Wetland birding habitat

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - White Springs Dike

Alabama · Southeast

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - White Springs Dike is a productive birding destination in Alabama, with 256 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, and Gadwall among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Purple Gallinule

Porphyrio martinica

6/1/2026Wheeler NWR--Blackwell Swamp (NABT 26)1 observed

Anhinga

Anhinga anhinga

6/1/2026Wheeler NWR--Blackwell Swamp (NABT 26)1 observed

Common Gallinule

Gallinula galeata

6/1/2026Wheeler NWR--Blackwell Swamp (NABT 26)2 observed

Spotted Sandpiper

Actitis macularius

6/1/2026Home

Northern Harrier

Circus hudsonius

5/29/2026Wheeler NWR--Hiking Trail1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Rock Pigeon

25/31/2026

Osprey

55/31/2026

Cliff Swallow

45/31/2026

European Starling

15/31/2026

Northern Cardinal

15/31/2026

Indigo Bunting

25/30/2026

American Crow

15/29/2026

Tufted Titmouse

35/29/2026

Barn Swallow

55/29/2026

Carolina Wren

25/29/2026

American Goldfinch

15/29/2026

Summer Tanager

35/29/2026

Canada Goose

25/28/2026

Wood Duck

25/28/2026

Mallard

25/28/2026

Mourning Dove

75/28/2026

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

45/28/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

15/28/2026

Killdeer

25/28/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

15/28/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - White Springs Dike for birding?
The best months to visit Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - White Springs Dike for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - White Springs Dike?
Notable species at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - White Springs Dike include Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard, Bufflehead. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - White Springs Dike?
Birding at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - White Springs Dike is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - White Springs Dike?
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge - White Springs Dike offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.