Birdwatching in the Tennessee Overhill

Contact:
Linda Caldwell, 423-263-7232, lcaldwell@tennesseeoverhill.com
Diane West, 423-263-7232, dwest@tennesseeoverhill.com

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The Cherokee National Forest is home to 262 bird species and offers excellent birdwatching for species such as the black-capped chickadees, ravens, woodpeckers and the most popular-warblers. During late spring and the first portion of summer, warblers are in their breeding plumage -- their boldest, most vivid colors -- and males are actively singing to proclaim their territory. While some warblers are uncommon or difficult to locate, there are several species that most anyone can find.
The prothonotary warbler is one of only a few warblers that nest in tree cavities and are becoming harder to locate due to destruction of its wetland habitat. They prefer flooded river bottoms and wooded swamps and can be seen in the Overhill region on Hiwassee Island.
Stratten Gap along the Cherohala Skyway is an excellent place to watch for the brilliant orange flash of a male Blackburnian Warbler. At Whigg Meadow and Mud Gap, birdwatchers can relish in the beauty of a scenic grassy meadow overlooking the mountains from an elevation of 5,000 feet.
For even more birding, go to the Gee Creek Trail section of the John Muir National Recreation Trail. This trail follows an abandoned forest road to the wilderness boundary and meanders through wooded areas and grasses. Shrubs and trees have been planted as well as nest boxes have been installed to attract wildlife for viewing.
Travel Forest Service Road 108 to Hood Mountain Overlook or to Big Bend Overlook when the forest comes to life during April as many types of warbler’s nest to raise there young along with veery, wood thrush, scarlet tanager, brown thresher and the Louisiana waterthrush. If you have a quick eye you could spot hummingbirds feeding on cardinal flower, jewel weed and bee balm. It is also the ideal place for viewing wading birds, such as blue heron and osprey on the shores of the Hiwassee State Scenic River or maybe even an eagle flying high.

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