SANP Field Event

Sandhill Cranes Hiwassee Refuge Area

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

Meeting place: Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge Observation Deck  545 Priddy Road, Birchwood, Tn

Time: 7:00 am

Registration available:  Beginning today

The Sandhill Cranes are back with a couple of Whooping Cranes.  The number of cranes is much larger than at the end of 2022.  It could be crowded as this should be a good day with the weather and some of us can only make it on weekends.  It is an early start so we are there before the photographers that sleep late will show up.  The cranes will be leaving this area soon. If you have not been this year, this could be a great day to visit.

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 cranes, ducks, pelicans, bluebirds, swans, or just the sandhill cranes. 

We will visit the observation platform at Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge Area, and maybe the Blythe Ferry Boat Ramp area.  

Expect it to be chilly in the morning. Come prepared for the weather.

Learning opportunities:

On this outing you will have the opportunity to practice with birds in flight from a few to several at a time.  You will have the opportunity to see the sandhill cranes while they are feeding.  Up close and at a distance.  A long zoom lens is best for sandhill cranes in flight.  

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 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.

Driving directions:  We will meet at Observation Deck at Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge.  545 Priddy Road, Birchwood, Tn.   

Restrooms:  None at the Observation Deck but plenty of field options.  Restrooms are available at the Cheorkee Removal Memorial.  

How to Find Me: Red Jeep Wrangler

Dale Potter

Field Events