Central Loop Site 20: Wheeler NWR - White Springs Dike

Directions: In north Decatur, AL at the intersection of US Hwy 31 and AL Hwy 20/Alternate US Hwy 72 (this is the south end of the Hudson Bridge just before it crosses the Tennessee River), take Hwy 20/Alternate 72 north across the river 2.0 miles to the pullout on the right (east) side of the road.

Description: White Springs Dike on Wheeler NWR is one of the premier birding sites of the Tennessee River Valley in Alabama. The dike runs between a dewatering area on the north side and the Tennessee River on the south. Intrepid birders can walk for over 8 miles along the dike, getting excellent views of waterfowl and shorebirds on either side. Search for neotropical migrants in the woodland bordering the dike and listen for Yellow and Prothonotary warblers which nest in the area. Other surprises that turn up on occasion include American Bittern and Sora. Birders should note - it requires extensive walking to access the best birding; however, the diversity of species that can be seen is well worth the hike.