Central Loop, North Alabama | Madison | Best Seasons: Fall | Spring | Summer
Alabama A&M’s Winfred Thomas Agricultural Research Station (Site #27, Central Loop) consists of 900 acres of grasslands and agricultural fields, providing a rare area of open country filled with native birds. Bird the area by making frequent stops, and look for Grasshopper Sparrows, Dickcissels, and Eastern Meadowlarks. Scan the open agriculture fields for other sparrows such as Chipping and Field. In winter, these fields host Northern Harriers and Short-eared Owls, which can be seen patrolling over the extensive grasslands. The star attraction at the research station are the Scissor-tailed Flycatchers, which can be found in spring and early summer perched on small trees and fences across the area.
GPS: N 34.9025, W 86.5596
Fee: Free
Amenities: Driving Trail
Contact Info:
Alabama A&M Winfred Thomas Agricultural Research Station
372 Walker Lane
Hazel Green, AL 35762
(256) 372-4248
photos courtesy of Kenneth Ward
From the intersection of I-565 and US 231/431 (Memorial Parkway) in Huntsville, take exit 19B onto US 231/431 and drive 12.5 miles north. Turn right (east) onto Walker Lane and go 0.6 mile to the ARS sign and gate on the right. Visitors should note that the gate into the field station is periodically closed, at which time only walk-in birding is allowed.
Amenities Available:
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