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 Large flocks of ducks are a common site during the bald eagle/waterfowl tour at Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge. This year's tour will be held 2-5 p.m. Jan. 10. [Click to enlarge] |
It is the time of year when wildlife, especially waterfowl, are present in large numbers. Once again, the Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge at Duck River Bottoms will open up closed areas for one afternoon only. The public is invited to get a glimpse into the heart of the refuge at the height of waterfowl migration.
The refuge plans to open a new auto tour loop to the public 2-5 p.m. Jan. 10 to view waterfowl and wildlife at the Duck River Bottoms, on the refuge just south of New Johnsonville. These areas are normally closed during waterfowl season to limit disturbance to the visiting waterfowl. The roads will be open to the public for one afternoon only to offer a rare glimpse into the heart of the refuge during waterfowl season.
During the winter, the refuge biologist will periodically estimate the numbers of waterfowl. During the Dec. 22 aerial survey, the biologist estimated the number of waterfowl on the refuge to be 37 percent above the 10-year average. Along with waterfowl, the refuge offers opportunities to see bald eagle, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, many species of hawks, great blue herons and great egrets, and many other kinds of wildlife. Bring the whole family and enjoy a scenic afternoon, compliments of the Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge and Friends of Tennessee Refuge.
Refuge staff will be available at the entrance on Refuge Lane to hand out maps for the self-guided auto tour route. The Friends of the Refuge will also offer complimentary hot apple cider. Several staff and refuge volunteers will be stationed along the route with spotting scopes to allow the public better views of waterfowl and wildlife. The staff also will explain bird identification, refuge operations and management, and answer questions.
The refuge at Duck River Bottoms is about 4 miles south of New Johnsonville. From Highway 70 in New Johnsonville, turn south on Long Street and continue for 2.6 miles to the intersection of old State Route 1 and Long Street. Turn left on State Route 1, go for 0.2 miles, then make a sharp right on Hickman Road. Follow Hickman Road for 0.6 miles to Refuge Lane. Turn left on Refuge Lane into the refuge. Signs will be posted. To enhance viewing opportunities bring a pair of binoculars, if available, and remember to dress warmly for winter weather. If you have questions about the waterfowl tour, please call the Paris Headquarters at 731-642-2091, or e-mail Joan Stevens at Joan_Stevens@fws.gov.
Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge, encompassing 51,358 acres of water, forests, farmland and grasslands, is located on and around Kentucky Lake. Established in 1945, the refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service as an important resting and feeding area for wintering waterfowl and other migratory birds. The refuge's three units, the Duck River, Big Sandy and Busseltown stretch along 65 miles of the Tennessee River. The Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge is one of 548 refuges nationwide under the management of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.