberdeen Road (NC 211), south of Aberdeen, NC Hoke County 910-246-0300 www.nature.org
About the Site: Calloway Forest contains excellent examples of open, fire-maintained, longleaf pine forest. Much of the preserve consists of mature, 80-100 year-old longleaf pines with a dense wiregrass understory. Visitors can walk along many miles of roads accessing the remainder of the preserve. Hunting is allowed on the preserve in certain seasons. A 0.5-mile loop provides formal access into the recently opened Calloway Community Nature Park. The trail highlights upland longleaf pine sandhills and streamhead pocosin wetlands. Leave from the parking area parallel to the vehicle access road after visiting the informational kiosk. Hiker and nature information is on the trail side of the kiosk; hunting information is on the vehicle access side. The path crosses the vehicle access road and passes a picnic area before the loop splits. In either direction, visitors will experience the dry sandhills longleaf
Species of Interest: Northern Bobwhite, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Bachman’s Sparrow Habitats: dry longleaf pine, small wetland communities Special Concern: Hunting is allowed on-site during certain times of the year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. The Calloway Community Nature Park is located in a No Hunting/Safety Zone. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Venomous snakes are present, though rarely seen. Birders are asked to remain on pre-defined trails and roads to avoid damaging sensitive or rare plants.
Sandhills Group
Raeford
Access & Parking: Please park in the parking area off of NC 211 for the Calloway Community Nature Park. Access is allowed year round during daylight hours. Directions: From US 1/15501 South in Aberdeen, turn left (south) on NC 211 and follow it for 11.5 miles. Signs for Calloway Community Nature Park will be on the left. From Raeford, take NC 211 north for approximately 5 miles; the signs will be the right coming from this direction. Coordinates: N 35° 00’ 44” W 79° 18’ 35” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 72 © Jeff Lewi s
Silver City
Red-headed Woodpecker
99
8 Lumber River State Park – Chalk Banks and upper sections 8
ing migrants. In the open field areas, watch and listen for Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, and Orchard Oriole. Other species of interest include American Alligator, many species of frogs, butterflies, dragonflies, and several rare wildflowers.
401 Andrews Rd.
5
Wagram 211
Species of Interest: Anhinga, Wild Turkey, Prothonotary Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Indigo Bunting
Sandhills Group
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks US 401, north of Wagram, NC Scotland, Hoke, Robeson County line 910-628-4564 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Lumber River State Park’s Chalk Banks Access Area is located on the upper reaches of the Lumber River, near the town of Wagram. This access area offers many interesting birding opportunities. Located where the coastal plain meets the sandhills region of the state, many species of both unique geographical areas can be found here. Wild Turkey are frequently seen on park roads. A canoe trip on the river in the spring or summer should provide opportunities to find Prothonotary Warbler and Hooded Warbler. Watch for Anhinga perching in trees above the river. Spring also brings the lively sounds of Northern Parula, Yellow-Throated Warbler © Michael McCloy and many other return-
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Habitats: dry longleaf pine, floodplain forest, pocosin, river Special Feature: The park office and other visitor amenities are located at the Princess Ann Access (east of I-95) and are detailed in the coastal plain trail guide. Access & Parking: The Chalk Banks Access Area is currently open Thursday - Sunday from 9am to 5pm, November - February; 9am to 6pm, March and October; 9am to 7pm, April, May and September; 9am to 8am, June – August. The Princess Ann Access Area is open from 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April, May, and September; 8am to 9pm, June - August. Directions: From Wagram, drive northeast on US 401 for 1 mile. The park entrance is on the left. The boat access and parking area is approximately 2 miles down the dirt road. Coordinates: N 34° 55’ 34” W 79° 21’ 16” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 72
Prothonotary Warbler
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© NC State Parks
Weymouth Woods
Pinehurst
Southern Pines Saunders Blvd.
5
Indiana Ave.
1
Aberdeen
Pinebluff
9 Ft. Bragg Blvd.
15
211
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 1024 Ft. Bragg Road, Southern Pines, NC 28387 Moore County 910-692-2167 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Weymouth Woods contains 898 acres of longleaf pine forest on three separate tracts. There are a total of 4.5 miles of trails that give access to all the habitats found at the 515-acre Weymouth Tract. Two Red-cockaded Woodpecker colony sites are within 200 yards of the visitor center. April and May are the best months to observe the birds nesting. Park staff can guide you and provide more information on seeing Red-cockaded Woodpecker and other birds of interest. A good spot during the spring and breeding season is the intersection of the Bower’s Bog Trail and Lighter Stump Trail. Watch and listen here for Eastern Wood-Pewee, Great Crested Flycatcher, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Praire Warbler, Summer Tanager, Bachman’s Sparrow, Blue Grosbeak and Indigo Bunting. Northern Flicker and Red-headed Woodpecker
are usally conspicuous. The Pine Island Trail and Gum Swamp trail skirt the edge of James Creek and several beaver ponds. These trails provide opportunities to find Prothonotary, Yellow-throated and Kentucky Warblers, and other songbirds. Dragonflies and damselflies are abundant along the creek, as are the venomous cottonmouth. (Stay on the trails and boardwalk!) Over 90 species of butterflies, 500 species of plants and 462 species of moths make Weymouth a very diverse and special place to visit. Species of Interest: Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Brownheaded Nuthatch, Prothonotary Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, Bachman’s Sparrow Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, dry longleaf pine, small wetland communities, creek Access & Parking: The park is open from 8am to 6pm, November – March; 8am to 7pm, April – October. The visitor center is open daily from 8am to 5pm. Directions: From Southern Pines at the intersection of US 1 and Saunders Blvd., take Saunders Blvd. to the intersection of Bethesda Road (watch for the brown sign for Weymouth Woods at this intersection). Turn left on Bethesda Road. Travel to the intersection of Fort Bragg and Indiana Avenue and go straight for 0.5 miles. The entrance to Weymouth Woods is on the left. Coordinates: N 35° 08’ 49” W 79° 22’ 08” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 60
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Sandhills Group
Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve
© Michael McCloy
Sandhills Group
10
Sandhills Game Land
Sandhills Game Land Derby Rd. (SR 1003)
Hoffman
McDonald Church Rd. (SR 1405)
10
15
1 Butler Dr./Hoffman Rd. (SR 1602)
177
Marston Rd.
Site Information: Owner: NC Wildlife Resources Commission US 1 N, near Hoffman, NC Richmond, Moore Counties 919-707-0050 www.ncwildlife.org
About the Site: Sandhills Game Land represents one of the largest examples of intact longleaf pine ecosystem left in North Carolina. The 60,000+ acres are maintained through active management, including controlled burning, and support a robust population of Red-cockaded Woodpecker. Drowning Creek provides excellent oppor-
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tunities to see migrating and breeding warblers in the dense, swampy creek-side habitat. The longleaf-wiregrass uplands off Derby Road are a good place to see Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Brown-headed Nuthatch, and Bachman’s Sparrow. The field trial course that winds through the woods west of Derby Road supports many early successional species such as Prairie Warbler and Field Sparrow. At the Fish Hatchery you will encounter a lake, hatchery ponds, and hardwood forest along the creek. Here you can also see Bald Eagle, Red-shouldered Hawk, and migrating shorebirds. In the Cooperative Upland habitat Restoration and Enhancement (CURE) area you will see longleaf pine forests that have been restored through timber thinning, groundcover establishment, and burning. Several of the hardwood/evergreen shrub drains have been managed to restore switchcane-dominated habitat. The CURE area offers excellent opportunities to observe Northern Bobwhite, Red-headed and Redcockaded Woodpecker, Yellow-breasted Chat, and Bachman’s Sparrow. Rare, fire-adapted plants and animals can be found throughout the Game Land.
Habitats: dry longleaf pine, early successional, floodplain forest, creek Special Concern: Hunting is allowed on Sandhills Game Land during certain times of the year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. A Hunter Camping Area is available on Sandhills Game Land during hunting seasons. Access & Parking: The Game Land can be accessed daily during daylight hours. Parking is available at access area in fields, along road shoulders, or near gates on the Game Land. Avoid parking in soft road shoulders, especially after rain events, as your vehicle may get stuck. During dry weather, sandy roads may require 4-wheel drive. The US Army trains on Sandhills Game Land year-round. Do not block roads, gates, or fire lanes with vehicles. Directions: There are multiple access points to good birding spots on Sandhills Game Land. The Thunder/Derby Road area can be accessed by turning west onto Thunder Road (SR 1102) off of US 1, approximately 0.5 miles south of Pinebluff. Proceed 6.2 miles to a set of 2 bridges over Drowning Creek. After this stop, continue west for 0.3 miles to merge onto Derby Road (SR 1003). After 0.52 miles you will see an abandoned road bed on the left that you can walk down toward Drowning Creek (est. 1.5-miles round trip). Continuing on Derby Road, over the next 2 miles you will pass through the Game Land with additional opportunities to walk on dirt roads. 4.8 total miles from the stop sign, Derby Road will dead-end at McDonald Church Rd. (SR 1475). Turn right (west), proceed 4.2 miles and turn left at the sign to the McKinney Lake Fish Hatchery. Proceed to lake and hatchery ponds. The
Hatchery can be accessed directly from US 1 by turning west onto SR 1475 at the Hoffman BP gas station and proceeding 4.3 miles. Another good birding spot is the Cooperative Upland habitat Restoration and Enhancement (CURE) area, a 5,000-acre portion of the Game Land which lies southeast of US 1. From the Hoffman BP, go 2.2 miles south on US 1 and turn left (southeast) onto Old Laurel Hill Road (SR 1601). After 1.8 miles, turn left (east) at the first 4-way dirt road intersection. Proceed 1.3 miles and turn left (north) at the next 4-way intersection onto Hoffman Rd. (SR 1602), which will carry you back to US 1 in Hoffman. You may stop along the side of the road and walk into the CURE area at any point. Coordinates: N 35° 00’ 29’ W 79° 37’ 29” (McKinney Lake Fish Hatchery) DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 72
Sandhills Group
Species of Interest: Northern Bobwhite, Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Prairie Warbler, Field Sparrow, Bachman’s Sparrow
© Brady Beck
Drowning Creek area
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© Micha
el McC
loy
Killdeer
Sandhills Group
While You’re In the Area Airborne & Special Operations Museum 100 Bragg Boulevard Fayetteville, NC 28302-0089 910-643-2766 www.asomf.org HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trails: Crossroads, PatriArts and Native Ways; Scenes of the Sandhills www.homegrownhandmade.com Lake Rim Park 2214 Tar Kiln Drive Fayetteville, NC 28304 910-424-6134 www.fcpr.us/pk_community.php The Malcolm Blue Farm 1177 Bethesda Road (Highway 5 South & E.L. Ives Drive) Aberdeen, NC 28315 910-944-7558 http://malcolmbluefarm.com/
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Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex 801 Arsenal Avenue Fayetteville, NC 28305 910-486-1330 http://ncmuseumofhistory.org/osm/mcf.html The Rankin Museum of American and Natural History 131 W. Church Street Ellerbe, NC 28338 910-652-6378 www.rankinmuseum.com
Welcome to the
Rockingham County Group
A
way from the hustle and bustle of the Piedmont Triangle and Triad regions lies the perfect place to experience nature and observe the quaint beauty of rural North Carolina. Take a canoe trip down the meandering Dan River or walk the ChinquaPenn Walking Trail, featuring scenic and
cultural points of interest near the historic Chinqua-Penn Plantation. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor opportunities at Lake Reidsville Recreational Park. There is much to learn about the region’s rich cultural history in the nearby communities of Eden, Reidsville, Madison, Mayodan, Stoneville and Wentworth.
You Are Here
Raleigh
Rockingham County Group
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95
© Salinda Daley
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Eden
700
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770
29
Stoneville 135 14 87
158
Wentworth
704
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Reidsville 65 150
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158 87
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Summerfield
Greensboro
0
61
5 Miles
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Raleigh 95
Rockingham County Group 1
Lake Reidsville Recreational Park
2
Chinqua-Penn Walking Trail
3
Dan River
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1 Lake Reidsville Recreational Park Reidsville
Waterworks Rd.
1
BUS
29
29
Site Information: Owner: City of Reidsville 630 Waterworks Road, Reidsville, NC 27320 Rockingham County 336-349-4738 www.ci.reidsville.nc.us
About the Site: There are two nature trails at Lake Reidsville that provide the best birding opportunities in this park. The first begins in the southwest corner of the soccer field. Park across the street, in the lot for Shelter #1, and walk along the tree line to the far corner of the field. This trail heads toward the lake, through mixed hardwood/pine forest. A variety of woodland songbirds can be seen and heard during the spring and summer months. At the lake, walk by the campground along the shoreline and cross a short walkway over a small cove, just downhill of Shelter #5. Though signs at the campground say ‘campers only beyond this point’, birders are allowed to enter the area as long as they are respectful of campers. The second nature trail weaves in and out of the newly completed disc-golf course. Watch for early successional species such as Prairie Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, and Indigo Bunting in the fields and open areas. Access this trail just south of the camp store, by a sign that says “Seclusion,” or from the disc-golf entrance behind the camp store. Wintering waterfowl can be seen from multiple access points along the lake shore. Ask staff at the camp store for specific directions.
Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, small wetland communities, lake Access & Parking: The park is open daily during daylight hours. There is a $2 entrance fee for non-residents ($1 for City of Reidsville residents). Directions: From US 29, take Exit 149 (Rockingham Community College Exit). Turn left at the top of the ramp. Go to the first stoplight and turn left, onto US 29 Business/South Scales Street. Go approximately 2 miles and turn right on Waterworks Road. The park entrance is 1 mile on the left. Coordinates: N 36° 17’ 34” W 79° 40’ 55” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 18
© Salinda Daley
Lake Reidsville Recreational Park
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Rockingham County Group
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Species of Interest: Prairie Warbler, Yellowbreasted Chat, Indigo Bunting, wintering waterfowl
© Salinda Daley
2
Chinqua-Penn Trail
Rockingham County Group
Chinqua-Penn Walking Trail 87
Salem Church Rd.
14
Wentworth 2 Wentworth St. 704
158 158
14
Reidsville
Site Information: Owner: Upper Piedmont Research Station, NC State University 1944 Wentworth Street, Reidsville, NC 27320-7302 Rockingham County 336-349-8347
About the Site: The Chinqua-Penn Walking Trail is located on the Upper Piedmont Research Station, next to Chinqua-Penn mansion. The site provides 1.5 miles of trail that meander past open pasture, creek, pond, and mature hardwood forest. An informational kiosk at the start of the trail provides displays about the area, the Penn family and the trail. Points of interest along the trail include the Penns’ Stew Site, an old log barn, Turkey Pond, a small waterfall, Lake Betsy,
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and a stone quarry. Watch for migrating and breeding songbirds in the forested portions of the trail. Early successional species such as Eastern Bluebird, Indigo Bunting, and Eastern Meadowlark may be spotted in the open fields and pastures. Be on the lookout for Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks soaring overhead, and for wading birds and wintering waterfowl in the ponds. Species of Interest: Indigo Bunting, Eastern Meadowlark, wintering waterfowl, wading birds Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, mesic forest, ponds Access & Parking: The site is open daily during daylight hours. An informational kiosk marks the start of the trail. Directions: From US 29 North, take the exit for NC 14 West. Travel for 3.2 miles to Salem Church Road and turn left. At the intersection of Wentworth Street, turn right and travel for 0.4 miles, past the Chinqua-Penn Plantation entrance, to the walking trail entrance on the right. Coordinates: N 36° 22’ 58” W 79° 42’ 03” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 18
3
© Salinda Daley
Dan River
Dan River
Species of Interest: Wood Duck, Barred Owl, Great Crested Flycatcher, Summer Tanager
770
3
135
87
Harrington Hwy. Bethlehem Church Rd.
14
Site Information: Contact: Rockingham County Government Six river access points, from Madison northeast to Eden Rockingham County 336-342-8138 www.ncnorthstar.com
About the Site: The Dan River is a slow river, well-suited for beginning to intermediate paddlers. The river flows past high banked slopes and floodplain forest, covering 38 river miles in Rockingham County before it flows northeast into Virginia. To plan a birding trip along the Dan, request a Rockingham County Rivers Guide at the phone number or web address above. Paddlers along this section of the river may hear the songs of migratory and breeding songbirds during the spring and summer, including Eastern WoodPewee, Hooded Warbler, and Summer Tanager. Also listen for the hoot of a Barred Owl, the rattle of the Belted Kingfisher, or the cries of Red-shouldered or Red-tailed Hawks overhead.
Habitats: river, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, early successional, mesic forest Special Concern: Paddlers should adhere to standard paddling safety precautions and should review the safety information in the Rockingham County Rivers Guide publication. Access & Parking: There are 5 access points along the Dan River between Madison and Eden: 1) Lindsey Bridge Road (SR 1138), 2) NC 704, 3) Settles Bridge Road (SR 2145), 4) Leaksville Landing on NC 87, 5) Eden boat ramp (NC Wildlife Resources Commission access) on Bethlehem Church Road (SR 2039). Directions: To the Eden boat ramp: from NC 14 at the Dan River crossing, just south of Eden, turn west on Harrington Highway (toward NC 87, 135, 770) and proceed 0.5 miles. Turn right on Bethlehem Church Road. The access is 0.5 miles on the right. For more information or directions to other access areas, request a Rockingham Rivers Guide from the phone number or web address above. Coordinates: N 36° 28’ 29” W 79° 45’ 00” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 18
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Rockingham County Group
Wading birds hunt along the river’s edge and waterfowl may be occasionally spotted.
Eden
k y Bec
© Brad
American Kestrel
Rockingham County Group
While You’re In the Area Chinqua-Penn Plantation 2138 Wentworth Street Reidsville, NC 27320 336-349-4576 www.chinquapenn.com Rockingham County Historical Sites www.RockinghamCountyHistory.com
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Welcome to the
Central Piedmont Group sites in the group that preserve and interpret the historical and cultural treasures of the region. In the most metropolitan of settings, protected areas like the Bog Garden resemble an urban oasis. Each site in this group offers educational opportunities in addition to a rich birding experience.
Central Piedmont Group
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estled in or near the urban setting of the Triad region are wonderful natural areas that offer visiting birders ample opportunity to see both unique and characteristic birds of the piedmont. Visitors can explore the Haw River as it flows through Guilford and Alamance counties, or visit the many
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220
Reidsville
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3
Stokesdale 68
150
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Summerfield
Oak Ridge
87
29
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Ossipee
61
220
2
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Greensboro
100
Gibsonville Elon
4
Sedalia Whitset
6
40
Haw River
Burlington
70
Graham 85
40
64 62
High Point
Alamance
Jamestown 7
87
1
Pleasant Garden
85 220 610
49
62
421
Archdale Trinity 22
Liberty 0
5 Miles
Randleman You Are Here 77
Raleigh 95
Central Piedmont Group 1
Cedarock Park
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Guilford Courthouse National Military Park
2
Haw River Trail – Glencoe Access
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Bur-Mil Park
3
Haw River State Park
7
Piedmont Environmental Center of High Point
4
The Bog Garden
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1
© Salinda Daley
Cedarock Park
62
Alamance 49
87
1 FriendshipPatterson Mill Rd.
Site Information: Owner: Alamance County Recreation and Parks Department 4242 R. Dean Coleman Road, Burlington, NC 27215 Alamance County 336-570-6759 www.alamance-nc.com/rec
About the Site: The 400-acre Cedarock Park in southern Alamance County offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities. Hiking trails, fishing ponds, playgrounds, mountain bike trails and athletic fields are interspersed with pre-Civil War buildings preserved on-site. Pick up a map at the park office. A series of nature trails begins beyond Shelter 3. The Yellow Trail is an easy 1.5-mile hike that passes through different forest types and old fields. Watch and listen
for Belted Kingfisher along Rock Creek, which bisects the property. Eastern Meadowlark, Indigo Bunting and other early successional species may be seen or heard in the open fields and meadows. The entrance drive also provides opportunity to spot these types of birds. The forested portions of the park host a variety of migrating and breeding songbirds from spring to fall. Species of Interest: Wild Turkey, Scarlet Tanager, Indigo Bunting, Eastern Meadowlark Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, floodplain forest, creek Access & Parking: The park is open daily from 8am to 6pm (with extended hours in the summer). The visitor center is open daily 8am to 5pm. Directions: From I-85/40 in Burlington, take Exit 145 and travel south on NC 49 for 6 miles. Turn left on Friendship-Patterson Mill Road. Travel 0.2 miles and turn left on R. Dean Coleman Road. The park entrance and gate are 0.6 miles along this road. Coordinates: N 35° 59’ 22” W 79° 26’ 47” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 38
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Central Piedmont Group
Cedarock Park
2 Haw River Trail – Glencoe Access 2
100 62
Elon
Burlington
Haw River
70
40
85
Graham
Site Information: Owner: Alamance County 2348 NC 62 North, Burlington, NC Alamance County 336-229-2410 www.thehaw.org
Central Piedmont Group
About the Site: The Haw River Trail is a 110-mile land and water-based trail planned from Haw River State Park in northern Guilford County to the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area in Chatham County. The entire Trail follows the Haw River corridor, providing nice birding opportunities throughout. Over 2 miles of trails at the Glencoe access include a small bridge leading visitors over the mill-race to a wooded island. Parking and the main trailhead are located at the Glencoe Paddle Access, at the corner of NC 62 and Glencoe Street (adjacent to the Glencoe Mill Village). One site on the trail worth visiting is a small bowl shaped wetland area with raised viewing opportunities. This area can be accessed by heading upriver from the parking area and through the mill village. Another paddle access and parking area is located 2 miles to the northwest, at the Indian Valley Paddle Access. These access points are connected by the Haw River Trail. Other nearby birding areas on the Haw River Trail include Swepsonville River Park and a river park in the town of Haw River, scheduled to be completed in Fall 2008.
© Salinda Daley
Haw River
Species of Interest: Wood Duck, Belted Kingfisher, Red-headed Woodpecker, Scarlet Tanager Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, river Special Feature: The Haw River Trail has multiple access points; for more information on other access areas and paddling information, visit the Web address above. Access & Parking: The access area is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From I-40, take Alamance Road (Exit 143) north for 1.2 miles. Turn right on Church Street and travel east for 2 miles to the NC 62 split north. Travel north on NC 62 for approximately 3 miles. After crossing the Haw River, turn left immediately on River Road/ Glencoe Street. The Glencoe Paddle Access and parking area are immediately on the left. Coordinates: N 36° 08’ 12” W 79° 25’ 37” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 18
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3 Haw River State Park 158
3 Spearman Rd.
29
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 339 Conference Center Drive, Browns Summit, NC 27214 Guilford, Rockingham Counties 336-342-6163 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Just north of Greensboro is Haw River State Park, one of North Carolina’s newest additions to the state park system. The Summit at Haw River State Park is an educational facility, with opportunities for young and old alike. The park trails meander through various communities, including floodplain swamp, piedmont oak-hickory, and early successional field. Each of these habitats provides excellent opportunities to see a wide range of birds. In the winter, look for kinglets and Brown Creeper. Along the boardwalk near the Haw River, Wood Duck and Mallard paddle about in the swamps, while woodpeckers and Blue Jay forage in the trees and snags. In the spring, Great Blue Heron return to their rookery just over the river near the boardwalk. It is not uncommon to see 40-50 nests in a season here. The early successional field can give great views of wintering sparrow species, including Fox and Song Sparrows.
© Phil Rhyne
Red-shouldered Hawk
Species of Interest: Wood Duck, Red-shouldered Hawk, Brown Creeper, Fox Sparrow Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, mesic forest, small wetland communities, floodplain forest Access & Parking: The park is open Monday – Friday during daylight hours, unless an overnight group is scheduled. Please call ahead to confirm hours of operation and check in at the front desk upon arrival. Directions: Take US 29 North from Greensboro to the Browns Summit exit (NC 150). Turn left (west) on NC 150 and continue thru Browns Summit where NC 150 veers to the right and crosses railroad tracks. Continue for approximately 3 miles more to Spearman Road. Fire station #33 is on the corner. Turn right on Spearman Road and go 1.4 miles. Turn left on Conference Center Drive. The road ends at the park entrance. Coordinates: N 36° 15’ 00” W 79° 45’ 24” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 17
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Central Piedmont Group
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© Salinda Daley
The Bog Garden
The Bog Garden 4
Central Piedmont Group
Wendover Ave.
220 421
Greensboro 6
40
Site Information: Owner: Greensboro Parks & Recreation Department 1105 Hobbs Road, Greensboro, NC 27410 Guilford County 336-373-2574 www.greensborobeautiful.org/TheBog.htm
About the Site: The Bog Garden is a small wetland area embedded within a residential section of Greensboro. Pick up a yellow trail guide at the informational kiosk at the Starmount Drive entrance. Follow the Feather and Fronds, Boardwalk, Creekside, or Nell Lewis trails to explore the property. The Boardwalk Trail leads to Benjamin Lake, a 7-acre artificial lake. During the winter, a wide variety of waterfowl visit the lake, including Hooded Merganser, Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, and Northern Shoveler. Mallard and Wood Duck are yearround residents. Spring and fall migrations attract thrushes, flycatchers, and wood warblers
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to the Bog Garden. Brown-headed Nuthatch and Eastern Screech-Owl are both known breeders. Another nearby birding opportunity, just 100 yards north on Hobbs Road, is the Bicentennial Garden, a formal garden with paved and mulched walkways through shrubs, mature pines, and open garden areas. Species of Interest: Hooded Merganser, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Great Crested Flycatcher, Hooded Warbler Habitats: floodplain forest, lake, small wetland communities Access & Parking: On-street parking for the Bog Garden is available on Starmount Farms Drive. A parking lot also is available at the entrance to the Bicentennial Garden, 100 yards farther along Hobbs Road on the left. The Bog Garden is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From I-40, take Exit 214 (Wendover Avenue) and travel north 2.3 miles to the intersection of Holden Road. Travel north for 1.5 miles on Holden Road to the intersection of Friendly Avenue. Turn right and go east on Friendly Road for 0.2 miles to the first traffic light at Hobbs Road. Turn left (north) on Hobbs Road and travel 0.3 miles to the intersection with Starmount Farms Drive. Turn right on Starmount Farms Drive. Coordinates: N 36° 05’ 28” W 79° 50’ 24” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 37
5 Guilford Courthouse National Military Park 6
spring and fall. Around the open areas, watch for Eastern Kingbird, Orchard Oriole and Indigo Bunting. Red-tailed and Red-shouldered Hawks may be seen soaring overhead.
Owls Roost Rd.
220
New New Garden Rd Rd.
5
Greensboro
Species of Interest: Eastern Kingbird, Wood Thrush, Northern Parula, Scarlet Tanager, Indigo Bunting
Site Information: Owner: National Park Service 2332 New Garden Road, Greensboro, NC 27410 Guilford County 336-288-1776 www.nps.gov/guco/
Special Features: A museum in the visitor center shows an introductory film on the human effects of the Revolutionary War Battle and a 10-minute film on the strategic movements of troops during the battle.
About the Site: Guilford Courthouse National Military Park offers several miles of paved walking trails for birders. A self-guided scenic loop road provides wayside exhibits and parking at 8 significant sites throughout the park. The park is historically significant as the site of the Revolutionary War Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Lush mixed hardwood forest is interspersed with early successional areas. Within the forested areas, watch and listen for Wood Thrush, Northern Parula, American Redstart, Scarlet Tanager and other migratory birds during the
Access & Parking: The park is open daily from 8:30am to 5pm. Before 8am and after 5pm, park only at the lot on Old Battleground Road or in Country Park off Ormond Road (accessed from Lawndale Avenue). Directions: From I-40, exit on Guilford College-Jamestown Road (Exit 213). Turn right on Guilford College Road and go north 2 miles, crossing Market Street and Friendly Avenue. Crossing Friendly Avenue, College Road becomes New Garden Road. Continue north past Guilford College campus and turn right on New Garden Road. Go east 3 miles, crossing Battleground Avenue (US 220), to the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park entrance on the right, at 2332 New Garden Road. Coordinates: N 36° 07’ 52” W 79° 50’ 47” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 17
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Central Piedmont Group
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, small wetland communities
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© Salinda Daley
A view of Lake Brandt
Bur-Mil Park Central Piedmont Group
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toward Lake Brandt to the north, or to Fishing Pond No. 2 to the south. Eastern Bluebird nest boxes dot the back field beyond the clubhouse. During the winter months, scan Lake Brandt for wintering waterfowl. In spring and fall, walk the trails in search of migrating songbirds.
Owls Roost Rd.
220
New New Garden Rd Rd.
5
Greensboro
Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Indigo Bunting, Eastern Kingbird, Brown-headed Nuthatch, wintering waterfowl Site Information: Owner: Guilford County 5834 Bur-Mil Club Road, Greensboro, NC 27410 Guilford County 336-373-3800 www.burmilpark.org
About the Site: Bur-Mil Park, situated just south of Lake Brandt, offers a variety of recreational opportunities. For the best birding opportunities, take Bur-Mil Club Road past the pool, playground, golf course and club house to the parking area at the end of the road. Visit the Frank A. Sharpe, Jr. Wildlife Education Center. Walk toward the fishing pier to access the Owls Roost Trail, which follows the lakeshore before looping back towards the golf shop and driving range. Another trail leaves from behind the wildlife center and splits in two directions -
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Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, lake Access & Parking: Parking is available at various spots along the 0.6-mile park road. The park is open daily from 8am to sunset. Directions: From I-40, exit on Guilford College-Jamestown Road (Exit 213). Turn right on Guilford College Road and go north 2 miles, crossing Market Street and Friendly Avenue. Crossing Friendly Avenue, College Road becomes New Garden Road. Continue north past Guilford College campus and turn right on New Garden Road. Go east 3 miles and turn left (north) on Battleground Avenue (US 220). Travel for 2.4 miles and turn right on Owls Roost Road. Turn left into Bur-Mil Park on Bur-Mil Club Road. Coordinates: N 36° 10’ 11” W 79° 52’ 03” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 17
7 Piedmont Environmental Center of High Point Jamestown High PointGreensboro Rd. 85
7
Oakdale River Rd. BUS
85
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Site Information: Owner: City of High Point 1220 Penny Road, High Point, NC 27265 Guilford County 336-883-8531 www.piedmontenvironmental.com © Salinda Daley
Piedmont Environmental Center
About the Site: The Piedmont Environmental Center of High Point is a 376-acre site, with more than 11 miles of trails that provide a variety of options for visiting birders. The Center is divided into the South Preserve and the North Preserve. A trail head leaves from the main entrance drive (South Preserve). Before the turn into the parking area, a large wooden sign denotes the various trails. Stop here to get your bearings and decide what part of the property you would like to explore. Birders have the option of searching in lush mixed hardwood forest, over wetland boardwalks, along marsh or lake edge, or in open meadow areas. The Raccoon Run Trail on the South Preserve, and the Deep River Trail and Hollis Rogers Trail on the North Preserve offer some of the best birding opportunities. Feeders around the environmental education building also offer easy views of birds. The Center is the southern terminus of the Guilford County Bicentennial Greenway (approximately 3 miles of which are on the Center’s property). The Greenway provides additional birding opportunities.
Species of Interest: Great Horned Owl, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Eastern Kingbird, Wood Thrush Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, small wetland communities, lake Access & Parking: The trails and grounds are open daily during daylight hours. The building is open 9am to 5pm, Monday – Saturday; 1pm to 5pm, Sunday. Directions: From I-85 Business between Greensboro and High Point, take the Oakdale River Road exit toward Jamestown. Turn left (south) on High Point-Greensboro Road for 1.3 miles. Turn right on Penny Road. The entrance to the Piedmont Environmental Center is on the right. Coordinates: N 36° 00’ 14” W 79° 57’ 15” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 37
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Central Piedmont Group
High Point
© Micha
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House Finch
Central Piedmont Group
While You’re In the Area Greensboro Arboretum Lindley Park, at Market Street & Starmount Drive Greensboro, NC 27410 336-373-2199 www.greensborobeautiful.org HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trail: Potters’ Wheels & Organic Fields www.homegrownhandmade.com The Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden 1105 Hobbs Road Greensboro, NC 27410 336-373-2199 www.greensborobeautiful.org
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Welcome to the
Northwest Piedmont Group
T
he piedmont meets the mountain foothills in this remarkable group that combines birding, inspiring scenery, and a historic slice of Winston-Salem. In this region, birders can explore over 5,600 acres of remote state parks, enjoy well-traveled paths in city parks and greenways, and enjoy scenic gardens.
The diverse area harbors lakes that support winter waterfowl, productive urban migration stopover sites, cultural options for visitors, and countless recreational opportunities. Within minutes you can go from quaint city venues to some of the most rustic and natural sections of the northwestern piedmont.
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Northwest Piedmont Group
You Are Here
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© Jason Anthony, NC State Parks
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Danbury 7
Pilot Mountain
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Madison
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Walnut Cove King 311 65
East Bend
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Rural Hall
Tobaccoville
Stokesdale 68 158
Bethania
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Kernersville
WinstonSalem
Lewisville
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Oak Ridge
Walkertown
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Greensboro
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Clemmons
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Wallburg Bermuda Run
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High Point
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Northwest Piedmont Group 1
Salem Lake, Salem Lake Creek Greenway, and Civitan Park
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Tanglewood Park & Arboretum
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Miller Park
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Pilot Mountain State Park
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Reynolda Gardens of Wake Forest University
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Hanging Rock State Park
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Historic Bethabara Park
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1 Salem Lake, Salem Lake Creek Greenway, and Civitan Park
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Site Information: Owner: Winston-Salem Parks and Recreation Department 1001 Salem Lake Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27102 Forsyth County 336-650-7677 http://cityofws.org/Home/Departments/ RecreationAndParks
About the Site: Salem Lake is a 365-acre reservoir that provides winter habitat for a variety of waterfowl, grebes, gulls and other birds. A 6.9-mile unpaved trail encircles the lake and provides excellent vantage points. For the best morning visibility, start on the south shore. Ruddy and Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead and grebes may be in open water, but watch coves closely for Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Black Duck and others. Ring-billed Gull are abundant and are sometimes joined by other gulls. Find Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Brown Creeper, Winter Wren, Hermit Thrush and kinglets along the shore and the 1.9-mile paved greenway that connects with Civitan Park to the west. Belted Kingfisher, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Pileated Woodpecker, Eastern Phoebe, and Pine Warbler are year-round residents. Warm weather brings Green Heron, Great Egret and occasional Osprey. Check the east end for Prothonotary Warbler. Civitan Park is a restoration area along Salem Creek with a variety of birds and wildflowers. Fall brings Wilson’s Snipe and several sparrow species. Spring welcomes warblers, orioles and other
migrants. Green Heron, Eastern Kingbird, Common Yellowthroat, Indigo Bunting, and Red-winged Blackbird are summer residents. The greenway continues west to Old Salem. An eastward extension from Salem Lake is planned. Species of Interest: Wilson’s Snipe, Brownheaded Nuthatch, Winter Wren, Prothonotary Warbler, wintering waterfowl Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, small wetland communities, lake, creek Access & Parking: The Salem Lake Creek Greenway can be accessed from Civitan Park or Salem Lake. The main parking lot at Salem Park is by the marina. Another small lot is at the east end of the lake on Linville Road. Call or check the website for marina gate hours, which vary seasonally. Civitan Park and the greenway are open from dawn until dusk. Civitan parking is always available from an entrance off of Martin Luther King Drive on the south side of Salem Creek. There is parking on the north side of Salem Creek behind the Anderson Center of Winston-Salem State University, but restrictions apply when school is in session. A drive on the south side of the creek leads to additional parking. Directions: Salem Lake and Civitan Park are connected via a 2-mile stretch of the Salem Lake Creek Greenway. To reach Salem Lake from downtown Winston-Salem, take I-40 Business east to Exit 6A (US 52/NC 8 South). Take the Stadium Drive exit (Exit 108C) toward Old Salem, and turn left on Stadium Drive. Turn right on South Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and proceed 0.4 miles to the stoplight at Reynolds Park Road. Travel 1.8 miles on Reynolds Park Road and turn left on Salem Lake Road. The park is at the end of this road. To reach the east end of the lake, go east on I-40 Business to Exit 10, then south about 0.5 miles on Linville Road. Coordinates: N 36° 05’ 41” W 80° 11’ 35” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 36
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Northwest Piedmont Group
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WinstonSalem
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Northwest Piedmont Group
Site Information: Owner: Winston-Salem Parks and Recreation Department 400 Leisure Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27103 Forsyth County 336-727-2063 http://cityofws.org/Home/Departments/ RecreationAndParks
About the Site: A 40-acre urban oasis, Miller Park is a prime spot in Winston-Salem to observe songbird migration. It also provides nesting habitat for several interesting species. Get close to birds on a compact network of paved trails through a mix of hardwoods and pine in bottomland, slope and upland habitats. In April and May, several thrush species hop across the paths, and flycatchers, vireos, warblers, tanagers and orioles flit about the trees. The park features Yellow-crowned Night-Heron that nest April - July near Picnic Shelters 1 & 2, usually in isolated pines. Barred Owl, Cooper’s and Red-shouldered Hawks nest in the park; please do not disturb nest sites. Check pines for Brown-headed Nuthatch and Pine Warbler. Woodpeckers, Eastern Phoebe, White-breasted Nuthatch and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher also nest here. In late fall and winter, the park stays alive with Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, kinglets, Brown Creeper, Hermit Thrush, sparrows and the year-round residents. Bring a picnic, or enjoy the playground, tennis courts, ball fields or recreation center. The Audubon Society of Forsyth County is a city Adopt-a-Park sponsor.
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© Jeff Lemons
Yellow-crowned Night-Heron
Species of Interest: Yellow-crowned NightHeron, Cooper’s Hawk, Barred Owl, Brown Creeper, spring migrants Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, creek Access & Parking: The park is open during daylight hours. The paved trails and most shelters are wheelchair accessible. The Queen Street parking lot provides the best access to the woodlands and picnic shelters, but other lots are available by the tennis courts and on the upper level. Directions: From downtown Winston-Salem, take I-40 Business west to Knollwood Street (Exit 3A). Turn left on Knollwood Street, proceed across Stratford Road, and turn left onto Queen Street at the next stoplight. Parking is on the right in 0.1 miles. Coordinates: N 36° 05’ 13” W 80° 17’ 04” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 36
3 Reynolda Gardens of Wake Forest University 4
Hermit Thrush, and Dark-eyed Junco. In spring, take the detour through a small wildflower garden along the creek.
52 University Pkwy.
Silas Creek Pkwy.
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WinstonSalem
Species of Interest: Black-billed Cuckoo, Swainson’s Thrush, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Scarlet Tanager, Rose-breasted Grosbeak 40
Site Information: Owner: Wake Forest University 100 Reynolda Village, Winston-Salem, NC 27106 Forsyth County 336-758-5592 www.reynoldagardens.org
About the Site: Wake Forest University operates 129 acres of this former estate of R.J. and Katharine Smith Reynolds. Spring migration is prime birding time at Reynolda. On the right side of the lawn as you face the Reynolda House is Warbler Lane. The trees here are alive with vireos, warblers, orioles, tanagers and grosbeaks from mid-April to mid-May. Walk up the road away from the house, past the entrance to an unpaved trail and check the tree lines for additional activity. Return to the trail to continue searching for warblers, as well as cuckoos, woodpeckers, flycatchers, and thrushes. This trail connects to a woodland loop with side paths to explore. Adjacent to the lower parking lot is a marsh created years ago when sediment filled the bed of Lake Katharine. Access the woodland loop here, but first check the marsh for Spotted and Solitary Sandpipers, Cedar Waxwing, Red-winged Blackbird, warblers and resident raptors. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are active in summer, and all three local owl species are seen at times near the lake or the house. Winter is good for Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Ruby-crowned and Golden-crowned Kinglets, Swamp and White-throated Sparrows,
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, small wetland communities, early successional Special Features: The grounds also include formal gardens and a plant shop, the Reynolda House Museum of American Art, and the Reynolda Village Shops. There is a fee for house tours and the museum, which also hosts plays, concerts and other special events. Access & Parking: The museum grounds, gardens and woodland trails are open daily during daylight hours. Park in the lower lot at Reynolda Village, or on either side of the lawn in front of the Reynolda House Museum of Art. The lower lot has no curfew, but gates to the Reynolda House area of the grounds close at the stated times. A map and checklist are on the website, or ask at the garden shop during open hours. Directions: Reynolda Gardens is located off Reynolda Road, adjacent to the campus of Wake Forest University. From I-40 Business, take Exit 2 (Silas Creek Parkway North) and follow Silas Creek Parkway for approximately 4 miles. Bear right at the Wake Forest University exit. At Reynolda Road, turn right at the stoplight, then left 0.3 miles to the first stoplight, entering Reynolda Village at By Way Street. Turn left and then take an immediate right to park in the lower lot behind the white barn. Alternatively, proceed past By Way another 0.2 miles and turn left at the entrance to Reynolda House Museum of American Art. Coordinates: N 36° 07’ 38” W 80° 17’ 04” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 16, 36
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Northwest Piedmont Group
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4 Historic Bethabara Park 4
Species of Interest: Wood Duck, Brownheaded Nuthatch, Wood Thrush, Indigo Bunting
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Silas Creek Pkwy.
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WinstonSalem
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, mesic forest, small wetland communities 40 BUS
Site Information: Owner: Historic Bethabara Park 2147 Bethabara Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27106 Forsyth County 336-924-8191 www.bethabarapark.org
Northwest Piedmont Group
About the Site: Birds flock to this archeological site and nature preserve where Winston-Salem began. Watch for Eastern Bluebird as you stroll from the visitor center to a paved greenway behind the stockade. In winter, the greenway supports both Goldenand Ruby-crowned Kinglets, various sparrow species, and occasionally Rusty Blackbird and Purple Finch. Spring brings vireos, warblers and tanagers. Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Wood Thrush and Brown Thrasher nest in summer. Check for Barred Owl near the hillside path to God’s Acre. The Upper Trail at the God’s Acre area is good for woodpeckers, spring thrushes, Ovenbird, and Northern Parula. From the greenway, cross Old Town Road and bird along the Lower and Mill Creek Trails. Both ultimately lead to the “Beaver Pond” wetland. A marsh boardwalk along the east edge links two observation decks. Beaver and otter are sometimes seen, and regular bird species include Wood Duck, Red-shouldered Hawk, herons, flycatchers, woodpeckers, Common Yellowthroat, Indigo Bunting, and Brown-headed Nuthatch. Eastern Phoebe nest at the Reynolda Road Bridge. Winter Wren and Swamp and Savannah Sparrows are found in winter. The Park has a nature trail behind the Visitor Center, while another path leads to Sciworks (1 mile north).
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Special Features: This 180-acre National Historic Landmark was the 1753 settlement of Moravians who later founded the Salem community four miles to the south. The city-managed Park includes archeological ruins, a reconstructed palisade fort, a 1788 church, historic God’s Acre Cemetery and colonial community and medicinal gardens, in addition to the Poindexter Wilderness Preserve. Access & Parking: The park is open daily during daylight hours. The visitor center is open April – November, 10:30am to 4:30pm, Tuesday – Friday; 1:30pm to 4:30pm, Saturday and Sunday. Park behind the visitor center. Additional parking is immediately right of the “T” intersection, around the curve on Old Town Road, and at the God’s Acre Parcourse and Upper Trail further up Old Town. Parking for the wetland also is available in the Reynolda Commons Shopping Center, at the intersection of Reynolda and Yadkinville Roads. Directions: Historic Bethabara has directional signs on main roads. From downtown Winston-Salem and I-40 Business, take Cherry Street (Exit 5) north for 1 mile to a merge with University Parkway. Stay on University for 4.1 more miles to Bethabara Park Boulevard. Turn left and go 1.0 miles to Bethania Station Road. Turn left and at the “T” intersection, turn left on Bethabara Park Road. Go 0.1 miles and park behind the visitor center. To drive to the wetland, return to Bethabara Park Road, turn left and go 1.0 miles to Reynolda Road. Turn left and go 0.2 miles to the Reynolda Commons Shopping Center. Park near Harris-Teeter and take the greenway under Reynolda Road. Coordinates: N 36° 09’ 17” W 80° 17’ 46” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 16
5 Tanglewood Park & Arboretum Clemmons
Species of Interest: Wood Duck, Redheaded Woodpecker, Cliff Swallow, Brownheaded Nuthatch, Prothonotary Warbler, Baltimore Oriole
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Bermuda Run
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Site Information: Owner: Forsyth County 4061 Clemmons Road, Clemmons, NC 27102 Forsyth County 336-778-6319 www.tanglewoodpark.org
About the Site: The varied habitats of this 1200-acre park along the Yadkin River offer birding opportunities year-round. On the main road, the stable area is the best chance in the county to see Red-headed Woodpecker; Mallard Lake is another good spot. Look for Baltimore Oriole nesting in walnut trees behind the Manor House and for woodpeckers, Brown Thrasher, and other species in the Arboretum area. Return to the main drive, turn left at the locomotive and park at Skilpot Lake. Walk the BMX road (usually closed to cars) to seek out Barred Owl and Brown-headed Nuthatch. Stop at the marsh for Swamp and Savannah Sparrows in winter. Green Heron, Wood Duck, Eastern Kingbird, Common Yellowthroat, and Blue Grosbeak are possible in summer. Travel along the far tree line for White-crowned and other sparrows in winter, and nesting songbirds in summer. Prothonotary Warbler nest at a wooded wetland in the southwest corner. At the BMX road entrance, a side trail also leads you to the river and excellent warbler habitat during spring migration. Cliff Swallows nest at the I-40 and US 158 bridges. The NC Bluebird Society maintains a park bluebird trail.
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, mesic forest, small wetland communities Special Features: Tanglewood County Park was formerly the estate of both William Reynolds and Kate Smith Reynolds. You can find state record white oak and black walnut trees near the manor. Access & Parking: The park is open daily from 7am to sunset. The visitor center is open daily from 8am to 5pm. There is a $2 admission fee (per vehicle) into the park. The visitor center has a small parking lot outside of the toll booth. There are parking areas throughout the park, including the Manor House, the Mallard Lake picnic area and Skilpot Lake. Directions: From I-40 West, take Exit 182 (Harper Road). Turn left on Harper Road and travel for 0.4 miles. Turn right on US 158. The park entrance is 0.1 miles on the left. The Canoe Access area is 0.1 miles west of the main park entrance on U.S. 158. Coordinates: N 36° 00’ 11” W 80° 24’ 24” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 36
© Melissa McGaw
Baltimore Oriole
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Northwest Piedmont Group
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6 Pilot Mountain State Park Pilot Mountain 268 52
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Northwest Piedmont Group
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 1792 Pilot Knob Park Road, Pinnacle, NC 27043 Surry County 336-325-2355 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: You can see Pilot Mountain rising more than 1,400 feet above the rolling countryside of the upper Piedmont plateau as you approach the park. The mountain section of Pilot Mountain State Park is forested in typical northern piedmont mixed hardwoods/pine, with elevation ranging from approximately 1000 feet above sea level to 2400 feet, culminating in a quartzite monadnock at the summit area. The Little Pinnacle Overlook offers hikers a close-up view of Big Pinnacle and distant views of the valley below. The 2-mile portion of the Yadkin River that flows through the park’s lower elevation is one of the most scenic stretches along the river’s course. Here, the river is broad and shallow. Two small islands, 45 and 15 acres in size, lie in the river. A 6.5-mile woodland corridor links the two sections of the park. Camping is available at the mountain section. All sections have hiking trails and day use facilities. Migrating raptors may be observed from the summit area starting in late September into November. A wide variety of birds associated with water may be seen in the river section, including Bald Eagle, Snowy Egret, and an occasional Green Heron.
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© Janet Pearson, NC State Parks
Pilot Mountain
Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Common Raven, migrating raptors Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, mesic forest, river Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April, May, and September; 8am to 9pm June – August. The park office is open 8am to 5pm, weekdays. Directions: From Pinnacle, take US 52 north to the Pilot Mountain State Park exit and travel west to the park entrance. To reach the north River Section, take the Pinnacle exit from US 52 and follow the signs to Horne Creek Farm. The park entrance is 0.5 miles beyond the Horne Creek Farm entrance. Coordinates: N 36° 20’ 25” W 80° 28’ 48” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 16
7 Hanging Rock State Park Species of Interest: Broad-winged Hawk, Peregrine Falcon, Common Raven, Blackthroated Green Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Hooded Warbler
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Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks Hanging Rock Road, Danbury NC 27016 Stokes County 336-593-8480 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Not far from the urban landscape of the Triad cities, there is another North Carolina to be discovered. Hanging Rock State Park offers sheer cliffs and peaks of bare rock, quiet forests and cascading waterfalls, and views of the piedmont plateau that stretch for miles. Hike the Moore’s Wall Loop trail to find the rare Peregrine Falcon or hear the guttural croaks of a Common Raven. Look to the sky to witness one of these cliff dwellers perform aerial acrobatics during courtship. Enjoy a short stroll to any of the five waterfalls in the park and listen for Black-throated Green Warbler and Hooded Warbler along the way. For a chance to see the elusive Worm-eating Warbler, hike the Tory’s Den Trail over Huckleberry Ridge. Covering more than 7,000 acres, Hanging Rock State Park is a haven for birds, as well as beautiful displays of mountain laurel and rhododendron in the spring and a colorful palette of deciduous leaves that turn in early autumn. Be sure to pick up a trail map at the visitor center. Hanging Rock State Park has more than 18 miles of hiking trails, some of which are quite long, with significant elevation changes.
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, mesic forest, rock cliffs Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April, May and September; 8am to 9pm, June – August. The visitor center is open 9am to 4:45pm, daily. Directions: From Danbury, take SR 8/89 north for 2 miles. Turn left on Hanging Rock Road (SR 2015). Go 2 miles to the park entrance at the end of the road. Coordinates: N 36° 23’ 42” W 80° 15’ 59” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 16
© Jason Anthony, NC State Parks
Hanging Rock State Park
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Northwest Piedmont Group
Danbury Hanging Rock State Park Rd.
Northwest Piedmont Group
© Jeff Lewis
Wilson’s Snipe
While You’re In the Area Delta Arts Center 2611 New Walkertown Road Winston-Salem, NC 27105 336-722-2625 www.deltafinearts.org
Reynolda House Museum of American Art 2250 Reynolda Road Winston-Salem, NC 27106 336-758-5150 www.reynoldahouse.org
Horne Creek Farm 308 Horne Creek Farm Road Pinnacle, NC 27043 336-325-2298 www.ah.dcr.state.nc.us/Sections/HS/horne/ horne.htm
SciWorks 400 West Hanes Mill Road Winston-Salem, NC 27105 336-767-6730 www.sciworks.org
Old Salem Museums and Gardens 900 South Main Street Winston-Salem, NC 27101 888-653-7253 www.oldsalem.org
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Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art 750 Marguerite Drive Winston-Salem, NC 27106 336-725-1904 www.secca.org
Welcome to the
High Rock Group Raleigh and Charlotte. Waterfowl, wading birds, Bald Eagle, and Osprey are abundant on the reservoir - or along its vast shoreline - at certain times of the year, and a variety of songbirds fill the adjacent forests year-round. The nearby cities of Lexington and Salisbury offer a variety of cultural amenities to visitors.
High Rock Group
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pland forests of mixed pines and hardwoods cloak the rolling hills that border High Rock Lake, a reservoir in the western piedmont totaling over 15,000 acres. The region around the lake contains some of the largest contiguous blocks of forest remaining in the urbanizing piedmont “Interstate-40 Crescent” between
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High Rock Group 1
Boone’s Cave Park
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Catawba College Ecological Preserve
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Dan Nicholas Park
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Dunn’s Mountain History and Nature Preserve
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Eagle Point Nature Preserve
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Alcoa Game Land – Newsom Road
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About the Site: Boone’s Cave Park is a 100-acre site that offers hiking trails through a rolling forest of mixed hardwoods. Due to the topography of the area, the park contains patches of high-elevation plant communities, more reminiscent of the North Carolina mountains than the piedmont. Forty-six acres of the park are designated as a Natural Heritage Site and contain wildflower species normally found only in the Appalachian Mountains. In summer, watch for glimpses of vireos, Black-and-white Warbler, Northern Parula and tanagers as you travel the trails. In winter, check for Yellow-bellied Sapsucker and other woodpecker species. From the parking lot, head out to the overlook above the Yadkin River. A set of 80 steps will take you down to Boone’s Cave, an 80-foot long fissure cave that Daniel Boone is rumored to have hidden in. A 1-mile loop trail in the park takes you through floodplain forest, wooded coves and upland dry oak-hickory forest. There is also a 0.5-mile trail through floodplain forest that will leads to the state’s prized Cottonwood tree.
© John Ennis
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Species of Interest: Great Crested Flycatcher, Hooded Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Northern Parula, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, mesic forest, small wetland communities Access & Parking: The park is open from 8am to 8pm, May – September; 8am to 5:30pm, October – April. Directions: From I-85 North, take Exit 83 (NC 150).* Travel west on NC 150 for 5 miles and turn left on Boone’s Cave Road. Stay on Boone’s Cave Road for 3.4 miles to the park. *From I-85 South, take Exit 85 and turn right on Clark Road. Turn left on Old Salisbury Road. Turn right on NC 150 and follow the directions from above. Coordinates: N 35° 47’ 56” W 80° 28’ 03” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 36
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High Rock Group
Site Information: Owner: Davidson County Parks and Recreation Department 3552 Boones Cave Road, Lexington, NC 27295 Davidson County 336-242-2285 www.co.davidson.nc.us/Recreation/ default.asp
2 Catawba College Ecological Preserve Spencer
2 Innes St.
Species of Interest: Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Prothonotary Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, Summer Tanager, Indigo Bunting, wintering waterfowl
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High Rock Group
Site Information: Owner: Catawba College 2300 West Innes Street, Salisbury, NC 28144 Rowan County 704-637-4727 www.catawba.edu
About the Site: The Catawba College Ecological Preserve is a 189-acre tract located behind the OmwakeDearborn Chapel, in the northeastern section of the Catawba College campus. A small lake and other specially created study/research areas have been developed on the property. Over 150 bird species have been identified at the Preserve. During the spring and summer months, watch for a variety of warblers, including Northern Parula, Yellow-breasted Chat, Black-throated Blue, and Black-andwhite Warblers. Flycatchers, vireos, tanagers, thrushes, and wrens are also common. During your visit, watch overhead for soaring hawks. In winter, a variety of sparrows can be seen in the fields and open areas. Scan Lake Baranski and the impoundments for migrating shorebirds and wintering waterfowl, including Northern Pintail, Bufflehead, Northern Shoveler, and Hooded Merganser.
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional, floodplain forest, small wetland communities Access & Parking: Look for the Center for the Environment building on the left; a gravel driveway is at the back of the building. Walk down the driveway and watch for a path/trail to the right that leads into the Catawba College Ecological Preserve. The preserve is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From downtown Salisbury, proceed west on Innes Street approximately 3 miles to the Catawba College campus. Make the first right-hand turn after the brick walls and proceed straight back toward the tree line (behind Robertson College Community Center) to the parking area. Coordinates: N 35° 41’ 22” W 80° 28’ 50” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 36
© John Ennis
Hermit Thrush
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3 Dan Nicholas Park Bringle Ferry Rd.
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Providence Church Rd.
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Site Information: Owner: Rowan County Parks and Recreation Department 6800 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC 28146 Rowan County 704-216-7800 www.dannicholas.net
About the Site: Dan Nicholas Park is a 485-acre park that contains a mixture of natural areas and recreational facilities, including ball fields, a petting barn, a campground, and a small amusement park. The best birding is found along the
two hiking trails on the property. The 2-mile Persimmon Branch Trail meanders through pine/hardwood forest and a stream bottom with a short boardwalk and a bridge. Hairy Woodpecker, Red-eyed Vireo, Wood Thrush, Ovenbird, tanagers, and numerous other songbirds nest along the trail. The 1.3-mile Volkssport Trail begins across from the campground store. Habitat along this trail primarily is upland forest, but a portion of the trail leads through mid-successional habitats adjacent to agricultural fields. Birding near the fields is best during fall and winter. Wintering waterfowl may be seen on Lake Murtis. A map of the park can be downloaded from the internet or picked up at the concession stand on Lake Murtis. Species of Interest: Wood Thrush, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, wintering waterfowl Habitats: pine/hardwood forest, early successional, floodplain forest, lake Access & Parking: The park is open daily from 8am to dusk. The visitor center is open daily from 10am to 5pm. To access the Persimmon Branch Trail or Lake Murtis, visitors should park in the Lakeside Parking lot. Directions: From the intersection of I-85 and Jake Alexander Boulevard (Exit 75), travel 2 miles east on Jake Alexander Boulevard, where the road ends at Stokes Ferry Road. Turn right onto Stokes Ferry Road. Continue 4.5 miles to the intersection of Providence Church Road. Turn left and continue 1.5 miles to the intersection of Bringle Ferry Road. Turn right and continue 0.25 miles to the park entrance on the left. Coordinates: N 35° 37’ 56” W 80° 21’ 23” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 36
© Michael McCloy
Ring-necked Duck
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High Rock Group
Stokes Ferry Rd.
4 Dunn’s Mountain History and Nature Preserve Stokes Ferry Rd.
Species of Interest: Wood Thrush, Scarlet Tanager, migrating raptors
Bringle Ferry Rd.
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Providence Church Rd.
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High Rock Group
Site Information: Owner: Rowan County Parks and Recreation Department 1740 Dunn’s Mountain Road, Salisbury, NC 28146 Rowan County 704-216-7800 www.co.rowan.nc.us/parks/
About the Site: At 85 acres in size, this Rowan County nature preserve is fairly small, but it is worth the stop to see the spectacular view from the top of Dunn’s Mountain. The panoramic scene includes two retired rock quarries, downtown Salisbury, and portions of the southwestern Piedmont. A wide, gravel trail winds for 0.25 miles up the side of the mountain, which is actually a granitic monadnock (an isolated hill of erosion resistant rock rising above an eroded lowland). A fence along the entire trail prevents birders from entering the forest at the preserve. Birding is best during migration periods. At these times, songbirds can be viewed along the trail and raptors can be seen in flight from the observation deck at the top. A welcome center and observation deck are present at the top of Dunn’s Mountain. A shuttle runs up and down the mountain on the weekends.
Habitats: pine/hardwood forest, early successional, rock outcrops Access & Parking: From March through September, the park is open on Friday and Saturday from 11am to 7pm. On Sunday, it is open from 12:30pm to 7pm. Updated hours of operation also are online. Directions: From the intersection of I-85 and Jake Alexander Boulevard (Exit 75), travel 2 miles east on Jake Alexander Boulevard, where the road ends at Stokes Ferry Road. Turn right onto Stokes Ferry Road. Continue just over 1.5 miles to the intersection of Dunn’s Mountain Road. Turn right and the park entrance is 0.25 miles on the left. Coordinates: N 35° 37’ 34” W 80° 25’ 39” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 36
© David Kilpatrick
Northern Mockingbird
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5 Eagle Point Nature Preserve
5 Bringle Ferry Rd.
Black Rd.
Site Information: Owner: Rowan County Parks and Recreation Department 665 Black Road, Salisbury, NC 28146 Rowan County 704-216-7819 www.co.rowan.nc.us/parks/
About the Site: The quiet seclusion and convenient access to High Rock Lake make the Eagle Point Nature Preserve an ideal destination for birders. Vehicle traffic is not allowed beyond the parking area, so most of the 200-acre property is accessible only by foot. Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Great Crested Flycatcher, Summer Tanager, and several woodpecker species can be found
Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Yellowbilled Cuckoo, Barred Owl, Great Crested Flycatcher, Summer Tanager, wintering waterfowl Habitats: oak forest and mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, lake Access & Parking: During spring, summer and fall, the park is open 9am to 5pm, Friday – Sunday; during winter, the park is open 9am to 5pm, Saturday – Sunday. To schedule a visit to the park on other days, birders should call 704-216-7819 ahead of time. Updated hours of operation also are available online. Directions: From the intersection of I-85 and Jake Alexander Boulevard (Exit 75), travel 2 miles east on Jake Alexander Boulevard, where the road ends at Stokes Ferry Road. Turn right onto Stokes Ferry Road. Continue 4.5 miles to the intersection of Providence Church Road. Turn left and continue 1.5 miles to the intersection with Bringle Ferry Road. Turn right at the intersection and continue 5.25 miles. Turn left onto Black Road. Continue 0.7 miles to entrance sign at Eagle Point Nature Preserve. Turn right and continue to parking area.
© Jeff Lemons
Coordinates: N 35° 36’ 14” W 80° 16’ 00” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 58
Osprey
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in summer along the entrance road. Three walking trails wind through the preserve. Plant Loop Trail traverses approximately 0.75 miles of upland forest, but a spur path approximately 50 yards from the parking lot ends at a quiet lake cove. At the cove, Barred Owl might be heard and Belted Kingfisher, herons, egrets, and waterfowl can often be found. Goldeneye Cove Loop Trail continues 1.5 miles through upland forest but leads to Goldeneye Cove. This spot allows easy views of wading birds and waterfowl. Eagle Point Loop Trail (1.25 miles) winds through more upland forest but Bald Eagle and Osprey are commonly seen at the various locations where the trail opens onto the lake.
6 Alcoa Game Land – Newsom Road Newsom Rd.
8
6
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Site Information: Contact: NC Wildlife Resources Commission (manager); Alcoa Power Generating Incorporated (owner) Newsom Road, off NC 8, west of Denton, NC Davidson County 919-707-0050 www.ncwildlife.org
© Chuck Carmack
Red-tailed Hawk
About the Site: The Newsom Road section of Alcoa Game Land is located adjacent to the Yadkin River in a relatively rural portion of the North Carolina piedmont. The area contains a variety of habitats and associated bird species. Acadian Flycatcher, Wood Thrush, American Redstart, and Kentucky Warbler breed in the floodplain forests along the river. Bald Eagle and Wild Turkey are possible year round. In the winter, waterfowl may be present in the wetlands near the parking area. There are no improved trails, so keen birders may wish to hike through the woods, paying close attention to posted signs and regulations. During the spring and fall, migrating songbirds can be easily found along Newsom Road. Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, American Redstart, Kentucky Warbler, Hooded Warbler, wintering waterfowl Habitats: pine/hardwood forest, floodplain forest, river
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Special Concerns: Hunting is allowed on Alcoa Game Land during certain times of year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting season safety precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Access & Parking: Parking is available at the end of Newsom Road, adjacent to the railroad tracks. Birders may walk north or south around the lake on lands marked with the Game Lands emblem. Directions: From the town of Denton, take NC 109 south for 6 miles. Turn right on NC 49 and travel west for 4 miles. Turn right on NC 8 and travel north for 1.2 miles to Stokes Road. Turn left on Stokes Road and continue for 1.6 miles to the intersection of Newsom Road. Turn left on Newsom Road and continue for 1.3 miles until the road ends at the railroad tracks. Coordinates: N 35° 32’ 13” W 80° 11’ 29” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 58, 59
© Harry
Sell
While You’re In the Area Davidson County Historical Museum 2 South Main Street Lexington, NC 27292 336-242-2035 www.co.davidson.nc.us/museum/ HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trail: Burning Rubber and Riding the Rails www.homegrownhandmade.com
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Hooded Merganser
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© Brady Be
A piedmont forest stream
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Welcome to the
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surprising vista reminiscent of mountain travel. Throughout the area, small historic towns and local artisans offer unique travel accommodations and cultural experiences to augment birding opportunities. Outdoor enthusiasts can find everything from state-of-the-art campgrounds to isolated wilderness camping, providing many ways to experience the Uwharries.
Uwharrie Group
T
he Uwharries are the oldest mountain range in North America; geologists believe they were formed about 500 million years ago from an ancient chain of volcanoes. The steep, jagged summits have worn down over time from an estimated 20,000 feet to the current 1,000 feet. Today, the rolling hills and valleys still provide an occasional
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You Are Here
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Asheboro 109
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Denton
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Seagrove
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704 73 134
Badin Lake
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New London
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Badin Star 6
Troy
Albemarle
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Biscoe
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24 211
Candor 138
52 73 0
Norwood
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Mount Gilead
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Uwharrie Group 1
NC Zoological Park
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Uwharrie National Forest – Birkhead Wilderness Area
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Uwharrie National Forest – Densons Creek
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Uwharrie National Forest – Uwharrie National Recreational Trail & Dutchman’s Creek Trail
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Uwharrie National Forest – Badin Lake Recreation Area
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Morrow Mountain State Park
1 NC Zoological Park 42 159 220
1 NC Zoo Rd.
Old Cox Rd.
Site Information: Owner: NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources 4401 Zoo Parkway, Asheboro, NC 27205 Randolph County 800-488-0444 www.nczoo.org
About the Site: In addition to the beautiful and exotic birds in the R.J. Reynolds Forest Aviary, the NC Zoological Park offers opportunities to also discover some of North Carolina’s wild, native bird species as you visit the open spaces of this 1,500-acre complex. Prior to entering the Zoo, check the picnic area adjacent to the North America Plaza entrance. This area has both understory and tree canopy and sits along a lake where waterfowl and wading birds may be seen. On the opposite side of the entrance, the Education Center sits along a creek and offers views of the riparian forest for additional birding opportunities. Enter the Zoo, scan the lake and stream from the bridge for activity, and visit the Cypress Swamp exhibit while checking the trees for songbirds. Continue birding throughout the Zoo for wild birds as they blend into the outdoor exhibits with exotic animals. From the bridge outside the Africa Entrance/ Exit, scan the treetops, lake and riparian forest along the creek for wild birds. Walk down into the picnic area and the amphitheater for closer access to the lake and forest.
© Melissa McGaw
Blue Grosbeak
Species of Interest: Eastern Kingbird, Great Crested Flycatcher, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Eastern Meadowlark, wintering waterfowl, wading birds Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, small wetland communities, lake Access & Parking: The site is open daily from 9am to 5pm from April 1 – October 31 and from 9am to 4pm from November 1 – March 31. The visitor center is open daily from 9am to 4pm. Park admission fees apply to all visiting birders. Birders must stay on marked public trails and access areas, unless prior arrangements have been made. Directions: From the intersection of US 64 and Zoo Parkway (NC 159) in Asheboro, travel south on Zoo Parkway for approximately 4.5 miles. Signs directing you to the Zoo are prominent. Coordinates: N 35° 37’ 49” W 79° 45’ 58” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 37, 59
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2 Uwharrie National Forest – Birkhead Wilderness Area 49
Tot Hill Rd.
Lassiter Mill Rd.
Branch trailhead, continue south on Lassiter Mill Road. This trailhead begins in a forested area of mixed hardwoods and provides a completely different birding experience. Watch and listen for woodland species along the trails leading from this access.
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Species of Interest: Northern Bobwhite, Wild Turkey, Wood Thrush, Indigo Bunting, Blue Grosbeak, woodpeckers
Uwharrie Group
Site Information: Owner: USDA Forest Service Lassiter Mill Road, southwest of Asheboro, NC Randolph County 910-576-6391 www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/recreation/uwharrie
About the Site: With a network of over 9 miles of trails passing through various habitat types, the Birkhead Wilderness offers a wide range of birding opportunities. The Thornburg and Robbins Branch trailheads each offer different habitats. The Thornburg Trail starts at an old farm complete with farmhouse and barns. The former farmland at the parking area is managed for wildlife. It consists of various successional stages of vegetation, as well as mowed areas. This area deserves a close look for grassland and open country birds, including Northern Bobwhite, Wild Turkey and Field Sparrow. Be sure to check the porch of the house and the rafters of the barns for nesting birds and perhaps a Barn Owl. From the parking lot, continue past the farmhouse down the hill, across the creek and through a meadow to access the northern end of the Birkhead Mountain and Robbins Branch Trails. To access the Robbins © Lena Gallitano
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Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, early successional Special Concerns: Hunting is allowed in the Uwharrie National Forest during certain times of the year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Access & Parking: It is strongly recommended that visitors pick up a map of the Wilderness Area at the National Forest headquarters, on NC 24/27 just east of Troy. The Wilderness Area trails are open yearround. Parking for Robbins Branch is 0.6 miles east of Lassiter Mill Road at the end of the dirt access road. Directions: From Asheboro, take NC 49 south for approximately 6 miles. Turn right on Tot Hill Road. Go 0.25 miles farther and at a “T” intersection, turn left (south) on Lassiter Mill Road. The Thornburg trailhead is in approximately 2.5 miles and the Robbins Branch trailhead is in approximately 5 miles on Lassiter Mill Road. Coordinates: N 35° 37’ 05” W 79° 56’ 57” (Thornburg) DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 59
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Troy
3 27
24
Site Information: Owner: USDA Forest Service 789 NC 24/27 East, Troy, NC 27371 Montgomery County 910-576-6391 www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/recreation/uwharrie
a trail map and key to the numbered nature stops. The trail offers two choices, a short 1mile loop and a 2.2-mile loop with an excellent view of Densons Creek. Both loops are well marked with white blazes. The longer loop provides opportunities to enjoy the hilly terrain and the tributaries of the creek. Evidence of Hurricane Fran in 1996 can still be seen. A few of the trees near the creek remain across the trail. These trees can be easily crossed and provide a good opportunity to study the effects of high wind on this bottomland forest. Benches along the trail provide opportunities to relax and listen to the forest sounds. The town of Troy has a nature trail that joins the longer Densons Creek Trail and is marked with orange blazes. Be sure to follow the white blazes back to the trailhead and parking lot.
About the Site: This nature trail offers a pleasant walk through a mixed hardwoods and pine forest. At the information kiosk by the parking lot, pick up
Species of Interest: American Redstart, Prothonotary Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, woodpeckers Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwood/ pine, floodplain forest, creek Special Concern: Hunting is allowed in the Uwharrie National Forest during certain times of the year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Access & Parking: The Densons Creek Trailhead leaves from the National Forest headquarters, and is open year-round. The office is open 8am to 4:30pm. Directions: From the intersection of NC Business 109 and NC 24/27 in Troy, travel east on NC 24/27 for 1.8 miles to the National Forest headquarters.
© Lena Gallitano
Densons Creek Nature Trail
Coordinates: N 35° 21’ 41” W 79° 51’ 48” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 59
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Uwharrie National Forest – Densons Creek Nature Trail
4 Uwharrie National Forest – Uwharrie National Recreational Trail & Dutchman’s Creek Trail burns along the trail, which creates habitat diversity for wildlife. From rolling hills to steep, rough and rocky surfaces, the Uwharrie Trail offers a unique piedmont birding and hiking experience.
River Rd.
4 27
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Species of Interest: Wood Thrush, American Redstart, Prothonotary Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Scarlet Tanager
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Site Information: Owner: USDA Forest Service NC 24/27 west of Troy, NC Montgomery County 910-576-6391 www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/recreation/uwharrie
About the Site: Birding the entire length of the 20.5-mile Uwharrie Trail from start to finish would require careful planning. Fortunately, there are opportunities for access without thru hiking. Starting at the southern end of the trail, birders can choose between the 9.5-mile Dutchman’s Creek Trail or the main Uwharrie Trail. Dutchman’s Creek begins on the right side of the parking lot and intersects with the Uwharrie Trail to form a figure eight route that returns to the parking lot. Other parking access points on the Uwharrie Trail are at NC 109 and Flint Hill Road (the northern terminus). The trail offers a variety of habitats from open fields to high rocky ridges of pine and hardwoods where Wild Turkey, raptors and songbirds might be spotted. Creeks offer additional habitats for woodland bird species. In this managed forest, you may notice signs of thinning and prescribed
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Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwood/ pine, mesic forest, creek Special Concern: Hunting is allowed in the Uwharrie National Forest during certain times of the year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Detailed trail maps should be purchased at the Forest Service headquarters prior to hiking this trail. Access & Parking: The Uwharrie and Dutchman’s Creek Trails are open yearround. Parking is available at each of the trailheads. Directions: From Troy, take NC 24/27 west for 9.5 miles. The southern trailhead for both the Uwharrie Trail and the Dutchman’s Creek Trail are on the right, at Wood Run Camp. There is another parking and access area at a crossing on NC 109, approximately 1.5 miles south of Uwharrie. The northern trail terminus is approximately 1.5 miles east of Ophir, on Flint Hill Road (SR 1306). Coordinates: N 35°18’ 46” W 80° 02’ 56” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 59
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker © Jeff Lewis
5 Uwharrie National Forest – Badin Lake Recreation Area Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Eastern Kingbird, Hooded Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, wintering waterfowl, migrating songbirds
Badin Lake
5 109
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwood/ pine, early successional, lake
Badin
Site Information: Owner: USDA Forest Service Shore of Badin Lake, west of Troy, NC Montgomery County 910-576-6391 www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/recreation/uwharrie
About the Site: Part of the Uwharrie National Forest, Badin Lake Recreation Area provides recreational activities to meet many needs. For birding, the single-use Badin Lake Trail can be accessed from several campgrounds, as well as the King’s Mountain Point day use area. King’s Mountain Point also provides a paved path with viewing platforms along the lake where birders can scan for wintering waterfowl. Breeding and migrating songbirds may also be found in this area. The easy 5.6-mile Badin Lake hiking trail is accessible from the King’s Mountain Point parking lot. This trail follows the shoreline and loops back through the forest past the campgrounds and back to the parking lot. Search for shorebirds from the northern most point of the trail along the lakeshore’s shallow edge. When away from the lake, expect to see forest species such as Wood Thrush and woodpeckers. Bald Eagle nests have been found along the shoreline near the Deep Water Trail Camp, in the southern portion of the recreation area that borders the Pee Dee River. The recreation area provides extensive clean, modern facilities for tent and RV camping, which will give birders the opportunity to enjoy nocturnal birds in a beautiful, remote setting.
Special Concerns: Hunting is allowed in the Uwharrie National Forest during certain times of the year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Some trail systems within the recreation area are designated for various uses, from hiking to off-road vehicles, so birders will want to review a map prior to visiting. The Badin Lake Trail is designated for hiking only. Most of the roads in the recreation area are gravel, except for a few miles at the northern entrance. Access & Parking: Parking is available at King’s Mountain Point, Badin Lake Campground and Deep Water Trail Camp. King’s Mountain Point is open only during daylight hours; all sites are open year-round. Trail maps and information should be picked up from the National Forest headquarters, 3 miles east of Troy on NC 24/27. Directions: From Troy, take NC 109 north for approximately 12 miles. Turn west on State Road 1154 to enter the Recreation Area. Coordinates: N 35° 26’ 52” W 80° 04’ 40” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 59
© Lena Gallitano
Badin Lake
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6
© NC State Parks
Morrow Mountain State Park
Morrow Mountain State Park 740
6
Uwharrie Group
Morrow Mountain Rd.
27 24
Site Information: Owner: NC State Parks 49104 Morrow Mountain Road, Albemarle, NC 28001 Stanly County 704-982-4402 www.ncparks.gov
About the Site: Morrow Mountain State Park is comprised of 4,742 acres that include a variety of habitats. Over 30 miles of trails offer outstanding birding opportunities. Spring migration is an excellent time to view warblers. The Fall Mountain Trail offers great opportunities to see Prothonotary Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Northern Parula, and Louisiana Waterthrush during the spring migration and summer months. During the winter, the Fall Mountain Trail offers the park’s best opportunity to see Bald Eagle, Winter Wren, and waterfowl. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Golden-crowned and Ruby-crowned Kinglets, and Yellow-rumped Warbler are easily observed in many areas of the park in winter months. Sugarloaf Mountain Trail, Hattaway Mountain Trail
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and the Morrow Mountain Trail offer excellent opportunities to see and hear forest birds including Great Crested Flycatcher, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Pileated Woodpecker, Hooded Warbler, and Black-and-white Warbler. Bald Eagle have nested in the park since 1997. The park’s boatramp offers birders an opportunity to launch canoes, kayaks or motorboats. Bald Eagle, Osprey, and waterfowl are most easily seen by boat, but can also be observed from the shoreline. Chuck-will’s-widow and Whippoor-will can be heard during spring and early summer in many areas at night, sometimes simultaneously. Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Great Crested Flycatcher, Prothonotary Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, mesic forest, floodplain forest Access & Parking: The park is open from 8am to 6pm, November – February; 8am to 7pm, March and October; 8am to 8pm, April, May and September; 8am to 9pm, June – August. The visitor center is open 8am to 5pm, weekdays; hours vary on weekends. Directions: In Albemarle, take NC 24/27 east to the intersection of NC 740. Go north on NC 740 for approximately 3 miles. Turn right on Morrow Mountain Road. Follow this road for approximately 3 miles to the park entrance. Coordinates: N 35° 22’ 24” W 80° 04’ 23” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 59
© Lena Gallitan
o
Uwharrie Group
Bathroom break
While You’re In the Area HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trail: Potters’ Wheels & Organic Fields www.homegrownhandmade.com North Carolina Pottery Center 233 East Avenue Seagrove, NC 27341 336-873-8430 www.ncpotterycenter.com Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site 9621 Reed Mine Road Stanfield, NC 28163 704-721- 4653 www.ah.dcr.state.nc.us/sections/hs/reed/reed.htm
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© Chris Moorm
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Welcome to the
Pee Dee Group
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You Are Here
insight into this fascinating era. The area also hosts the only North Carolina national wildlife refuge outside of the coastal plain, which provides an expansive, varied habitat for the local wildlife. The Pee Dee area provides great opportunities for birding and exploration along with ample travel amenities.
Pee Dee Group
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lowing across the southern piedmont, the Pee Dee River is formed from the merger of the Yadkin and Uwharrie Rivers. The river fills Blewett Falls Lake, the last of six manmade lakes in the river basin, as it continues toward the Atlantic Ocean. Historically, the Pee Dee Indian culture flourished in the area, and Town Creek Indian Mound provides
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Candor Lake Tillery
Red Cross 138
Norwood
Oakboro
Mount Gilead
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Norman 73 220 742
Ansonville 52 109
Ellerbee
2 Blewett Falls Lake
Polkton Peachland
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Wadesboro
Lilesville 5 Rockingham
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74
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Hamlet
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Morven 177
1 52
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McFarlan 0
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S O U T H
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C A R O L I N A You Are Here
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Raleigh 95
Pee Dee Group 1
High Ridge Gardens
2
Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge
3
Town Creek Indian Mound State Historic Site
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4
Pee Dee River Game Land – Blewett Falls
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Hinson Lake
1 High Ridge Gardens Peachland 74
Landsford Rd. Gilboa Rd. Horn Store Rd.
1
Site Information: Owner: Mary Erickson and John Edmondson 226-326 Rocky Valley Road, Peachland, NC 28133 Anson County 704-219-0391 www.highridgegardens.org
About the Site: Tucked away in the southern piedmont, High Ridge Gardens provides an opportunity to bird and enjoy the tranquility of rural North Carolina. The property’s 38 acres was previously a horse farm, but is now a guest house with an artist studio, woodlands and former pastures that are now being managed as a conservation area with nature trails. With rolling hills of mixed pine and hardwoods and former pastureland, the property also contains several farm ponds and a seasonal wetland. From the parking area by the guest house, go down the hill and through the gate to access the marked trails. Check the small pond on the right for wading birds. Continue to the loop trail on the left just before the art studio to access a hillside of mixed hardwoods and pine. The top of the hill is a good spot to stop and listen for songbirds. From the entrance, continue straight ahead and follow the marked trails to another farm pond, a seasonal wetland and open pastureland that also contains managed conservation areas. Returning to the parking area, summer birders should check the hummingbird feeders at the guest house for activity.
© Mary Erickson
Morning at High Ridge Gardens
Species of Interest: Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Summer Tanager, migrating songbirds, wading birds Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, dry coniferous woodlands, small wetland communities Special Feature: The on-site artist studio is open by appointment. The guesthouse is available for overnight or extended rental. Access & Parking: Park at the circle by the guest house and walk down the hill to access the trails. The site is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From the intersection of NC 74 & 205 in Marshville, travel east 1 block and turn south on White Street. This becomes Landsford Road. Follow Landsford Road for 3.1 miles, until it intersects with Gilboa Road. Turn left on Gilboa Road and travel 2.7 miles to the stop sign. Turn right on Horne Store Road, which immediately turns into High Ridge Church Road. In 0.4 miles, turn left on Rock Valley Road, and turn right at the 3rd driveway. Coordinates: N 34° 56’ 02” W 80° 18’ 29” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 70
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High Ridge Church Rd.
2 Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge Ansonville
52 109
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Pee Dee Group
Site Information: Owner: US Fish & Wildlife Service 5770 NC 52 North, Wadesboro, NC 28170 Anson, Richmond Counties 704-694-4424 www.fws.gov/peedee
About the Site: With over 8,400 acres of agricultural fields, pine, hardwood and bottomland forests, the Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge provides a variety of habitats for both resident and migratory birds. Located along the floodplain of the Pee Dee River, the Refuge provides both a stop over and breeding habitat for neotropical migrants and is a winter home to thousands of waterfowl. The main entrance kiosk provides a map and information to explore the numerous roads and trails that provide access. Continuing past the kiosk, check the native warm season restoration area for Northern Bobwhite and other open country species. Stop at Sul-
livan Pond to enjoy the convergence of five habitat types that support various birds. Check the seasonal wetland from the observation blind and hike the trail that leads from this area. Explore the largest contiguous bottomland hardwood forest in central North Carolina. This Natural Heritage Site is located along Brown Creek, where birding is easy from the road. Several other ponds in the Refuge provide habitat for wading birds and waterfowl. In the winter, managed waterfowl impoundments may be closed to visitors, although group tours can be arranged through the Refuge office. With over 180 species documented, including 92 potential breeding species, Pee Dee offers good birding opportunities year round. Species of Interest: Northern Bobwhite, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Hooded Warbler, Indigo Bunting, wintering waterfowl, migrating songbirds Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, early successional, floodplain forest, lake Special Concern: Hunting is allowed on Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge during certain times of the year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. Access & Parking: The site is open daily, from 1 hour prior to sunrise until 1 hour after sunset. The refuge headquarters is open 8am to 4:30pm, Monday – Friday. Directions: The Refuge entrance is on NC 52, between Ansonville and Wadesboro. From the intersection of NC 74 and NC 52 in Wadesboro, travel 5.8 miles north on NC 52 to the Refuge entrance. Coordinates: N 35° 03’ 27” W 80° 05’ 37” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 71
© Lena Gallitano
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Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge
3 Town Creek Indian Mound State Historic Site Mount Gilead
731
3 109 Town Creek Mound Rd.
Site Information: Owner: NC Department of Cultural Resources 509 Town Creek Mound Road, Mt. Gilead, NC 27306 Montgomery County 910-439-6802 www.towncreek.nchistoricsites.org
About the Site: As North Carolina’s oldest historic site, Town Creek Indian Mound offers the visitor an opportunity to combine birding and cultural heritage. Before leaving the visitor center, check the site map to locate the 0.25-mile long nature trail. The area between the visitor center and the ceremonial center restoration site is being managed as a Piedmont prairie. Information on the project is located by the visitor center. Check this area for sparrows and other grassland species. After crossing the prairie, continue through the entrance to the restoration site; the nature trail starts on the far side. This path follows the bank of the Little River for a short distance to a bluff with a river overlook and a small informational kiosk. In the summer, listen for Acadian Flycatcher and Yellow-billed Cuckoo. The nature trail loops around the perimeter of the restoration site and returns to the visitor center through a mixed hardwood/pine forest.
© Michael McCloy
Grasshopper Sparrow
Species of Interest: Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Eastern Kingbird, Acadian Flycatcher, American Redstart, Prothonotary Warbler, Indigo Bunting Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, early successional, small wetland communities Special Feature: The Town Creek visitor center offers a short movie and a collection of American Indian artifacts that reflect the Pee Dee culture that was active from A.D. 1000-1400. Access & Parking: The site is open 10am to 4pm, Tuesday – Saturday; 1pm to 4pm, Sunday. Directions: From the intersection of NC 73 and 731 in Mt Gilead, take NC 731 east for 4 miles. Turn right on Town Creek Mound Road. The site is 1.1 miles on the left. Coordinates: N 35° 11’ 05” W 79° 55’ 54” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 59
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4 Pee Dee River Game Land – Blewett Falls line right-of-ways can be seen from this area and should be checked for perched raptors and possibly Black and Turkey Vultures.
4 Blewett Falls Rd. Old Charlotte Hwy.
74
Pee Dee Group
Site Information: Contacts: Progress Energy (owner); NC Wildlife Resources Commission (manager) Blewett Falls Road, west of Rockingham, NC Richmond County 919-707-0050 www.ncwildlife.org
About the Site: Wild Turkey walking along the road leading to Blewett Falls Dam may be the first clue that this site offers a unique birding opportunity. Park in the circle at the end of the road for access to the dam, where Bald Eagle and Osprey routinely hunt and gulls, terns and waterfowl may be seen in winter. The Wildlife Resources Commission boat access road just before the circle provides access to the river below the dam. The road passes through a young forest for a short distance before coming to the river’s edge. The boat access area provides an excellent view of the river, which has exposed rocks and mudflats during low water conditions, providing a good habitat for shorebirds during migration. Wading birds can be numerous in this area. Continue on foot beyond the boat access using the road through the bottomland hardwood forest for another view of the river further downstream. Check for migrating and resident warblers and other songbirds along the road. Two power
156
Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, American Redstart, Prothonotary Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, Blue Grosbeak, wintering waterfowl Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, mesic forest, lake and river Special Concerns: Hunting is allowed on Pee Dee River Game Land during certain times of the year. Birders should be aware of current hunting regulations and seasons, and take adequate safety precautions during those times. For more on hunting precautions, see the hunting season information at the beginning of this guide. The shoreline at the dam is steep and careful footing is required. The dam may allow changing water flows in the river without warning. Access & Parking: Parking is available in the circle at the end of the dead-end road, from which you can walk up on top of the dam and view the lake. A few hundred feet back on Blewett Falls Road, there will be a sign for the NC Wildlife Boating Access. Follow the dirt road for a few hundred yards to access the Pee Dee River, below the dam. The site is open daily during daylight hours. Directions: From the intersection of NC 220 and US 74 Business in Rockingham, take US 74 Business west for approximately 3.1 miles. Turn right on Old Charlotte Highway. Travel north on Old Charlotte Highway for 0.9 miles and turn right on Blewett Falls Road. Continue on Blewett Falls Road for 4.7 miles to Blewett Falls Dam. Coordinates: N 34° 59’ 27” W 79° 52’ 36” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 71
© Jeff Lemons
Red-winged Blackbird
5
© Brady Beck
Hinson Lake
74
220 1 Long Dr.
74
5
Washington St.
Rockingham
Site Information: Contacts: City of Rockingham (on-site manager); NC Wildlife Resources Commission (owner) Hinson Lake Road, Rockingham, NC Richmond County 910-895-6810 www.gorockingham.com/hinsonlake.htm, www.ncwildlife.org
About the Site: Hinson Lake is a 300-acre Wildlife Conservation Area that is jointly managed by the City of Rockingham and the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. This site has approximately 2.5 miles of hiking trails that circle the lake and branch into the uplands. Interpretive signs are placed at strategic locations along the trail to help educate visitors about wildlife and habitat. Key habitats include a beaver pond, open water, marsh, mesic forest, mature upland
hardwood/pine forest, longleaf pine, and a native warm season grass meadow. Waterfowl are most abundant in the winter, and a high diversity of water and songbirds can be seen during migration. Docks and a boat ramp are available for launching non-motorized boats. A fishing pier is available and the lake is occasionally stocked with catfish. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks and fishing equipment but should call ahead for hours of operation. Species of Interest: Canvasback, American Kestrel, Red-headed Woodpecker, Brownheaded Nuthatch, Prothonotary Warbler Habitats: lake, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, dry longleaf pine, early successional Access & Parking: The site is open daily during daylight hours. Parking is available near the building at the end of the entrance road. Directions: From US 1, about 1 mile north of downtown Rockingham, turn east on Long Drive. At the next stop light, turn left on Washington Street. The entrance to Hinson Lake is approximately 200 yards on the right. Follow the dirt road 0.5 miles to the parking area. Coordinates: N 34° 56’ 20” W 79º 45’ 01” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 72
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Pee Dee Group
Hinson Lake
© Mary Eri
ckson
Dogwoods in bloom
While You’re In the Area Pee Dee Group
HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trails: Burning Rubber and Riding the Rails; Scenes of the Sandhills www.homegrownhandmade.com National Railroad Museum and Hall of Fame 23 Hamlet Avenue Hamlet, NC 28345 910-582-2383 http://nationalrrmuseum.tripod.com/ The Rankin Museum of American and Natural History 131 W. Church Street Ellerbe, NC 28338 910-652-6378 www.rankinmuseum.com/ Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site 9621 Reed Mine Road Stanfield, NC 28163 704-721-4653 www.ah.dcr.state.nc.us/sections/hs/reed/reed.htm
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Welcome to the
Greater Charlotte East Group
77
You Are Here
of the natural areas in a 14-county region surrounding Charlotte, and promotes awareness and support for the local areas that make this region such a distinctive natural and cultural setting. Come explore the natural areas of the southwestern piedmont and find out for yourself what makes the Greater Charlotte East Group so diverse.
Raleigh 95
Greater Charlotte East Group
W
ithin the urban setting surrounding the largest city in North Carolina lies a rich mixture of unique habitats and wildlife. A wealth of land has been protected through private and public conservation ownership and more than 300 bird species have been documented in the region. The Central Carolinas Biodiversity Trail highlights many
© Jeff Marcus
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Concord 1 49
2
Harrisburg Mount Holly
16
200
27
3
29
Belmont
85
Midland
277
Locust
24
Stanfield
Charlotte
51
4
601
Mint Hill 160
77
5
Fairview 74 218
Matthews
49
6 485 521
Hemby Bridge Stallings Lake Park Indian Trail
Unionville 200
205
Weddington Marvin
84
16
S O U T H C A R O L I N A
Wesley Chapel
Monroe
Marshville Mineral Waxhaw Springs
75
207 0
Wingate 74
601
5 Miles
200
522
7 77
You Are Here
Raleigh 95
Greater Charlotte East Group 1
Frank Liske Park
2
Mallard and Clark’s Creek Greenway
3 4
160
5
McAlpine Creek and Campbell Creek Greenways
Reedy Creek Nature Preserve
6
Lower McAlpine and McMullen Creek Greenway
Freedom Park and Charlotte Nature Museum
7
Cane Creek Park
1
© Chuck Carmack
Frank Liske Park Concord 1
Stough Rd.
49 29
Harrisburg 485
Site Information: Owner: Cabarrus County Parks and Recreation Department 4001 Stough Road, Concord, NC 28025 Cabarrus County 704-920-2700 www.co.cabarrus.nc.us/parks
About the Site: This small park, nestled within a rapidly developing urban landscape, holds a surprising diversity of birds. Great Horned Owl roost in the planted pine forest near the playground overlooking Lowes Motor Speedway. Loggerhead Shrike can be seen perched atop poles or small trees near thorny honey locust saplings (available for impaling prey). A variety of mi-
grating, breeding and wintering songbirds can be found along the 1-mile nature trail. In the winter, the waterfowl on the 10-acre lake can include Canvasback and Ruddy Duck. Search for a variety of sparrows along the trails; watch for White-crowned and Fox Sparrows, in particular, in the winter. Also, Horned Larks have been occasionally found in the dirt patches between the athletic fields of the soccer complex. Species of Interest: Great Horned Owl, Loggerhead Shrike, Horned Lark, wintering waterfowl Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, early successional, lake Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 10pm, April – October. Hours vary in winter. Directions: From I-485, take Exit 36. Travel east on NC 49 for approximately 7 miles. Turn left on Stough Road. The park entrance is 1.5 miles on the right. Coordinates: N 35° 21’ 47” W 80° 37’ 21” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 57,58
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Greater Charlotte East Group
Red-breasted Merganser
2 Mallard and Clark’s Creek Greenway 29 85
2 Mallard Creek Rd. W.T. Harris Blvd.
485 29
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Greater Charlotte East Group
Site Information: Owner: Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department 9801 Mallard Creek Road, Charlotte, NC 28262 Mecklenburg County 704-336-8867 www.parkandrec.com
About the Site: This 6-mile greenway trail system has 4.5 miles of paved surface, providing an enjoyable avenue for exploring the bird life along Mallard and Clark’s creeks. The trail winds through early successional fields full of birds and butterflies, dense floodplain forest, and a meandering, canopied creek corridor. Early morning visits to the greenway are particularly rewarding. Careful observers can often build a species list very quickly, especially during the spring migration. At this time of year, listen and watch for Northern Parula, Blue-winged, Canada, Bay-breasted, Hooded, Black-throated Blue, and Black-throated Green Warbler. During the winter, birders should watch for mixed flocks of resident songbirds and woodpeckers foraging for insects, seeds and fruit along the edges of the forests. Barred Owl can be encountered here any time of the year. Species of Interest: Acadian Flycatcher, Blue-winged Warbler, Canada Warbler, Baybreasted Warbler, Hooded Warbler
© Jeff Lemons
Gray Catbird
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwood/ pine, floodplain forest, early successional, creek Access & Parking: Parking is available at Mallard Creek Elementary School in the lots closest to the street. The Clarks’ Creek Greenway connects to the Mallard Creek Greenway south of the parking area access. Both greenways are open daily, 7am to sunset. Call 704-598-8857 to inquire about bird programs and guided nature tours. Directions: From I-85, take Exit 45 (W.T. Harris Boulevard). Take W.T. Harris Boulevard west to Mallard Creek Road. Turn right on Mallard Creek Road and follow it to Mallard Creek Elementary School, on the left. Another parking area is located at the UNCC soccer fields, near the intersection of Mallard Creek Church Road and north Tryon Street, 1 mile east of I-85. Coordinates: N 35° 20’ 05” W 80° 46’ 24” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 57
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3 Reedy Creek Nature Preserve 29
Species of Interest: Broad-winged Hawk, Red-eyed Vireo, Wood Thrush, Kentucky Warbler, migrating warblers W.T. Harris Blvd.
Charlotte 29
3
485
Rocky River Rd.
Site Information: Owner: Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department 2900 Rocky River Road, Charlotte, NC 28215 Mecklenburg County 704-598-8857 www.parkandrec.com
About the Site: This 735-acre nature preserve protects the major tributaries of Reedy Creek, and the entire preserve has been designated a significant Mecklenburg County natural heritage site. Protected habitats include moist forest patches dominated by umbrella magnolia trees, expanses of oak-hickory forest and mixed pine-hardwood forest on upland sites, as well as streamside and lakeside areas. Plan to take some time to explore the 10 miles of trails that wind throughout this preserve. Over 125 bird species have been documented here, including 30 species of vireos and warblers, 9 species of sparrows, and 12 species of raptors (including several conspicuous pairs of resident Barred Owl). Wild Turkey has recently been added to the preserve’s checklist. Birders could easily spend an entire day exploring the trails, stopping at the nature center, and picnicing in the adjacent park. Other wildlife that can be encountered include box turtle, river otter, beaver, white-tailed deer and numerous dragonfly and butterfly species.
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, early successional, creek Access & Parking: For best access to the nature preserve, follow the main park road to a “T”-intersection and stop sign. Turn right and proceed to the nature center parking lot. The preserve is open daily, 7am to sunset. The nature center is open 9am to 5pm, Monday – Saturday; 1pm to 5pm on Sunday. Call 704-598-8857 to inquire about bird programs and guided nature tours. Directions: From I-85, take Exit 45A. Travel east on W.T. Harris Boulevard to the 4th stoplight and turn left on Rocky River Road. Travel east on Rocky River Road for approximately 0.5 miles. Turn left at the stoplight, and then just past the fire station, turn right into Reedy Creek Park and Nature Preserve. Coordinates: N 35° 15’ 44” W 80° 43’ 12” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 57
© Jeff Lemons
Wood Thrush
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Greater Charlotte East Group
85
4 Freedom Park and Charlotte Nature Museum Species of Interest: Belted Kingfisher, Cooper’s Hawk, Barred Owl, Great Crested Flycatcher
4 77
74 Park Rd.
Woodlawn Rd.
16 Monroe Rd./ John St.
5
Greater Charlotte East Group
Site Information: Owner: Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department 1900 East Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28209 Mecklenburg County 704-353-1236 (for birding info., call 704-432-4531) www.parkandrec.com
About the Site: Freedom Park is one of Charlotte’s oldest and most popular parks. It provides several interesting and enjoyable birding opportunities. Two main options exist for birders: walking the Little Sugar Creek Greenway Trail or scouring the park and its assorted forest, streamside and field habitats. For the greenway, start at the Nature Museum and walk the forested greenway trail north or south. To the north, the trail leads along the eastern boundary of the park through the Liz Hair Nature Walk and beyond. To the south, the greenway trail leads through a variety of forest and open areas in one of Charlotte’s historic neighborhoods. These are leisurely walks over easy terrain. Old willow oaks provide a canopy for shade and cover for songbirds. The creek and pond provide watering sites for all birds and habitat for Belted Kingfisher, Great Blue Heron, ducks and at times, a shorebird or two. Cooper’s Hawk dive on unsuspecting songbirds and Barred Owl roost in the trees. If you choose to scour the park’s natural areas instead of walking the greenway, you may encounter vireos, flycatchers, woodpeckers and warblers.
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Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, early successional, creek Special Feature: Watch for Gulf Coast Spiny Softshell turtles in Little Sugar Creek. This turtle is relatively common here, but is a designated North Carolina species of special concern. They look like a flat, floating pancake with a long head and nose. Access & Parking: The park is open daily, 7am to sunset. The museum hours vary; call 704-372-6261 to check. Call 704-598-8857 to inquire about bird programs and guided nature tours. Directions: From I-77, take Exit 6A. Bear right on Woodlawn Road and travel east for 2 miles. Turn left on Park Road. Travel north for 1 mile and turn right on Princeton Avenue. Continue for 0.5 miles and turn left onto Sterling Road. The Charlotte Nature Museum entrance is on the left. Freedom Park is accessed by crossing the bridge behind the Museum. Coordinates: N 35° 11’ 33” W 80° 50’ 33” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 57
© Frank Ripp
Eastern Towhee
5 McAlpine Creek and Campbell Creek Greenways 4 77
74 Park Rd.
Woodlawn Rd.
16 Monroe Rd./ John St.
5
wetland edges. In addition to birds, mammals like mink, muskrat, beaver and river otter have been found. McAlpine Park’s wetland was the first site in the county where green treefrog and squirrel treefrog were documented. On summer afternoons when the birding slows, birders can focus on watching butterflies until the evening bird activity resumes. Species of Interest: Swainson’s Warbler, Lincoln’s Sparrow, wintering waterfowl
About the Site: These greenway trails and their surrounding habitat have been favorite birding locations of Charlotte area birders for almost 25 years. Almost 200 bird species have been formally documented breeding, wintering or migrating along the 4 miles of greenway trail and within the adjacent 462-acre park. It seems that every year a new or exciting species is found. On a good day during spring migration, more than 100 species can be tallied in this vital urban bird oasis. In the winter, the small 3-acre pond and adjacent wetland often harbor a diversity of waterfowl. Sparrows abound around the
© Jeff Lemons
Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, small wetland communities, floodplain forest, early successional, creek Access & Parking: Parking for the McAlpine Creek Greenway is at McAlpine Creek Community Park. Access to the greenway is available through two trails at either end of the main soccer field. Parking for the Campbell Creek Greenway is in a gravel lot located off Margaret Wallace Road. Both greenways are open daily, 7am to sunset. Call 704-598-8857 to inquire about bird programs and guided nature tours. Directions: McAlpine Creek and Campbell Creek Greenways connect near their confluence at Independence Blvd. (U.S. 74). Primary access for McAlpine Creek Greenway is at McAlpine Creek Community Park. To get there, take Exit 52 off of I-485. Travel east on John Street, which becomes Monroe Road, for approximately 4 miles. The McAlpine Creek Park entrance is on the right. To access Campbell Creek Greenway, take Exit 51 off of I-485, for US 74 (Independence Boulevard) West. Follow Independence Boulevard for about 5 miles. Turn right on Margaret Wallace Road. Follow Margaret Wallace Road approximately 300 yards; the entrance to Campbell Creek Greenway is on the right, across the street from a fire station. Coordinates: N 35° 09’ 02” W 80° 44’ 40” (McAlpine Creek Park) DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 57
Scarlet Tanager
165
Greater Charlotte East Group
Site Information: Owner: Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department 8711 Monroe Road, Charlotte, NC 28212 Mecklenburg County 704-568-4044 www.parkandrec.com
6
© Jeff Lewis
Green Heron
Lower McAlpine and McMullen Creek Greenway
6
51 84
UT
SO 485
H RO CA
521
A
LIN
Greater Charlotte East Group
PinevilleMatthews Rd.
Site Information: Owner: Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department Pineville-Matthews Road, Charlotte, NC 28270 Mecklenburg County 704-643-5725 www.parkandrec.com
About the Site: This 4-mile trail winds along both McAlpine and McMullen creeks in south Charlotte. The trail and boardwalks provide excellent access to a floodplain forest that is teaming with all sorts of wildlife, especially birds. This is one of the few remaining floodplain forests of significant size in this rapidly growing urban area. Birders can find cavity-nesting species like Wood Duck, Great Crested Flycatcher and Prothonotary
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Warbler; colonial nesting waterbirds like Great Blue and Green Heron; and assorted forest birds like Acadian Flycatcher, Scarlet Tanager and Yellow-billed Cuckoo. This is an excellent area to visit during both spring and fall migration with more than 30 species of vireos and warblers having been documented along the trail, as well as 7 woodpecker species, 3 nuthatch species and 6 thrushes. Species of Interest: Wood Duck, Yellowbilled Cuckoo, Acadian Flycatcher, Prothonotary Warbler, Scarlet Tanager Habitats: oak forest & mixed hardwoods/ pine, floodplain forest, early successional, creek Access & Parking: Both greenways are open daily, 7am to sunset. Call 704-598-8857 to inquire about bird programs and guided nature tours. Directions: From I-485, take Exit 64A. Travel east on NC 51 (Pineville-Matthews Road) for 1.5 miles. A gravel parking lot is located on the right. The parking lot is directly across from the McMullen Creek Market. Coordinates: N 35° 05’ 14” W 80° 51’ 25” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 80
7 Cane Creek Park
200
Potter Rd.
Harkey Rd.
Site Information: Owner: Union County Parks and Recreation Department 5213 Harkey Road, Waxhaw, NC 28173 Union County 704-843-3919 www.co.union.nc.us/gov_offices/parks/ parks.htm
About the Site: This 1050-acre park provides good general birding year round, but it can be especially productive during the spring when migrating warblers are abundant. For best success, search the habitat edges between the forest and fields or grassy areas. In the winter, there can be a diversity of waterfowl and gulls present on the lake. Mixed winter flocks of woodpeckers and songbirds forage along the forest edge. Recommended spots to set up your spotting scope include the dam, the shoreline near the gazebo, the end of McCain Mill Road or the camping area on the south side of the lake. Search for wintering sparrows, including Fox Sparrow, in scrub areas. As you bird, watch for the occasional Bald Eagle passing overhead. The Piedmont Prairie restoration site, located near the lake just south of the dam, provides a good birding location for field, forest and lake habitats. This site protects a transplanted population of the federally endangered Schweinitz’s sunflower.
© Jeff Lemons
Cape May Warbler
Species of Interest: Bald Eagle, Fox Sparrow, wintering waterfowl Habitats: dry coniferous woodlands, oak forest & mixed hardwoods/pine, early successional, lake Access & Parking: The park is open 8am to 5pm, with extended summer hours. Call ahead for seasonal variations. There is a $3/vehicle entrance fee. Directions: From US 74 near Monroe, take NC 200 south. Travel approximately 11 miles and turn left on Potter Road. Travel approximately 2.5 miles and turn right on Harkey Road. Continue approximately 1.4 miles. The park entrance is on the left. Coordinates: N 34° 50’ 31” W 80° 41’ 02” DeLorme (NC Gazetteer) Page: 80
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Greater Charlotte East Group
7
522
© Chuck Carma
ck
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Greater Charlotte East Group
While You’re In the Area Central Carolinas Biodiversity Trail Discover Natural Treasures of the Charlotte Region www.parkandrec.com HomegrownHandmade Art Road and Farm Trails of North Carolina Local Trail: Burning Rubber and Riding the Rails www.homegrownhandmade.com President James K. Polk State Historic Site 12031 Lancaster Highway Pineville, NC 28134 704-889-7145 www.polk.nchistoricsites.org
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Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site 9621 Reed Mine Road Stanfield, NC 28163 704-721-4653 www.ah.dcr.state.nc.us/sections/hs/reed/reed. htm Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary 248 Ridgewood Avenue Charlotte, NC 28209 704-331-0664 www.winghavengardens.com
© Chris Moorman
Greater Charlotte East Group
Common Yellowthroat
© Chuck Carma
ck
Snowy Egret
© Chuck Carmack
Red-headed Woodpecker
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Northeast Piedmont
rd in g N C1 N Vi C ew W i l in dl g ife G H ui un de tin 2 g Pa dd le Tr ai Bo l at A cc es Fe s e
Site Number and Name
Bi
Group 1
Vance Game Land- Crooked Run Wildlife Management Area
•
2
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Nutbush
•
3
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Hibernia
•
4
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Henderson Point
•
5
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Satterwhite Point
•
6
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Bullocksville
•
7
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - County Line
•
8
Kerr Lake State Recreation Area - Kimball Point
9
Newell Farms
• •
Medoc Mountain State Park
11
Franklin County Nature Preserve
CaswellPerson
1
Caswell Game Land
2
Mayo Park
Falls Lake
1
Falls Lake Trail
2
Blue Jay Point County Park
3
Falls Lake State Recreation Area - Holly Point/Shinleaf
•
•
4
Falls Lake State Recreation Area - Woodpecker Ridge
•
•
5
Falls Lake State Recreation Area - Beaverdam Reservoir
•
•
•
6
Falls Lake State Recreation Area - Sandling Beach
•
•
•
7
Falls Lake State Recreation Area - Rollingview
•
•
1
Hill Forest
2
Little River Regional Park
3
Eno River State Park
4
Indian Trail Park and W. Ellerbe Creek Trail
5
Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area
•3
6
Johnston Mill Nature Preserve
•3
7
Duke Forest
•
•
8
Mason Farm Biological Reserve
•
•
3
Site Index
10
OrangeDurham
Greater Raleigh
170
•
•
•
•
•
• •
•
•
1
Durant Nature Park
•
•
2
William B. Umstead State Park
•
•
3
Lake Crabtree County Park
4
Schenck Forest
5
Prairie Ridge Ecostation for Wildlife and Learning
6
Anderson Point Park
7
Clemmons Educational State Forest
8
Lake Benson Park
3
•
•3
•3
9
Lake Johnson
10
Historic Yates Mill County Park
11
Lake Wheeler
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
•3
•
Jordan Lake
LeeHarnett
Sandhills
Rockingham County
Central Piedmont
Northwest Piedmont
rd in g N C1 N Vi C ew W in ildl g ife G H ui un de tin 2 g Pa dd le Tr ai Bo l at A cc es Fe s e
12
Swift Creek Bluffs
•
13
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
•
14
Harris Lake County Park
1
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - Ebenezer Church
•
•
•
2
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - New Hope
•
•
•
3
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - Seaforth
•
•
•
4
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - Parkers Creek
•
•
•
•
•
5
Jordan Lake Educational State Forest
6
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area - Vista Point
•
7
White Pines Nature Preserve
•3
1
Dunn-Erwin Trail
2
Raven Rock State Park
3
San-Lee Environmental Education and Recreation Park
1
Cape Fear Botanical Garden
2
J. Bayard Clark Park
3
Cape Fear River Trail
4
Carvers Creek State Park
5
Raft Swamp Farms
•3
•
•
•
•
•
•
6
All American Trail
•
7
Calloway Forest
•
8
Lumber River State Park
9
Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve
•
•
•
10
Sandhills Game Land
•3
•
1
Lake Reidsville Recreation Park
2
Chinqua Penn Walking Trail
•
• •
3
Dan River
1
Cedarock Park
2
Haw River Trail
3
Haw River State Park
4
Bog Garden
5
Guilford Courthouse National Military Park
6
Bur-Mil Park
7
Piedmont Environmental Center of High Point
•3
1
Salem Lake, Greenway and Civitan Park
•
2
Miller Park
3
Reynolda Gardens
Site Index
Greater Raleigh (cont.)
Site Number and Name
Bi
Group
•
•
•
•3 •
•3
•
•3
4
Historic Bethabara Park
5
Tanglewood Park & Arboretum
6
Pilot Mountain State Park
•
7
Hanging Rock State Park
•
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
•3
171
High Rock
Uwharrie
Pee-Dee
Site Index
Greater Charlotte
1
Boone’s Cave Park
2
Catawba College Ecological Preserve
3
Dan Nicholas Park
4
Dunn’s Mountain History and Nature Preserve
5
Eagle Point Nature Preserve
6
Alcoa Game Land - Newsom Road Access
1
North Carolina Zoological Park
rd in g N C1 N C Vi W ew i in ldl g ife G H ui un de tin 2 g Pa dd le Tr ai Bo l at A cc es Fe s e
Site Number and Name
Bi
Group
• •
2
Uwharrie National Forest - Birkhead Mountain Wilderness
•
3
Uwharrie National Forest - Densons Creek Nature Trail
•
•
4
Uwharrie National Forest - Uwharrie Trail
•
•
5
Uwharrie National Forest - Badin Lake Recreation Area
•
•
6
Morrow Mountain State Park
1
High Ridge Gardens
2
Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge
3
Town Creek Indian Mound
4
Pee Dee River Game Land - Blewett Falls
5
Hinson Lake
1
Frank Liske Park
2
Mallard Creek and Clark’s Creek Greenways
3
Reedy Creek Nature Preserve
4
Freedom Park and Charlotte Nature Museum
5
McAlpine Creek and Campbell Creek Greenways
6
Lower McAlpine and McMullen Creek Greenway
7
Cane Creek Park
•3
•
•
•
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
•
•
•3
•3
Footnotes: 1 Site listed in Birding North Carolina, edited by Mark Johns and Marshall Brooks 2 Site listed in the North Carolina Wildlife Viewing Guide, by Charles E. Roe 3 On-line information only, go to www.carolinabirdclub.org
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•
•
Birding Notes www.ncbirdingtrail.org
173
Birding Notes 174
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
NC Birding Trail NC Wildlife Resources Commission 1722 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1722 (919) 604-5183 www.ncbirdingtrail.org
NC Birding Trail NC Wildlife Resources Commission 1722 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1722 (919) 604-5183 www.ncbirdingtrail.org
NC Birding Trail NC Wildlife Resources Commission 1722 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1722 (919) 604-5183 www.ncbirdingtrail.org
NC Birding Trail NC Wildlife Resources Commission 1722 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1722 (919) 604-5183 www.ncbirdingtrail.org
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
I stopped by because of the North Carolina Birding Trail.
I stopped by because of the North Carolina Birding Trail.
I stopped by because of the North Carolina Birding Trail.
I stopped by because of the North Carolina Birding Trail.
NC Birding Trail NC Wildlife Resources Commission 1722 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1722 (919) 604-5183 www.ncbirdingtrail.org
NC Birding Trail NC Wildlife Resources Commission 1722 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1722 (919) 604-5183 www.ncbirdingtrail.org
NC Birding Trail NC Wildlife Resources Commission 1722 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1722 (919) 604-5183 www.ncbirdingtrail.org
NC Birding Trail NC Wildlife Resources Commission 1722 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699-1722 (919) 604-5183 www.ncbirdingtrail.org
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
I stopped by because of the North Carolina Birding Trail.
I stopped by because of the North Carolina Birding Trail.
I stopped by because of the North Carolina Birding Trail.
I stopped by because of the North Carolina Birding Trail.
Calling Cards
I’m using the North Carolina Birding Trail to locate great birding sites.
I’m using the North Carolina Birding Trail to locate great birding sites.
I’m using the North Carolina Birding Trail to locate great birding sites.
I’m using the North Carolina Birding Trail to locate great birding sites.
Please continue to care for your natural resources and I’ll be back to use the Trail and patronize local businesses.
Please continue to care for your natural resources and I’ll be back to use the Trail and patronize local businesses.
Please continue to care for your natural resources and I’ll be back to use the Trail and patronize local businesses.
Please continue to care for your natural resources and I’ll be back to use the Trail and patronize local businesses.
Please let the NC Birding Trail know you’ve received this card.
Please let the NC Birding Trail know you’ve received this card.
Please let the NC Birding Trail know you’ve received this card.
Please let the NC Birding Trail know you’ve received this card.
I’m using the North Carolina Birding Trail to locate great birding sites.
I’m using the North Carolina Birding Trail to locate great birding sites.
I’m using the North Carolina Birding Trail to locate great birding sites.
I’m using the North Carolina Birding Trail to locate great birding sites.
Please continue to care for your natural resources and I’ll be back to use the Trail and patronize local businesses.
Please continue to care for your natural resources and I’ll be back to use the Trail and patronize local businesses.
Please continue to care for your natural resources and I’ll be back to use the Trail and patronize local businesses.
Please continue to care for your natural resources and I’ll be back to use the Trail and patronize local businesses.
Please let the NC Birding Trail know you’ve received this card.
Please let the NC Birding Trail know you’ve received this card.
Please let the NC Birding Trail know you’ve received this card.
Please let the NC Birding Trail know you’ve received this card.
Overall Site Map
CaswellPerson
Rockingham County Northwest Piedmont Central Piedmont
Northeast Piedmont
OrangeDurham Falls Lake
Greater Raleigh
Jordan Lake
High Rock
Uwharrie
Lee-Harnett
Greater Charlotte East
Sandhills Pee Dee
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20
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80
Kilometers
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Key To Site Amenity Icons
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
