Forest birding habitat

Woods Reservoir

Tennessee · Southeast

Habitat
ForestLake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Woods Reservoir is a productive birding destination in Tennessee, with 203 species recorded on eBird. This forest and lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Wood Duck, and Northern Shoveler 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

Chuck-will's-widow

Antrostomus carolinensis

7/8/2026815 Howell Road, Hillsboro, Tennessee, US (35.364, -86.018)1 observed

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus

7/7/20261–117 Rose Ln, Decherd US-TN (35.2558,-85.9608)4 observed

Worm-eating Warbler

Helmitheros vermivorum

7/2/2026470 Lake Elaine Road, Shelbyville, Tennessee, US (35.375, -86.364)2 observed

Pied-billed Grebe

Podilymbus podiceps

7/2/2026Bedford Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

17/12/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/12/2026

White-eyed Vireo

17/12/2026

Yellow-throated Vireo

17/12/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

17/12/2026

Carolina Wren

17/12/2026

Eastern Bluebird

17/12/2026

American Goldfinch

27/12/2026

Chipping Sparrow

17/12/2026

Field Sparrow

27/12/2026

Song Sparrow

27/12/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/12/2026

Northern Cardinal

17/12/2026

Blue Grosbeak

17/12/2026

Indigo Bunting

27/12/2026

Mourning Dove

17/11/2026

Purple Martin

27/11/2026

Wood Thrush

17/11/2026

American Robin

27/11/2026

Eastern Towhee

17/11/2026

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 Woods Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Woods Reservoir for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Woods Reservoir?
Notable species at Woods Reservoir include Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard. The area supports forest, lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Woods Reservoir?
Birding at Woods Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Woods Reservoir?
Woods Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.