Forest birding habitat

Nickajack Dam - North Side

Tennessee · Southeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Nickajack Dam - North Side is a productive birding destination in Tennessee, with 211 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Lesser Scaup, Pied-billed Grebe, and Double-crested Cormorant 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

Greater Scaup

Aythya marila

7/7/2026Nickajack Dam--Hogjaw Rd.1 observed

American Coot

Fulica americana

7/7/2026Nickajack Dam--North Side1 observed

American Coot (Red-shielded)

Fulica americana

6/29/2026Nickajack Dam--North Side1 observed

American Redstart

Setophaga ruticilla

6/29/2026Appalachian Conservation Institute (Permit Required)4 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

17/10/2026

Killdeer

17/10/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

17/10/2026

Great Blue Heron

27/10/2026

Black Vulture

257/10/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/10/2026

Osprey

37/10/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/10/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

27/10/2026

Carolina Wren

17/10/2026

Northern Mockingbird

17/10/2026

Song Sparrow

17/10/2026

Northern Cardinal

17/10/2026

Canada Goose

17/7/2026

American Coot

17/7/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

17/7/2026

Belted Kingfisher

37/7/2026

White-eyed Vireo

17/7/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

17/7/2026

Blue Jay

17/7/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Nickajack Dam - North Side for birding?
The best months to visit Nickajack Dam - North Side for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Nickajack Dam - North Side?
Notable species at Nickajack Dam - North Side include Lesser Scaup, Pied-billed Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Black Vulture, Turkey Vulture. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Nickajack Dam - North Side?
Birding at Nickajack Dam - North Side is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Nickajack Dam - North Side?
Nickajack Dam - North Side offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.