Wetland birding habitat

Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge

Tennessee · Southeast

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Tennessee, with 235 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

Anhinga

Anhinga anhinga

7/5/2026Hatchie NWR--O'Neal Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

657/12/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

37/12/2026

Killdeer

17/12/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

117/12/2026

Great Blue Heron

27/12/2026

Turkey Vulture

27/12/2026

Mississippi Kite

17/12/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/12/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/12/2026

Eastern Kingbird

37/12/2026

White-eyed Vireo

17/12/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

17/12/2026

Purple Martin

157/12/2026

Barn Swallow

57/12/2026

Carolina Wren

17/12/2026

Eastern Bluebird

47/12/2026

Wood Thrush

37/12/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

77/12/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/12/2026

Summer Tanager

17/12/2026

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 Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge?
Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.