The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail “Birding the Alabama Gulf Coast can be a fantastic experience! This is particularly true during spring migration if a front moves in from the north forcing the migrants down at first landfall onto Dauphin Island or Fort Morgan. Fall migration is equally great and extends over a little longer period

Alabama Ornithological Society allowing birders more Reddish Egret time to savor their Table of Contents Introduction ...... 4 findings. There are some The Gulf Shores-Orange Beach Loop ...... 8 differences in species that Fort Morgan Loop ...... 14 come through during South Baldwin County Loop ...... 19 Eastern Shore, Mobile Bay Causeway ...... 24 spring and fall.” and Blakeley Island Loop

East Mobile River-Tensaw Delta Loop ...... 33 John Porter, Ph.D. and Executive Director— Dauphin Island-Bayou La Batre Loop ...... 37 Friends of Dauphin Island ACBT Partners ...... 47 Audubon Sanctuary Code of Birding Ethics ...... 48 Credits ...... 51 The mission of the The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail Reddish Egret U.S. Fish and The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail, Wildlife Service is working with others arranged as a series of loops, to conser ve, protect describes the birding spots most and enhance fish, frequented by Alabama birders. wildlife, plants and Each loop could easily take a half day their habitats for the or more. Detailed directions are continuing benefit of the American people. provided in a sequential fashion, but it is not necessary to follow the complete loop. Suggestions are given

for some of the birds that may be A. Morris © expected at each site. More current information can be obtained by We remind We hope you’ll take a look at all this calling the Rare Bird Alerts for all birders great region has to offer. Please visit Alabama, 205/987 2730 provided by one of the welcome centers located on the Alabama Ornithological Society to exercise the maps within this trail guide, or (AOS), and for Northwest great care in contact one of the organizations Florida/South Alabama, enjoying the below and let us help you make plans 850/934 6974 provided by to come back again and again. Francis M. Weston Audubon birds of our Society, Pensacola. On coast; care for Alabama Gulf Coast the Internet check the the birds and Convention & Visitors Bureau AOS website http:// their habitat, P.O. Drawer 457 www.bham.net/aos/ for Gulf Shores, AL 36547 current information. For care for the 800/745 SAND or 334/968 7511 further details on this area or property www.gulfshores.com other areas in Alabama see A owners who Birder’s Guide to Alabama, The host our avian Mobile Convention & Alabama Coastal University of Alabama Press (2000). Visitors Corporation Birding Trail logo visitors, and P.O. Box 204 Alabama’s Gulf Coast is a paradise care for other Mobile, AL 36601-0204 not only for birders, but for visitors birders. 800/5 MOBILE or 334/208 2030 with a variety of interests. We have Thank you! www.mobile.org beautiful gulf beaches, historic homes and fortresses, championship golf These symbols are used for site courses, world-class fishing and descriptions in the text and on the much, much, more. accompanying maps. Open for day use Hunting also occurs in our area. Open for day use—admission Hunting season usually runs from charged October through February, though nonconsumptive use is permitted Open daily—developed camping year round. For more information on is available hunting or fishing contact the Prior arrangements are required Alabama Game and Fish Division at ? Information 334/626 5474. [x.x] Mileage shown within the brackets is the distance between two points Look for the Reddish Egret logos on the ACBT road signs.

4 5 34 80 Alabama Coastal Highways/Interstates 59 Secondary Roads Streams Birding Trail Map Mobile County Mobile Baldwin County River Citronelle 35 Birding Site Descriptions 96 Open Daily, 45 65 Developed Camping Available Admission Charge Stockton 47 43 Open for Day Use 217 Open for Day Use EXIT 31 Admission Charge Prior Arrangement Required 59 287 ? Information 65 Tensaw River Birding Trails 225 Gulf Shores-Orange Beach Loop Bay 112 Minette Ft. Morgan Loop South Baldwin County Loop Satsuma 36 138 7 Eastern Shore, 217 45 59 Mobile Bay Causeway and 43 37 86 158 Saraland Blakeley Island Loop 98 40 East Mobile River 33 Chickasaw Tensaw Delta Loop Grand Dauphin Island Prichard Bay 38 225 Bayou La Batre Loop Blakeley 90A 32 River Mobile Polecat 30 31 Bay Spanish 65 29 98 26 ? Fort 31 59 112 ? 28 90 27 Ft. Conde Scenic 90 10 90 Welcome Overlook/ 25 Center Eastern Shore Loxley Chamber Bel Air 24 Drive 163 27 Daphne 90 10 193 104 Robertsdale Silverhill 90 Fairhope 59 23 Mobile Bay Bellingrath 193 98 49 Summerdale Road 188 98A Foley Beach Express 19 59 48 24 Elberta Little River Bayou La Foley 20A 98 Road 50 Batre Hemley 20 Road Magnolia 83 Grand Weeks 49Springs Little Coden 49 20 Bay Alabama Port Bay 18 Bay Belt 47 12 17 RoadFowl River 21 16 Heron Bay 19 46 10 Perdido Bay Bay Bon Wolf Marina Road 193 Secour River 22 4 Bay Mississippi Sound Bon Gulf 16 N Gulf Shores ? 180 161 3 40 Secour Bay Shores ? 44 Welcome Center 6 7 5 182 2 1 39 180 45 42 10 8 4 Orange 41 43 12 180 9 Beach Dauphin Island 14 13 15 11 Mobile Bay Choctaw Mobile Street Orange Beach Gulf of Mexico 6 Ferry Route Road Welcome Center 7 Gulf Shores – Orange Beach Loop Alabama Gulf Coast 98 Elberta Convention and Visitors Bureau Foley P.O. Drawer 457 Foley Beach 59 Express Gulf Shores, AL 36547 49 334/968 7511 or 800/745 SAND 20

USFWS Gulf State Park 12 Tri-colored Heron 20115 Highway 135 Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Wolf 334/948 7275 Bon Orange Beach Bay Perdido Secour Welcome Center Bay River 4 Gulf Shores – Orange Beach is a well Gulf Shores known resort area with many fine Welcome Center ? 3 restaurants and accommodations as 180 161 2 ? Gulf Shores 2 1 well as a variety of attractions and 6 5 182 recreational opportunities. The Gulf 135 7 Orange Marina Road 180 10 4 Shores – Orange Beach Loop of the 8 Beach Alabama Coastal Birding Trail 9 begins at the bridge over Perdido Pass, east of AL 59 on AL 182 [8.8]. Gulf of Mexico ACBT 1. Perdido Pass/Alabama Point – East (Formerly Florida Point when the Gulf Shores – needed for the distant waterfowl. After state border was located at Perdido Orange Beach L oop viewing the pass take the loop under Pass.) This site is part of Gulf State the bridge and return to AL 182. Park (334/948 7275) and consists of beach and sea oat habitat where ACBT 2. there are opportunities for bird Perdido Pass/Alabama Point – West observation, fishing, and viewing Cross over the bridge traveling west both Perdido Pass and the Gulf of and turn left (south) [0.6] into the Mexico. There are no posted hours parking lot for this portion of the for this park but overnight camping Alabama Point facility. There is a sea is not permitted. There are portable wall along this side of the pass with restroom facilities at the site. benches. Portable restroom facilities are available. As with the east side no Snowy Plover, a species on the Watch overnight camping is allowed but List, nests in the area, most often there are likely to be some fisherman found in depressions in the sand here at any hour of the day or night. away from the water and near the This location provides another first line of dunes. Alabama Point perspective on the same areas viewed also provides critical habitat for the from the east side. Rock jetties extend federally endangered Perdido Key a considerable distance out into the beach mouse. A wide variety of gulf on this side and can be accessed shorebirds are common in summer, by walking west along the beach. This as are wading birds. In winter, is a somewhat perilous venture since numbers of Common Loons feed in the rocks tend to be wet and slippery. the pass during changing tides. An The trip out does provide for a better occasional vagrant Pacific or Red- chance to observe the winter seabirds throated Loon may show up in their that may be in the area, scoters, midst. A spotting scope is usually phalarope and loons. 8 9 ACBT 3. Return to State Park Road turning Boggy Point left (north) and continue a short Continue west on AL 182 to AL 161 distance to Campground Road on the [2.0], turn right (north) and continue right (east). In a short distance you to Marina Road on the right [0.8], will come to the registration building turn right (east) and proceed to the where non-camping visitors register end of the peninsula that ends [1.5] at and pay a small fee. Proceed along

USFWS Great Egret the Boggy Point Boat Launch, an the main route, Raccoon Road, to the Alabama Department of third turn on the right which is Conservation and Natural Resources marked for the Nature Center and facility. There is a small beach here Camp Pavilion. and an excellent view of Robinson Island to the east, a roosting site for The pavilion has restrooms, public herons and egrets. This location phones and a camp store, open six gives an alternate view of Perdido days a week, Monday -Thursday, Pass. Return from Boggy Point to 7 am to 9 pm and Friday – Saturday, AL 161, turn left (south) and retrace 7 am to 10 pm. The Nature Center is your route back to AL 182. across the parking lot and is open and staffed Monday – Saturday, 9 am

ACBT 4. Luther C. Goldman to 3 pm. Maps showing the six Gulf State Park Pavilion Sandhill Crane walking trails in the park and bird Turn right (west) on AL 182 to the lists are available and the naturalist Gulf State Park Pavilion and Beach on duty can give you the latest [3.6] on the left (south). There is a information on birds in the park. In nominal parking fee. This is a large, winter check Middle Lake from the covered picnic pavilion with tables pavilion for ducks. Also in winter and benches, restrooms and water check the Alligator Marsh Trail for

Larry W. Richardson Larry W. fountains. The pavilion closes at Sandhill Crane. Red-breasted sunset. This is another great place to Merganser look for seabirds, particularly in ACBT 6. winter. Northern Gannet is common Marsh Bridge off shore during migration. Any flock Return to State Park Road (BC 2), of loons should be carefully sorted for turn right (north) and continue to the Red-throated and Pacific. Walk the intersection with AL 135 [2.5] and beaches for plovers and peeps. bear to the left (south) at the intersection. The park headquarters ACBT 5. will be up hill on your right. Continue Nature Center – south on AL 135 one mile to Marsh Gulf State Park Campground Bridge, the stream is the effluent Continue west on AL 182 to State from Shelby Lakes and Little Park Road (Baldwin County Road 2 Lagoon. Cross the bridge and there “BC 2”), [0.6] and turn right (north), is parking on the left. Check for cross the bridge over the boat canal bitterns, rails and winter sparrows. and park on the left (west) side of the road in the grassy area. You may ACBT 7. walk Middle Lake Trail along the Shelby Lake Picnic Grounds edge of the canal to Lake Shelby. Continue on AL 135 to the entrance Groove-bill Ani is a possible winter to the picnic grounds [0.9] where find in here and look for winter there is a nominal admission charge. sparrows too. There are bathhouses, restrooms and

William Vinje, USFWS Vinje, William a store. The area closes and the gate Canvasback Duck is locked at sunset. Check the main 10 11 lake for waterfowl in winter, an ACBT 10. occasional rarity has appeared in the Wade Ward past. Be sure to check the small Nature Park lagoon southeast of the easternmost Return east on parking lot. Jon boats are available AL 182 to AL 59, for rent at the store but you have to turn left (north) furnish your own motor. and continue two blocks. On the ACBT 8. right (east) is the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier Wade Ward Exit the picnic area to the left (south) Nature Park, and enter the right lane of AL 135. USFWS owned and Go to AL 182 and turn right at the Heron babies operated by the City of Gulf Shores. traffic light. Move into the left lane The park offers scenic boardwalks and turn left to the fishing pier in a overlooking canals and coastal salt short distance [0.3]. Park in the marshes. A unique rarity in the midst parking lot, trying to avoid the places of such a vibrant resort city, it is a reserved for fisher folk. There is a relatively new birding site. It offers small admission for sightseeing, ideal habitat for bitterns and rails. including birding. The end of the pier Public parking is available just south is an excellent viewing point for one block east of AL 59 between East seabirds especially in winter. Recent Second and East First Avenue. Christmas Bird Counts have yielded Red Phalarope and all three scoters This is the end of the Gulf Shores – at this site. Orange Beach Loop. You may continue northward on AL 59 to the ACBT 9. intersection with AL 180 and the Little Lagoon Pass beginning of the Fort Morgan Loop Leaving the fishing pier, turn left or to the north side of the (west) on AL 182 and drive through Intracoastal Waterway and the the main beach front intersection at beginning of the South Baldwin AL 59 and continue to the bridge County Loop. over Little Lagoon Pass [4.2]. There is a parking lot on the right (north) with restrooms. Little Lagoon is now Bird Notes essentially surrounded by development but good birds can be seen from this little park provided by the City of Gulf Shores. From here you may scan a sandbar (north) and part of Little Lagoon. A fair number of gulls, terns, Brown Pelican and occasionally American White Pelican, and shorebirds are generally found here. Your chances for rarities increase during migration; Reddish Egret occurs here regularly.

12 13 Fort Morgan Loop ACBT 11. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge 12295 Highway 180 Travel westward from the intersection Gulf Shores, AL 36542 of AL 59 and AL 180. Pass the Jeff 334/540 7720 Friend Trail sign on the left (south) and then the refuge office sign, also on Fort Morgan Historical Park the left. You may want to stop at the 51 Highway 180 West office for refuge information. Gulf Shores, AL 36542 Continue on AL 180 until you see the

334/540 7125 USFWS Laura Patrick, Pine Beach Trail sign on the left Great Blue Heron (south) [8.8]. Enter the parking lot. An The Fort Morgan Loop begins at the interpretive kiosk here usually has intersection of AL 59 and AL 180 in trail maps and bird cards. There is a Gulf Shores. Much of the Fort Morgan two-mile trail southeastward to the Peninsula is in the Bon Secour National beach by way of Little Lagoon and Wildlife Refuge, and the extreme Alligator Lake. Birding may not be western end is in the Fort Morgan challenging here but it is an enjoyable Historical Park. Other parts of the walk through pine-oak scrub and peninsula are under intense marshes and dune scrub. development and much of the access is on private property. Although there are Just west of the parking lot is Mobile no motels on the peninsula there are Street an unpaved road leading to a rental condominiums, beach houses and public parking lot near the gulf bed and breakfast accommodations beach. There are in-holdings in this available. There are only a few service area so birders should be particularly stations and restaurants. careful to respect the private property here. The road out to the beach is through marsh and palmetto Fort Morgan Loop habitat with the occasional opportunity to observe alligators. 98 27 Summerdale Caution is urged in these places, some of which are fenced to provide a healthy reminder not to get too close. 59 Mobile Bay There is also good habitat for winter sparrows and some waders along the 98 Foley road. The beach provides a vantage Weeks point for Northern Gannett, loons Bay 49 and other seabirds and shorebirds. 12 Return to AL 180.

ACBT 12. The Pines Bon Continue westward on AL 180 to the Bon Secour River 59 wide open beach and boat ramp at the Secour Bay site known as the Pines [4.0]. This Gulf Shores Welcome Center ? provides the best open view of Bon Gulf Shores Secour Bay to the north. If it is a good Choctaw 11 180 winter for ducks (cold enough Road 182 14 13 12 180 northward to force them south) there 15 Mobile can be huge rafts of grebes, ducks and Mobile Bay Gulf of Mexico Street Ferry Route mergansers. Old Squaw and scoters have been observed from this point. 14 15 ACBT 13. Ferry Landing St. Andrews Bay 15B Continuing west on AL 180 the pine Stables woods on the right (north) gives way 15C Middle Ground to marsh and open water. There will 15A 180 15D Landing be a sand track [4.2] leading off to a Fort Strip Morgan boat launch with access to view St. Sea Wall Andrews Bay and Mobile Bay beyond. This is a good area for rails 15E Craig Koppie, USFWS Craig Koppie, Marsh Peregrine Falcon and waterbirds. It is also a good area to watch for raptors during fall migration.

ACBT 14. Mobile Point Pilot Town Proceed westward on AL 180 to Fort Morgan-ACBT Pilot Town on the right (north) a Sites 15A-15E seen moving west. Winter produces development underway between the many waterbirds and sparrows. road and Mobile Bay. Turn right [1.0] Summer is the slowest season, but on unpaved Choctaw Road and can be good for terns. There are continue north a short distance to restrooms at the ferry landing and at Muskogee at the next intersection, the museum plus a snack bar at the turn right over to Cherokee and ferry landing. follow this along the canal to the end of the road. This is all private 15A. Stables property but Just after the entrance kiosk at the there are open eastern sea wall, park and bird the spaces to view wooded area on the right known as the bay and inlet. the Stables[0.2]. This is the best spot Common Ground in the park for passerine migrants, Dove is usually and should be explored thoroughly. here. It is also a The Hummer/Bird Study Group good place to S. Maslowski maintains their banding station in the Ruby-throated watch for Hummingbird Stables area each April and October swallows as they and welcomes visitors. gather for fall

Kim Rawnsley, USFWS Kim Rawnsley, migration. 15B. Ferry Landing Tree Swallows Following the main road to the west, ACBT 15. you reach the landing [0.1] for the Fort Morgan ferry to Dauphin Island, where an Fort Morgan [2.0] is located at the admission fee is paid to enter the western extremity of the peninsula park. and is an important stopover for spring and fall neotropical migrants. 15C. Middle Ground This is a classic migrant trap, and a The brush and scrub opposite the birding paradise when adverse landing are known as the Middle weather forces birds down in a Ground, another good migrant spot. “fallout,” especially in spring. Many Fields and lawns to the west, vagrant species find their way to this between the ferry landing and the

favorite birding spot, which can equal USFWS museum, are excellent for open- Dauphin Island in excitement. In fall, Easter n Kingbird country birds. hundreds of migrating hawks can be 16 17 15D. The Fort Look around the fort [0.5], especially Fairhope in oleander bushes, for migrants.

15E. Marsh 98 27 Summerdale The marsh and field area south of the 98A 19 fort can be observed from the sea 59 wall on the south side. Please take 24 Elberta care around the homes here. Walk to Foley 20A 98 Mobile Point to the south, either 20 Magnolia Burt Moore along the beach or between the dunes Weeks Springs 83 Royal Tern Bay 49 and the marsh. This is a good sea- 20 watching spot, and the point itself is 18 12 17 excellent for gulls and terns. 21 16 This is the end of the Fort Morgan Bon 19 10 Wolf Bay Loop. At this point you may either Secour Bay Bon Secour River E. 29 22 Street return to Gulf Shores, perhaps to Gulf Shores Welcome Center ? 16 Orange rest for the evening, or start the Gulf Shores 180 Beach South Baldwin County Loop or you ? 180 182 may catch the ferry to begin the Orange Beach Dauphin Island Loop. 180 Welcome Center Gulf of Mexico Bird Notes

South Baldwin South Baldwin County Loop County Loop South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce 104 N. McKenzie Street/Highway 59 P.O. Box 1117 Foley, AL 36536 334/943 3291 www.southbaldwinchamber.com

This loop begins at the intersection of AL 59 and East 29th Avenue, just north of the Intracoastal Waterway in Gulf Shores. It is an inland route with lots of sod farms and other agricultural operations. Prime attractions in this area are Upland and Buff-breasted Sandpipers and winter sparrows. This section is not really a loop but several excursions off AL 59.

18 19 ACBT 16. ACBT 18. Mariculture Center Glenlakes Country Club Turn right (east) on East 29th Avenue, Return along BC 12 (west) to Eagle go two blocks, turn right (south) onto Lane and turn right, making your East 2nd Street, drive two blocks and way through this charming lakeside turn left on Mildred Casey Drive and neighborhood. Look for waterfowl on continue past the industrial park to the the lake in winter, and waders along Claude Peteet Mariculture Center, a the stream sides. Check all the open facility operated by the Alabama spaces, winter birding here is Department of Conservation and sometimes rewarding. Continue Natural Resources, on the left [1.4]. winding your way northward through Ask in the office Monday–Friday, the development until you reach 8 am to 5 pm for permission to bird BC 20, turn left and continue west around the ponds and in the fields. You along BC 20 to AL 59 [2.9], checking may find assorted herons, egrets and the sod farms as you pass. shorebirds on the ponds, but the best birding here is in the fields for winter ACBT 19. sparrows. Magnolia Springs Landfill ACBT 17. Turn right (north) on AL Sod Farms 59 and continue to US 98 Return to AL 59 and turn right in Foley [2.5]. Turn left (north) and continue northward to (west) and travel west on BC 12 [4.8]. Turn right (east) and US 98 to BC 49 in Glen Smart continue eastward. After about a Magnolia Springs [5.0]. Snow Goose mile you will see fields of grass, Turn right (north) on BC sod farms, beginning on the right. 49 and continue Check these carefully during spring northward, crossing BC and fall migration for Upland and 24 after two miles and Buff-breasted Sandpipers and for coming to a sharp turn Snow Geese in winter. There are westward in another 0.5 many sod farms in this part of miles, continue another 0.4 Baldwin County providing miles to the entrance of opportunities for good birding. the landfill on the right.

Larry W. Richardson Larry W. However, do not drive on any of the Great Black-backed lanes or dirt trails nor interfere with Gull This is a county landfill and is open the operations of the farms. Observe Monday–Saturday, 7 am to 3 pm. from the road. A spotting scope gives Proceed to the second gate and enter a definite advantage here. Continue the landfill. Park in the parking area on BC 12, passing the Glenlakes and stop by the office to ask Country Club and subdivision on permission to bird. While at this site, the left (north) and noting the small take great care not to block or lake to the right (south). Check the otherwise interfere with the heavy fields between the lake and the road machinery. Do not enter the pit area for winter sparrows if the grass has for any reason. View birds from the not been cut recently. In a short roadside only. Gulls often loaf just distance you will pass Wolf Bay Drive north of the pit in a flat place on the on the right (south) continue past way to the public dump. And as you this a few hundred yards to a leave the landfill, check the small swampy pond on the left (north) ponds on the west side of the entrance where Lincoln’s Sparrow has been road for ducks and shorebirds. seen in recent winters. 20 21 ACBT 20. check the low area on the right for Weeks Bay geese, Greater White-fronted and National Estuarine Reserve Ross’s have been seen here. Continue Return to Magnolia Springs and turn southward on BC 49 to a turn right (west) on US 98, proceeding eastward and a bridge across Skunk some four miles to cross the Fish Bayou. This is a good spot for River and find Weeks Bay National American Woodcock at winter Estuarine Reserve on the left. The twilight and Winter Wren. If you are interpretive center is only a short here in the evening hours it’s a good distance from the highway and place to try your tapes for owls. USFWS provides restrooms, bird cards and Little Blue Heron other material. Inquire here about ACBT 22. recent sightings. Explore the Bon Secour Bay boardwalk leading to an observation Continue eastward on BC 49, crossing platform viewing Weeks Bay. Hours BC 19 [1.4] to BC 10 [2.2]. Turn right are Monday–Saturday, 9 am to 5 pm, (southwest) on BC 10 and continue to and Sunday, 1 to 5 pm. For guided River Road, a main street of Bon tours call 334/928 9792. Secour. Turn right (west) a few hundred yards to the waterfront and a ACBT 20A. seafood wharf. Park in the parking lot Mullet Point County Park and scan the bay and the small canal

Larry W. Richardson Larry W. Exit the Weeks Bay National Black- Crowned next to the parking lot. In winter look Estuarine Reserve parking lot and Night Heron for Black-crowned Night Heron in turn left (west) on US 98, continue addition to the usual gulls and terns. approximately five miles to Bryant’s River Road is about a half mile long,

USFWS American Woodcock Landing where US 98 turns abruptly on the waterfront. Return along River north. Bear to the left on BC 1, and Road, continuing past BC 10 to the proceed approximately 0.4 miles to eastern end. Park in an out-of-the-way the Mullet Point County Park on the location and walk to the shore where right. There is ample parking, you can look northeast up the Bon portable restrooms and picnic Secour River. In winter look for facilities. The Park provides an Horned Grebe and Eared Grebe is excellent view of the Bay from an a possibility, plus Hooded and elevated perspective. This has been a Red-breasted Mergansers. good site in the winter for ducks and waterfowl. Scoter are not uncommon This is the end of the South Baldwin here in colder weather. County Loop. Return northward along BC 10 following it as it turns right ACBT 21. (east) [2.3] to AL 59 [2.5]. Here you Sod Farms and Fields BC 49 may turn right to return to Gulf Return to Magnolia Springs, turning Shores or turn left (north) to move on right (south) on BC 49, winding to the Eastern Shore, Mobile Bay through the little village, crossing Causeway and Blakeley Island Loop. Magnolia River and continuing south on BC 49, checking the sod farms and Bird Notes fields along the way. In winter, check the large flocks of blackbirds for vagrants, Yellow-headed Blackbird and Bronzed Cowbird are possibilities. Check the shorter grass areas for American Pipit. Shortly after passing BC 16 on the left [4.6] 22 23 ACBT 23. Prichard 33 40 Fairhope Municipal Pier and Beach Chickasaw This loop begins at the municipal pier 45 Grand and beach at the west end of 43 Bay 225 Fairhope Avenue just off US 98A in Fairhope. There is no charge for the 65 90A 32 pier, but there is a charge for entry to Mobile Polecat Blakeley 30 31 Bay River the beach. The pier is a good location Spanish ? for winter ducks, and the parking 29 26 ? Fort 31 28 98 90 area for Barred Owl. 27 James Mattsson 10 Ft. Conde 10 Lesser Scaup 90 Welcome Center Scenic 90 ACBT 24. Overlook/ 25 Eastern Daphne Bayfront Park Shore Chamber of Return to US 98A turning left Commerce 24 Bay 27 (north) and continue along Scenic 163 Front Daphne Park Route 98A northward through Drive Montrose to Daphne turning left (west) on Bay Front Park Drive [8.0] 193 Mobile Bay 104 (at the juncture with US 98). Continue to the waterfront [0.4]. This 98A is a public park (City of Daphne) Fairhope open daylight hours. Scan the bay for 23 ducks, waders and shorebirds (low 193 98 tide). Return to US 98A and turn left (north) and continue northward on US 98. Easter n Shore, Eastern Shore, Mobile Bay Causeway Mobile Bay and Blakeley Island Loop Causeway and ACBT 25. Blakeley Island L oop Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce P.O. Drawer 31D D’Olive Bay Overlook This section is heavily developed Daphne AL 36526-0310 commercially. Just before the 334/621 8222 or 334/928 6387 www.eschamber.com intersection with I-10 [1.5] there is an overlook on the left (west) behind the Shell service station. This spot This loop covers part of the Eastern provides an excellent view of D’Olive Shore, Fairhope to Daphne, and then Bay below and farther out into crosses Mobile Bay on the Causeway Laura Patrick Mobile Bay. Check the bay for ducks (US 90/98) and continues northward Mallard Duck in winter as well as wading birds year up US 90A to Blakeley Island. The round. The balance of this loop will final site is on US 43 and offers an generally involve birds at a distance opportunity to take a swamp cruise and a scope is very helpful, if not at the Chickasaw Marina. There are necessary. many accommodations for food and lodging in the area particularly ACBT 26. around the intersection of US 98 and I-10 at exit 35. Meaher State Park Continue north on US 98 across I-10. You can either turn left (northwest) on US 98 and go to the next site, Meaher State Park(skip to next paragraph for directions to Meaher Statr Park). Or you can continue straight for a very short distance, 24 25 take the next left onto Larry Dee to the north end of the bay for Cawyer Drive and stop at the Scenic American White Pelican and White Overlook which is atop the hill and and Glossy Ibis. There will be several surrounded by a rock wall. Area more tempting places to stop as you information, restrooms and telephones continue westward. Check them out! are available at the Scenic Overlook which is also the location of the ACBT 28. Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce. Mobile Bay Mudflats Continue west under Return to US 98, turn right this time the I-10 interchange. (still northwest) to the junction with The best viewing at US 90 and US 31 (Mobile Bay this site is during low Causeway). Proceed westward on US tide. Drive to an open 90/98/31 to the entrance of Meaher spot in the shore

State Park on the left (south). Picnic USFWS vegetation on the left facilities and restrooms are available Long-billed Curlew (south) [1.5]. Park here and the park closes at sunset. and make your way to the mudflats.

USFWS Chipping Spar row Stop at the gate house to pay a This is a good place to look for waders nominal entrance fee and then drive and waterfowl in winter. Long-billed to the shell road about three-tenths Curlew was found here on one recent mile to the boardwalk trail. Park here Christmas Bird Count. (there is a chain across the shell road at this point) and walk on toward the ACBT 29. boardwalk that extends out into Battleship Park Mobile Bay. As you approach the Cross over the bridge going boardwalk watch for sparrows. Many westward and turn into the USS wading birds can be seen from the Alabama Battleship Memorial Park boardwalk, including bitterns and on the left (south) [1.6]. Admission is rails. This is a great place for terns, charged per vehicle to enter the park including Gull-billed in summer. On which entitles you to use the the south side of the island, looking restrooms in the gift shop. The open west into the bay there are often ibis. lawns of the park can be excellent for American White Pelican finds this a shorebirds particularly after a rain. A favorite spot in winter, as do large Long-billed Curlew has been reliable rafts of ducks. here for several winters. Bear to the right as you drive into the park and ACBT 27. toward the southwest you will see a Chacaloochee Bay paved walkway leading to an Continue westward on US 90 to the observation deck (currently under open area on both sides [2.0] viewing repair) overlooking Pinto Pass. Chacaloochee Bay to the north and During low tide this area is filled with

USFWS Mobile Bay to the south. Be herons, egrets, and occasionally ibis, Blue-winged T eal extremely careful of the traffic when especially in late summer. Black- crossing over. This is an excellent necked Stilt may be around almost place for ducks in winter and waders any time of the year at low tide. Gull- all year on both sides of the road. By billed Tern is here in summer and far the most numerous will be Least Bittern often fly across from American Coot which winter here by one marshy area to the next. During the tens of thousands. Look for migration the mudflats are filled with Mottled Duck, Northern Shoveler, shorebirds. Look for dabbling ducks Canvasback, Lesser Scaup and in the shallows and bay ducks farther Ruddy Duck to mention a few. Look out in the deeper water to the south. 26 27 There may be numbers of Yellow- ACBT 32. crowned Night Herons here with Blakeley Island Mud Ponds many immatures in late summer and Go north on US 90A. The ponds on Black-crowned year round. Continue the dikes at Blakeley Island are the around to the parking lot to the east premier shorebirding spots in the side along the bay, checking for gulls state. Spring and fall migration can

and terns. At the extreme north end, USFWS offer looks at hundreds of shorebirds. park and survey the lawn from this American Avocet It is a reliable place to see a variety (winter plumage) vantage point for the curlew and any of ducks in winter. The shallow ponds plovers that you might have missed along the road as you approach the from the other side. dikes are often good for shorebirds. The ponds continue under the bridge, ACBT 30. and these may be reached by turning North Pinto Disposal Area left at the approach to the bridge. Return to US 90/98 and turn left (west) continuing to a closed gate on Warning! This is a former industrial the left (south) [0.3] leading up to the waste treatment site and the waters top of a dike. Follow the instructions in these ponds can be extremely given under ACBT 32 to notify caustic. The ponds are currently Alabama State Docks before birding used for the disposal of dredge this site. Park out of the traffic on the materials by the U.S. Army Corps of left and walk up the dike. This is a Engineers and the Alabama State dredge refuse disposal area, Docks. Do not leave the road or the frequently graded and turned to tops of the dikes for any reason! hasten drying of the mud, but there Entry to the upper ponds is by is usually some water in the ponds. permit only and requires the annual When there is water this can be an submission of a liability waiver form excellent shorebird spot especially to the Alabama State Docks and during migration, with sandpipers, notification of a visit beforehand. yellowlegs and dowitchers being seen Weekdays call 334/441 7085, regularly. If there is appreciable weekends 334/441 7777 to notify the water in the winter there may be docks of your intention to visit. You ducks. may download the required forms from the Alabama Ornithological ACBT 31. Society (AOS) web site at Polecat Bay http://www.bham.net/aos/. The forms Continue northwesterly on US 90/98 may also be obtained at the visitor’s to the traffic light at the Bankhead centers in Gulf Shores and Orange Tunnel [0.7], where the exit from I-10 Beach or at Fort Conde in Mobile. merges. Pull to the side of the road The forms may be mailed to the and park on the shoulder well out of Alabama State Docks (the address the traffic. Walk toward the water. is on the forms) or faxed to: This spot gives an excellent view 334/441 7255. The AOS web page also has a map indicating which ponds Charlie Hiedecker northward to Polecat Bay. At low tide Osprey there will be an appreciable mud flat are currently open to visitors. here with lots of shorebirds during migration. In the winter months Insect repellent is in order. Be there will be a good sampling of advised; any of the following trips ducks from this point. Osprey have are potentially long, hard, hot walks, nested on the light pole above the so prepare accordingly. ramp for the past several years.

28 29 32B. Mud Lakes Continue northward from the traffic light to the locked gate [1.8], access Cochrane point B, park well out of the way, and Bridge walk the dirt road up the dike. Continue east on the dike road, Blakeley 32C Island remembering not to leave the dike for any reason. The best areas for birding usually are lake numbers 32B 1 and 5 to the south and north of this dike as you first approach from Tailings Mobile Pond the west. River 32C. North Blakeley Disposal Area 32A Continue northward on US 90A to access point C at the foot of the 90A Cochrane-Africatown USA bridge, where you will note a road to the left (west) with a sign indicating “Alabama State Docks.” Follow this Polecat Bay under the bridge, carefully examining Mobile 32 Bankhead any birds that may be in the canals. Tunnel

Larry W. Richardson Larry W. As road veers left, take the second 30 31 Yellow -crowned dirt right which leads east to a locked 90 Night Heron gate at the base of a dike to the left. George 29 Climb the dike to check the area, Wallace 10 which under the proper conditions, Tunnel Battleship USS Alabama may produce waterfowl and Memorial Park 98 shorebirds. 90 ACBT 33. Mobile Tensaw Delta Swamp Tour Blakeley Island Return to US 90A and turn left Mud Ponds (north) crossing the Cochrane- Africatown USA bridge and 32A. South Blakeley Disposal Area continuing to the intersection with Continue north on US 90A to access US 43 [2.0]. Turn right (north) and point A [1.3]. Park well off the road continue through Chickasaw to the near the locked gate across from the Chickasaw Marina on the left (west) “Bender Yard 9” sign, and leave your [6.0]. Wildland Expeditions provides permit sheet visible on the front swamp tours up Chickasabogue dash. Bear to the right as you walk Creek exploring parts of the 200,000- on the dirt road leading southeast to acre Mobile Tensaw Delta aboard the the diked pond. At the top of the dike “Gator Bait”. The tour takes about scan the large ponds in various two hours and is narrated by

Daivd Hall stages of management; you must stay Snowy Egret Captain Gene Burrell who points out on the perimeter dikes. Best areas the birds and wildlife along the way.

Mike Boylan American Avocet usually are in the northwest and Tours depart at 8 am, 10 am and (summer plumage) southwest corners of the pond. 2 pm. There is a fee for the tour. Reservations are recommended. For more information call 334/460 8206.

30 31 This is the end of the Eastern Shore, Mobile Bay Causeway and Blakeley 34 80 Island Loop. To proceed on to the East Mobile River – Tensaw Delta 59 Loop, continue north on US 43 to Mobile AL 158. Turn left (west) on AL 158 River to I-65. Go North on I-65. As you 35 cross over the Mobile River, you will have a spectacular view of the water 96 and forest land below. Continue to AL 225 at exit 31, where you will go Stockton 47 north on AL 225. Or you can return 43 to US 90A and go south to the intersection of US 90 and I-10. EXIT 31 Head west on I-10 to do the Dauphin 65 59 287 225 Island – Bayou La Batre Loop. Tensaw Drive on I-10 to the west side of River Mobile to exit 17-A, AL 193 South. Bay 112 Go south on AL 193 to Dauphin Minette Satsuma 138 Island. Skip over a few pages to the 36 7 59 Dauphin Island – Bayou La Batre 43 86 37 Loop section of this guide for further 158 Saraland directions to the birding sites in 40 Prichard this loop. Chickasaw Grand 38 Bay Bird Notes 90A Blakeley Polecat River Bay

East Mobile River – Tensaw Delta L oop East Mobile River – Tensaw Delta Loop North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce 301 McMeans Ave. P.O. Box 310 Bay Minette, AL 36507 334/937 5665 www.northbaldwinchamber.com

This loop begins at the intersection of I-65 and AL 225 just south of Stockton, AL. In this area northeast of Mobile the waters of the Alabama and Tombigbee Rivers merge into the tangled Mobile Delta. Though best explored by boat, these bottomlands can be accessed at several points along the eastern periphery from AL

32 33 225 and AL 59. The main attraction ACBT 36. for birders is the abundance of Cliff’s Landing breeding songbirds; other species One of the best spots in Alabama to such as large waders and kites also view Swallow-tailed and Mississippi can be seen. Early May is the best Kites, spring and summer, is at time to do this loop. Start at the Cliff’s Landing south of I-65. Return northern extreme of this loop, near to AL 59. Continue southward back Fort Mimms where good woodland through Stockton, bearing right onto birding may be found and then work AL 225, cross I-65 [9.0] to Cliff’s your way southward. Insect repellent Landing Road (BC 7) [6.6] on the is a must! USFWS right (west). Drive west on BC 7 Mississippi Kite from AL 225 [1.7] and turn into the ACBT 34. large parking lot. Look for kites and Holly Creek Landing other raptors across the river to the From exit 31 on I-65 drive north on west, with best light in the morning. AL 225 to Stockton where AL 225 Return to AL 225. joins AL 59 [3.7]. Continue northward on AL 59 to BC 80 [13.0] ACBT 37. and turn left (west) on BC 80. To Mobile Tensaw Delta reach Holly Creek Landing veer Wildlife Management Area right on Uniontown Road off BC 80 Located along the east bank of the

USFWS Bar red Owl [1.4]. Uniontown Road becomes Holly Tensaw River is an 850-acre parcel of Creek Landing Road at the the Mobile Tensaw Delta Wildlife intersection with Holly Creek Road Management [1.4]. Continue west on Holly Creek Area. Purchased Landing Road, past a road to the by the U.S. right (north) to the river camp, onto Army Corps of Holly Creek Landing [1.7]. This is Engineers as really back country so prepare part of the accordingly. The final portion of this Tennessee- road is best for birding, though it is Tombigbee unpaved and may be flooded if the Waterway water level is high. Breeding Acadian mitigation this Flycatcher and Swainson’s Warbler area is managed are likely finds here in spring. by the Alabama Department of ACBT 35. Conservation BC 96 & Bachman’s Sparrow and Natural Return to AL 59 and go south to BC Resources. 96 [7.4]. Bachman’s Sparrow is To reach the

USFWS present in the open pine woods along White Ibis area continue BC 96 just east of AL 59. After the southward on AL 225 to BC 86 on the first mile, check the woods on either right (west) [1.9]. Turn onto BC 86 side of the road for the next half mile. and continue to a fork in the road [0.8] and bear left and continue to

Nick Milam Please respect private property in Bachman ’s Spar row this area. Don’t cross the fences! the wildlife management area at the end of the road [2.9]. A variety of habitats may be found on this area including flooded hardwood bottoms along the river to upland hardwoods and pines. Also located on the wildlife management area is a lake and 34 35 peripheral freshwater marshes. 90 During the nesting season common species include Red-shouldered 59 Hawk, Barred Owl, Red-eyed Vireo, Northern Parula and Prothonotary 193 Bellingrath Warbler. Swallow-tailed Kite may be 188 Road spotted flying along the river banks Mobile Bay just above the tree line. Hunting 48 season on the management area runs 50 Bayou from mid-October to the end of La Batre February, though nonconsumptive Grand use is permitted year round. For Bay Hemley Road Little Coden 49 Alabama Port more information contact the Bay Belt Road Alabama Wildlife and Fresh Water Fowl Heron 47 Fisheries Division at 334/626 5474, River Bay Bay P.0. Box 7245, Spanish Fort, AL 36577. 46 193 ACBT 38. Mississippi Sound Historic Blakeley State Park Return to AL 225 and continue 44 39 40 southward to the park entrance [7.5] 45 42 43 Mobile Bay 41 Ferry Route on the right (west). Turn right and Dauphin Island get park information at the welcome Gulf of Mexico station. Follow the road into the site.

S. Maslowski Wood Thrush Park hours are 9 am to 5 pm daily Dauphin Island – and a nominal admission fee is Bayou La Batre L oop charged. The park gives easy access to the usual woodland species in a Dauphin Island – Bayou La Batre Loop pleasant setting. Friends of the Dauphin Island Audubon Sanctuary, Inc. This is the end of the East Mobile P. O. Box 1295 River – Tensaw Delta Loop. Return Dauphin Island, AL 36528 to AL 225 turn right and continue 334/861 2120 southward to I-10 and head west. www.gulfinfo.com/dibird Continue west on I-10 to exit 17-A, AL 193 South, to Dauphin Island. Town of Dauphin Island Go south on 193 to the beginning of P. O. Box 610 the Dauphin Island – Bayou La Dauphin Island, AL 36528 Batre Loop. 334/861 5524 www.gulfinfo.com/ditown

Dauphin Island is one of the most Bird Notes popular places on the Gulf Coast for birding during spring migration. The Dauphin Island bird card lists 345 species, about 85 percent of the state list. As a classic migrant trap it can be an overwhelming experience during a spring fall out when a cold front moving southward brings rain and northerly winds causing birds to literally fall from the sky. Birding can 36 37 be equally good in the fall but seems midden. The park is to linger longer. Motels are managed by the Marine conveniently located for birding as Resources Division of the are several excellent restaurants. Alabama Department of Check with either of the above Conservation and Natural contacts for further information. Resources, whose offices are on the back side The loop begins at the water tower (northeast corner) of the on Dauphin Island, at the southern park. Check in the office end of AL 193, covers the forested USFWS for a tide table, it will be Painting Bunting east portion of the island, then the invaluable in birding for shorebirds western portion. The loop then and waders. The ancient live oaks continues across the bridge and provide the insects and cover that the causeway to the mainland and travels neotropical migrants depend on at west on AL 188 to Bayou La Batre. their first landfall. It is not unusual to see 20 species of warblers here on ACBT 39. a good day. Check the information Shell Mound box at the north side of the mound From the water tower drive east on for recent bird sightings and a bird Bienville Boulevard to Iberville card for the island. Look northward Street [0.3], turn left and you will see from here across the field to the the Shell Mound straight ahead of feeders on the edge of the lawn. you, to the north. Park on the Check for Bronzed Cowbird as well Dauphin Island- shoulder anywhere and explore the as Shiney Cowbird that show up ACBT Sites 39-45 mound, an ancient Indian shell occasionally.

Chugae Point Aloe Bay Channel Little Dauphin Bayou Aloe Hudson Bay Island 193 Dauphin Island Bay Pass Drury 44 Indian Bay Mobile Bay Point Isabel Indian Mound Park 39 Chaumont St Confederate Omega Cadillac Pass Street Iberville Lackland Street Avenue 40

water tower Grant St. Mobile Bay Ferry Landing 41 Bienville Bienville Boulevard Boulevard 42 Ft. Gaines Pelican Point 45 Dauphin Island Bienville Beach 43

Dauphin Beach Pelican Passage

38 39 ACBT 40. shore for waders, shorebirds and Goat Trees seabirds. Ferry landings are always After leaving the Shell Mound turn good for gulls and terns. Continue left (east) at the first road and past the Estuarium and on around continue east on Cadillac Avenue to the east end of Fort Gaines to the Grant Street [0.4]. Park on the parking lot at the end of the road shoulder out of the traffic and bird [0.9]. This spot provides an excellent

USFWS Prothonotar y the large oaks on the left. Migrants view of the Gulf of Mexico and Warbler frequently feed in these trees. Mobile Pass.

ACBT 41. Check the jetties for shorebirds. Cadillac Square Ruddy Turnstone and Black-bellied Turn right (south) on Grant Street Plover are common. Marbled Godwit and return to Bienville Boulevard, and Red Knot are fairly regular in across the street you will see Cadillac spring along the shore. Bobolinks Square, a large park with lots of old frequent the field and underbrush live oaks, picnic tables and restrooms. between the road and the fort It is also a good place to bird. In the during migration. spring of 1998, Black-whiskered Vireo was here for several days. ACBT 44. Airport ACBT 42. Return along Bienville Boulevard Dauphin Island back to the water tower. Continue to Audubon Sanctuary the next intersection and turn right Continue eastward on Bienville on Lackland after passing the town

Boulevard crossing Audubon Street USFWS hall on the left. Proceed on Lackland to the Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Black Rail two blocks to Chaumont, turn left Sanctuary [0.9]. Turn right into the (west) and continue on Chaumont to S. Maslowski parking area [100 yds.] During peak Omega Street. Bear to the right on Scarlet Tanager migration in mid-April, you may have the approach to the airport where to park in the median on Bienville there is marsh on both sides of the Boulevard. Check the information road. Continue to the end of the road box in the parking lot for brochures and park. Observe the no trespassing and study the map. The sanctuary signs for the airport proper. Though has 164 acres of largely maritime this is a small general aviation strip pine forest with several miles of there is frequent helicopter traffic trails. Passerines prefer the oak out to the gas wells in the gulf. grove of the Banding Area to the extreme east end of the Campground Check the marshes carefully for rails. Trail and the south boundary of the Clapper Rail is common, Virginia and swamp along the Dune Edge Trail. Sora are fairly common though Swainson’s Warbler is frequently secretive in fall and winter. Yellow found at the Banding Area and Rail is very rare in winter as is Black Black-whiskered Vireo may be found Rail most of the year. Also check the there occasionally. marshes for Seaside and Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrows. Check the ACBT 43. ponds and sandbars to the north for Pelican Point Reddish Egret. In winter scan the Continue eastward along Bienville bay for ducks; Horned and Eared Boulevard past the ferry landing. Grebe, scaup, Bufflehead, and You may want to pause here for the mergansers. Old Squaw is an restrooms and/or look at the far occasional visitor. During spring and 40 41 fall migration check the brush and ACBT 46. trees for passerines, particularly Cedar Point after a front with strong west winds. From the water tower proceed north This is the time and place for possible on Le Moyne Drive ( AL 193) across vagrants. the bridge to the mainland, carefully driving and looking at the same time. ACBT 45. Do not stop on the bridge, although West End the sandbars and shoals will be full of Return to Omega Street, turn right birds at low tide. When you reach the (south) and proceed to Bienville end of the bridge at Cedar Point [4.3] Boulevard. Turn right (west) on pull over and park on the shoulder, Bienville and continue westward facing the east. Check any sandbars after the boulevard turns to two that may be visible. Cross the road to lanes. the parking lot on the southwest side and check the sandbar to the west. It American Kestrel is common on the may have some seabirds as well as waders. Whimbrel has favored this

David Menke, USFWS wires during winter. The canals along American Kestrel the western portion of the drive are spot in the fall. Continue along the tidal and frequently host egrets, causeway toward the mainland and herons and ibis. There is one record shortly you cross Heron Bay Cutoff of White-faced Ibis along here. Bridge and the bait shop on the right Access to the western end of the (east). Check any terns you see island has been restricted. Beyond cruising over the marsh; Gull-billed St. Stevens Street there are cross Tern favors this area in spring and streets leading to the gulf on the summer. south and the Mississippi Sound on the north. You may use these to scan ACBT 47. the gulf for seabirds particularly Bayfront Park after a storm when the likelihood Continue northward on AL 193 to of boobies and gannets is greatest. Bayfront Park on the right (east). The sandbars on the sound side are This is a relatively new county park ephemeral, changing with the storms. that affords a good view of the open

USFWS They frequently host large numbers Green Heron bay with some marsh habitat. of gulls and terns, so check them out Although it is an untried birding spot carefully. Check the vacant lots for it has good prospects. There are Seaside and Nelson’s Sharp-tailed picnic tables and portable restrooms. Sparrows. Return to the water tower. ACBT 48. Note: The above description of the Bellingrath Gardens West End was written before Continue northward on AL 193 to Hurricane Georges (September Alabama Port and the intersection 1998). This portion of Dauphin Island with AL 188. Bear left (west) on AL was entirely overwashed by the 188 and continue to Bellingrath Road storm surge depositing large volumes [2.9]. Turn right (north) on of sand, resulting in a beach from Bellingrath Road, continue to the first

shore to shore. At this writing there USFWS turn to the right into the gardens [4.0] are no canals along the road, but Northern Parula and proceed to the parking lot [1.0]. many new sand bars and inlets. The gardens have not been birded Birding the area will be different heavily in recent years but offered but still good. good birding in earlier years. Bellingrath Garden’s literature lists 130 bird species. The entire 900-acre 42 43 complex is a bird sanctuary and there A scope is is an observation tower overlooking the essential here. Fowl River and salt marsh. Cruises Although there through the waters of the Fowl River will be signs of aboard the Southern Belle are traffic on the available at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm. The dike, please do gardens open at 8 am, closing time is not drive on the seasonal. Call Bellingrath Gardens at dike. Climb to the 334/973 2217 for admission costs to the top and walk the gardens and the river cruise. Return to eastern dike.

Bellingrath Road, turn left (south) and Richardson Larry W. Although this continue back to AL 188. pond has been Eared Grebe nearly filled with dredge refuse ACBT 49. material, there is water in the far, Coden Belt Road northern end. This pond has been Turn right (west) and proceed to terrific for shorebirds since the Clark Road [3.7] in Coden, and turn second year after it was built. left (south) and follow the road to the

Laura Patrick water’s edge. Continue westward on American Avocet and Black-necked Black Skimmers Coden Belt Road. There will be a few Stilt have been present year round sandbars exposed at low tide which as well as dowitchers, yellowlegs may be good for shorebirds, gulls and and the ever present Willet. Least terns. Occasionally a large flock of Tern has nested on the flat sands. Black Skimmers can be viewed out Walk the eastern dike to get a better over the water. Dunlin and Red Knot view, the birds have been fairly may be found in winter on the cooperative. There may be some sandbars. If it’s a cold winter there ducks on the open water, mostly may be bay ducks out on the water. Mallard. There is a dike running north and south partially dividing the ACBT 50. ponds, with much deeper water on Bayou La Batre Ponds the western end. Following Coden Belt Road you will return to AL 188 at the bridge over You may walk the path along the Coden Bayou. Turn left (west) and southern dike past the dividing dike continue westward on AL 188 to gain a view of the western pond or through Bayou La Batre. At the first walk back down to your vehicle and stop light after crossing the draw drive to the other end. There will be bridge over the bayou on Wintzell shorebirds along the edges of this Avenue (AL 188) turn left (west) onto pond but the main attraction here Little River Road and follow it to a is the waterfowl. In winter there fork [1.0] where Little River Road will be large numbers of ducks out becomes unpaved and Powell bears on the water, teal, scaup, Northern left as a paved road. Continue on Shoveler, Hooded Merganser and Little River Road to the elevated Ruddy Duck. It is expected that as dikes on the right. These ponds, built time goes by more and more ducks in 1996, are managed by the U.S. will find these ponds. Army Corps. of Engineers for the town of Bayou La Batre and are used to store the material dredged from the Bayou La Batre channel.

44 45 This is the end of the Dauphin ACBT Partners The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail is Island – Bayou La Batre Loop. an exciting cooperative effort that has involved an impressive mix of Hopefully your tour of the Alabama partners to date, including: Coastal Birding Trail was a memorable experience and you will Alabama Department of return again and again to enjoy the Conservation and Natural Resources extraordinary birdlife of our area. – Coastal Programs Office – Wildlife and Fresh Water Fisheries Division Return to AL 188 in Bayou La Alabama Department of Transportation Batre. To head for I-10 and

Mississippi, turn left (north) and USFWS Alabama Gulf Coast take AL 188 to Grand Bay and I-10. Common Convention and Visitors Bureau To retrace your path, turn right Yellowthroat (south) and continue eastward on Alabama Ornithological Society AL 188 to Alabama Port and the intersection with AL 193. At this Baldwin and Mobile point you may turn left (north) and County Governments return to I-10 and Mobile. Or, you Baldwin and Mobile can turn right (south) and return to County Municipalities Dauphin Island. You may want to stay on the island or take the ferry to Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge Ft. Morgan.

USFWS Indigo Bunting Dauphin Island Development Office Bird Notes Federal Highway Administration Friends of Dauphin Island Audubon Sanctuary, Inc. Gulf State Park Mobile Convention and Visitors Corporation Partners in Flight U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Special thanks to all chambers of commerce within Baldwin County, Alabama, individuals and organizations for whom this project would not be possible. Other partners are expected to join the effort as the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail project proceeds. The printing of this brochure was made possible through a grant from the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA). 46 47 American Birding Association’s exposed to predation from cats or Code of Birding Ethics other domestic animals, or dangers Group birding, Everyone who enjoys birds and posed by artificial hazards. whether birding must always respect wildlife, organized or its environment, and the rights of For Participants: impromptu, others. In any conflict of interest requires 4(a) Respect the interest, rights and between birds and birders, the special care. skills of fellow birders as well as welfare of the birds and their those of people participating in environment comes first. legitimate outdoor activities. Be Promote the 1(a) Support the protection of especially helpful to beginning welfare of birds important bird habitat. birders. and their environment. 1(b) To avoid stressing birds or 4(b) If you witness unethical birding exposing them to danger, behavior, assess the situation and exercise restraint and caution intervene if you think it prudent. during observation, photography, When interceding, inform the sound recording or filming. person(s) of the inappropriate action and attempt, within reason, 1(c) Before advertising the presence to have it stopped. If behavior of a rare bird, evaluate the potential for disturbance to the continues, document it and notify appropriate individuals or bird, its surroundings and other organizations. people in the area, and proceed only if access can be controlled, For Group Leaders:

USFWS disturbance can be minimized and Scissor-tailed permission has been obtained 4(c) Be an exemplary ethical role

Flycatcher from private land-owners. John Dindo model for the group. Teach Reddish Egret through word and example. 1(d) Stay on roads, trails and paths where they exist; otherwise keep 4(d) Keep group to a size that limits Respect the law habitat disturbance to a minimum. impact on the environment and and the rights of 2(a) Do not enter private property does not interfere with others using the same area. others. without the owner’s explicit permission. 4(e) Ensure that everyone in the group knows and practices this 2(b) Follow all laws, rules and code. regulations governing the use of roads and public areas. 4(f) Learn and inform the group of any special circumstances applicable 2(c) Practice common courtesy in contacts with other people. Your to the areas being visited (e.g., no tape recorders allowed). exemplary behavior will generate goodwill with birders and non- 4(g) Acknowledge that professional Ensure that birders alike. tour companies bear a special feeders, nest responsibility to place the structures 3(a) Keep dispensers, water and food clean and free of decay or disease. welfare of birds and the benefits and other of public knowledge ahead of the It is important to feed birds artificial bird company’s commercial interests. continually during harsh weather. environments Ideally, leaders should keep track are safe. 3(b) Maintain and clean nest of tour sightings, document structures regularly. unusual occurrences and submit 3(c) If you are attracting birds to an records to appropriate area, ensure the birds are not organizations.

48 49 Please follow this code—distribute it Credits The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail and teach it to others. Additional was originally the brain-child of Bob copies of the Code of Birding Ethics Reid, birder by avocation, can be obtained from: conservationist, avid supporter of Partners in Flight and member of American Birding Association the Alabama Ornithological Society P.O. Box 6599 (AOS). After talking to Madge Colorado Springs, CO 80934-6599 Lindsay of Great Texas Coastal 800/850 2473 or 719/578 1614 Birding Trail fame at a Partners in [email protected] Flight meeting, Bob came home and passed out assignments for an This ABA Code of Birding Ethics Alabama Coastal Birding Trail to may be reprinted, reproduced and coastal members of AOS ... and told distributed without restriction. them to send their material to us. As Please acknowledge the role of we were making scant progress, ABA in developing and promoting Larry Goldman, U.S. Fish and this code. Wildlife Service, became the state coordinator for Partners in Flight, and things began to move, especially when Connie Dickard joined his staff. Then Herb Malone, President and CEO of the Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau discovered eco- tourism and birders and things really took off. Through the efforts of all these participants and a grant from Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) the Alabama

Laura Patrick, USFWS Laura Patrick, Brown P elican Coastal Birding Trail has become a reality. No work on birding in Alabama can be complete without the contributions of Dr. Greg Jackson, pre- eminent Alabama birder, and “keeper of the records.”...Thanks Greg for your important part in this work.

John & Jackie Porter, Editors Dauphin Island, August 1998

K. King Royal Tern

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American People.

50 51 Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau P.O. Drawer 457 Gulf Shores, AL 36547 800/745 SAND or 334/968 7511 www.gulfshores.com

Mobile Convention & Visitors Corporation P.O. Box 204 Mobile, AL 36601 0204 800/5 MOBILE or 334/208 2030 www.mobile.org

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Daphne Field Office P.O. Box 1190 1208-B Main Street Daphne, AL 36526 334/441 5181 www.fws.gov

May 2001