Herb Parsons Lake

Tennessee · Southeast

ModerateView on eBird

Habitat

Lake

Best Seasons

Spring Fall Winter

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Herb Parsons Lake is a productive birding destination in Tennessee, with 208 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Bufflehead among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Common Loon Bald Eagle Double-crested Cormorant Ring-billed Gull Bufflehead

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Harris's Sparrow

Zonotrichia querula

3/4/2026Ag Fields along Smythe Farm Road East of Raptor Center1 observed

Say's Phoebe

Sayornis saya

3/4/2026Shelby Farms Park--Gardner Rd. Gardens1 observed

American Tree Sparrow

Spizelloides arborea

3/4/2026Shelby Farms Park--Gardner Rd. Gardens1 observed

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

3/1/2026Shelby Farms Park--Gardner Rd. Gardens1 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

2/28/2026Neighborhood Spot7 observed

Birding Tips

1
Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.
2
Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.
3
Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Elevation-diverse Appalachian park with northern breeding species and rich warbler variety.

Amnicola Marsh

Wetland birding hotspot in Tennessee with 203 recorded species.

Barkley Wildlife Management Area

Wetland birding hotspot in Tennessee with 205 recorded species.

Tennessee Birding Guide

Complete guide to birding in Tennessee →

Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

Where to See Bald Eagles in North America: A Seasonal Viewing Guide

11 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Herb Parsons Lake for birding?▼

The best months to visit Herb Parsons Lake for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.

What birds can I see at Herb Parsons Lake?▼

Notable species at Herb Parsons Lake include Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Double-crested Cormorant, Ring-billed Gull, Bufflehead. The area supports lake habitats.

How difficult is birding at Herb Parsons Lake?▼

Birding at Herb Parsons Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Herb Parsons Lake?▼

Herb Parsons Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.