SANP Field Event

Sandhill Cranes Hiwassee Refuge Area

Saturday, January 23, 2021

Leader:  Dale Potter               Phone:  (865) 773-8114             E-mail: dalepotter55@gmail.com

Meeting place: Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge Observation Deck  477 Priddy Road, Birchwood, Tn

Time:  1:00 pm

Registration available:  Beginning today

Location Description: 

The Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge Area has the largest winter gatherings of the Sandhill Cranes in the southeast.  In addition to Sandhill Cranes you may see some other birds of interest from eagles, herons, whooping crane, ducks, pelicans, bluebirds, swan, or just the Sandhill Cranes. 

We will visit the observation platform at Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge Area, the Blythe Ferry Boat Ramp area, and some of the surrounding roads.  If we are lucky we may be able to see some pelicans if they are back in the nearby area. 

Learning opportunities:

On this outing we will have the opportunity to practice with birds in flight from a few to several at a time.  We will have the opportunity to see the Sandhill Cranes while they are feeding.  Up close and at a distance.  

What to bring:

• Your favorite DSLR camera and lens. Extra batteries.
• Bring cold weather gear, hand warmers depending on the weather.
• Tripod can be useful unless you are shooting fast shutter speeds.
• Rain gear for yourself and a rain cover for your camera in case we have snow or rain.

Remember to dress for the weather and in layers.  Waterproof foot gear might be useful.  Keep your spare camera battery in a warm pocket so you can swap it out for the cold one in the camera as needed.

COVID-19 precautions:

We will practice social distancing and wear masks to mitigate the risk of virus transmission.  Carpooling is not recommended.

Driving directions:  We will meet at Cherokee Removal Memorial list above. Bathrooms are available at this location.

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