NTOS Field Trip – January 25th to Wheeler NWR in Decatur, Alabama

Back by popular demand!  Wheeler hosts one of the largest wintering concentrations of Sandhill Cranes in the world, and it is also home to large numbers of ducks, geese, pelicans, and gulls.  In addition to the hordes of Sandhill Cranes, one of the main targets will be Whooping Cranes from the reestablished Central flyway population that breeds in Wisconsin, several of which typically spend the winter at Wheeler (up to six have been reported this winter as of this writing).  After enjoying the crane show, we will work our way around Wheeler Lake, stopping to scan for waterbirds at several key locations as well as to grab lunch. We will meet at the Wheeler Visitor’s Center at 9:00am.  (Contact information: ms722@bellsouth.net. Please include “NTOS Field Trip” in the subject line.)