Birmingham Audubon Society

The newly proposed Appalachian Highlands Birding Trail site of Coleman Lake in the Talladega National Forest,  the  home of Red Crossbills and Red-cockaded Woodpeckers, is our choice for the February field trip. Along with the "Red" birds, we'll have chances for Fox, Field and White-throated Sparrows. Coleman Lake is closed for the winter, so we will have our midday meal at nearby Pine Glen Campground, on the banks of Shoal Creek.  

Travel Plans: Meet at the Eastwood McDonald’s on Montclair Road at 7:00 a.m. From there, we will caravan east on I-20 to the Heflin exit (Exit 199). This is a drive of approximately 70 miles. We will regroup at the Hardees for a rest break, and then proceed to the parking lot for the Pinhoti trailhead on FS RD 500, near Coleman Lake to bird for the Crossbills and Red-cockaded Woodpeckers. For those who wish to meet us at the Pinhoti trailhead, take US-78 east from Heflin for 5.7 miles to the Coleman Lake sign (CR-61). Turn left onto CR-61 and proceed 7.6 miles to FS RD 500 (Coleman Lake sign). Turn right onto FS RD 500 and drive for .4 miles to Coleman Lake campground sign. Turn right and continue on FS RD 500 to reach the parking area on the right.  

Please keep in mind that this is a time of change, from late winter to very early spring. Weather conditions can shift from mild, balmy to damp cold. Dress in layers and bring warm jackets, gloves, wind and waterproof outer garments. As this will be a full day, in addition to a picnic, bring drinks and snacks. Have a full tank of gas. Don't forget your camera and binoculars. 

For questions or further information, please call our trip leader Maureen Shaffer 205-822-8728.