Come join us for a trip to the Big Sandy unit of the Ten-
nessee National Wildlife Refuge as we explore the many
bays and inlets for wintering ducks, geese, loons, and
gulls as well as the surrounding uplands for raptors and
songbirds. An impressive number of rarities have oc-
curred at this location and it can hold staggering numbers
of waterfowl and sparrows in the winter. All seven wood-
pecker species can be found with regularity, and the open
fields can be good for larks, longspurs, and pipits. This
area is also fairly reliable for wintering Golden Eagle and
LeConte’s Sparrow. We will meet at 8:00 am at the Suno-
co Gas Station at the corner of Hwy 69A and Main St. in
the town of Big Sandy. For logistical reasons, carpooling
is highly encouraged to maximize everyone’s chances for
seeing all the birds. For those wishing to carpool from
Nashville, meet at the Bellevue Park-and-Ride and leave
no later than 6:15 am. The outing should last through mid-
afternoon with a lunch stop back in Big Sandy as we trav-
el from Pace Point over to Britton Ford. Please dress for
the weather as it can be windy along the water. (Contact
information: ms722@bellsouth.net. Please include “NTOS
Field Trip” in the subject line.)
This event has passed.
