Sandhill Cranes and Waterfowl Winter Wonderland at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge

Trip Leader: Melanie Furr, Feathers with Furr, LLC

Group Size:  9 people (maximum)

Early Bird Discount: $375 (by November 15)

Tour Fee:  $425 (after November 15)

Prepare to be astonished by thousands of honking Sandhill Cranes flying above you at sunrise during this long-weekend tour of Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge and environs in Decatur, Alabama. Established as wintering habitat for migratory waterfowl, Wheeler hosts up to 20,000 Sandhill Cranes and abundant waterfowl each winter, as well as a small group of endangered Whooping Cranes. 

In addition to cranes, we expect to encounter numerous species of ducks and geese, including Greater White-fronted Goose, Gadwall, Northern Pintail, American Wigeon, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, and more. Common Loon and Horned Grebe are regularly seen at vantage points along the Tennessee River, as well as Snow Geese, American White Pelicans, and Bald Eagles. We also expect to find a variety of other wintering species like Bonaparte’s Gulls, Northern Harriers, Wilson’s Snipe, Rusty Blackbirds, and American Pipits.

Tour fee includes two full days of guided birding, plus two half days. Participants are responsible for their own transportation, accommodations, and meals. See the full trip itinerary for additional details.

Sandhill Crane at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge

Photo credit: Dana Brooks