Piedmont Plateau | Clay | Best Seasons: Fall | Spring
The nature trail leading through the densely-forested tract at Crooked Creek Watershed Site #3 is remote and has limited access, but the potential for finding good birds here is quite high. The habitat around the 53-acre lake is hardwood-dominated and the bird community is diverse and plentiful. Some swampy and marsh areas provide excellent habitat for waders and other water-loving birds.
There are opportunities for ducks in winter and Bald Eagles may show up at any time of the year. In spring and fall, the surrounding woodlands provides opportunities for a multitude of songbirds, including Northern Parulas, Hooded Warblers and Summer Tanagers.
This site lacks amenities of any kind, but is worth the extra effort.
GPS: 33.3207696 -85.803811
From I-20, take AL 77S to Ashland. Take AL 9N approximately 2 miles. Turn left onto Airport Rd. Travel 2 miles. Road dead ends at Watershed #2. Sign on left for Watershed #3.
Amenities Available: Boat Launch, Gravel or Dirt Trails
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