Field Trip Schedule and Descriptions

Field Trip Descriptions

Trip 1: Woodlake

Enjoy a diversity of stops within the private residential golf community of Woodlake, which surrounds Lake Surf, the largest body of water in Moore County. Flooding from Hurricane Matthew created a hole in the dam, and the lake has drained, leaving it mostly mudflats and small pools. We will look for early migrating shorebirds, and also visit upland hardwood and pine stands for migrant passerines. The group will check the marsh behind the dam for Bald Eagle and breeding species such as Green Heron, Pileated Woodpecker, Yellow-throated Vireo and Prothonotary Warbler. We will watch for large mammals such as Coyote, Grey Fox, Bobcat, River Otter, Beaver and Muskrat that frequent the area.

Restrooms are available at a private residence where there will be a stop as well as just outside the main gate. The group should be back at the hotel by noon.

Trip 2: Slate Road & Camp Mackall

Join Fort Bragg Biologist, Alan Schultz for a guided tour of habitats around Camp Mackall. The installation is a satellite training area of Ft. Bragg with pine savannas, bottomland hardwoods, and early successional scrubland for training. It is here, where the Army's elite Special Forces train, that Lark Sparrows historically have bred. These areas are subject to military training and therefore generally off limits to public access. There are open areas of Longleaf Pine and wiregrass where we may find Northern Bobwhite, Loggerhead Shrike, Red-cockaded Woodpecker and Brown-headed Nuthatch. The bottomland habitat could produce Wood Duck, Red-headed Woodpecker, Northern Parula and perhaps Swainson's Warbler. A beaver pond may harbor Green Heron, Belted Kingfisher, and Wood Duck. We will also check out a roadside population of the Federally Endangered Michaux's Sumac. There will be several stops with short periods of walking at each.

Restroom facilities available. The trip will end at noon.

Trips 3 & 14: Hobby Field & Horse Country

We will head to 'horse country' on the eastern edge of Southern Pines and focus on open-country birds. First stop will be Hobby Field, an area recently acquired by the Sandhills Area Land Trust. This seventy-acre site has been home to, among other things, a pair of Scissor-tailed Flycatchers the past three summers. On our hike around the perimeter of the field, we also expect to see Grasshopper Sparrow, Chipping Sparrow, Eastern Meadowlark, Red-headed Woodpecker, Eastern Bluebird and perhaps a Loggerhead Shrike. Next, we will take a walk into the adjacent Walthour-Moss Foundation property. On this 4,000 acre, fire-managed site, we will find birds typical of Longleaf Pine like Pine Warbler, Brown-headed Nuthatch, Bachman's Sparrow, and Red-cockaded Woodpecker. We should encounter species associated with mixed pine hardwood such as Summer Tanager, Acadian Flycatcher and Red-eyed Vireo and perhaps Red-shouldered Hawk. The trip will also include stops at a few nearby farms to look for species typical of early successional vegetation as well as Sandhills drains. If we are lucky, we may see Northern Bobwhite, Wild Turkey or even members of our breeding American Kestrel population. Bring plenty to drink and comfortable walking shoes. There will be a restroom stop. We depart at 8 and return to the hotel by noon.

Trips 4 & 17: Weymouth Woods State Nature Preserve

Walking about a mile of the loop trails through typical Sandhill streamhead drains, we will look for flocks of migrant flycatchers, thrushes and warblers. Songs of Blue-headed Vireo and Bachman's Sparrow, which breed at the preserve, should be heard. There will also be the opportunity to learn about the breeding groups of Red-cockaded Woodpeckers at the park this season. Fox Squirrels are more active this time of year, so look for family groups foraging in the woods. The group will also get a good look at the newest changes to the creek bottom as a result of our resident beaver's winter work. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera - there could be some good photo opportunities. The program will be over about 11a.m.

Trip 5: Carvers Creek State Park - Long Valley Farm

We will visit one of the state's newest parks, Carvers Creek SP, which includes the historical Long Valley Farm, northwest of Fayetteville. The farm was the bequest of the conservation-minded James Stillman Rockefeller in 2004 and includes the family's winter home, an old millpond, and other farm structures that are in the National Register of Historical Places. The property provides a mix of farmland, pasture, mixed forest, and Longleaf Pine communities adjacent to Ft. Bragg. We will explore healthy, fire-maintained Longleaf Pine communities, a mature cypress-gum swamp, and wet meadows that support carnivorous plants like pitcher plants and sundews. Fox Squirrel has been seen on the property as well as Bachman's Sparrow, Red-cockaded Woodpecker and Loggerhead Shrike. There is an established Purple Martin colony adjacent to the family's old home. Birding potential at this site is still largely unknown, but expect a variety from Pine Warbler and Brown-headed Nuthatch to Great Crested Flycatcher, Prairie Warbler and Blue Grosbeak. There are restrooms at the park visitor's center. The group will be back at the hotel by noon.

Trip 6: Prescribed Burning

You will have the unique opportunity to join park staff at Weymouth Woods State Nature Preserve for an up-close look at how a prescribed burn is prepared and conducted. Participants will measure weather parameters, and if conditions are favorable, staff will burn a small area. The program will last about two hours.

Trip 7: Bird Photography

Join Deborah Regula and learn basic techniques for beautiful images of birds. Deb is a local award winning photographer who has been capturing a variety of species digitally for a decade. The group will work the area close to the WEWO Visitor's Center, as well as the bird feeding station, looking for a variety of photo opportunities. Even if you are familiar with the process, you may pick up pointers on composition, improving focus, depth of field, and overall picture quality. This workshop will last about two hours.

Trip 8: Red-cockaded Woodpecker Nesting Ecology

Join local woodpecker biologist Kerry Brust to learn about the unique ecology of this native endangered species. Hear about the history of woodpecker conservation efforts in the Sandhills. Field techniques used for monitoring of Red-cockaded Woodpeckers during the breeding will be demonstrated. The program will last about two hours.

Trips 9 & 24: Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center

Howell Woods is located approximately 75 miles east of Southern Pines in Johnston County along the Neuse River. It is a large (2800 acre) property with a variety of habitats from open fields to bottomland hardwoods. There are extensive trails throughout and a number of streams and ponds as well as the river. We will spend some time viewing the exhibits at the Visitor's Center (where there are restroom facilities). One of the highlights should be seeing Mississippi Kites; at least one pair breeds on the property during the summer. Individuals are frequently seen soaring over the fields while searching for large insects. Be prepared to see a wide variety of species including Green Heron, Red-headed Woodpecker, Eastern Kingbird, Wood Thrush, Indigo Bunting, Yellow-throated Vireo, Kentucky Warbler, Swainson's Warbler, and Ruby-throated Hummingbird. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes since there is some relief along the trails; however, the walking will not be too strenuous. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch. The group should be back at the hotel by 5 p.m.

Trip 10: Sandhills Game Land

The Sandhills Game Land boasts 60,000 acres of well-managed Longleaf Pine communities, all open to the public. Join longtime local birder Susan Campbell to visit some of the birding hotspots within and immediately adjacent to SGL, 30 minutes south of our hotel. Most of the species commonly found in xeric and mesic upland Longleaf Pine communities should be seen. In addition to searching for Bachman's Sparrow and Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Susan will discuss how the state is gradually restoring the Game Land's forests to their original state. There will be stops in the Bird Dog Field Trial area to look for such species as Field Sparrow, Indigo Bunting, Blue Grosbeak and Yellow-breasted Chat. If we are lucky, we may see one of the locally breeding Mississippi Kites. In addition, we will visit the McKinney Lake Fish Hatchery where we may find lingering water birds, or even spot a foraging Bald Eagle. A stop may also be made along Drowning Creek to search for flocks of migrants. There will be a restroom break along the way, but be sure to bring lunch. We will return to the hotel by 3 p.m.

Trip 11: Diggs Tract & more

Participants of this trip will accompany Bruce Sorrie and Harry LeGrand, retired botanist and zoologist with the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, to two very different destinations near Rockingham, Richmond County. The first, the Diggs Tract, is a recent acquisition by NCWRC. It has hilly piedmont-type terrain fronting the nutrient-rich, brownwater Pee Dee River. We will make a 4.5 mile drive through oak-pine woodlands, hardwood slopes, and regenerating clear-cuts, with stops for birds. The big attraction is the river corridor with its mature floodplain forests, easily reaching 120 feet tall. Adjacent slopes support mature beech-oak-hickory forest. The uplands should produce Yellow-breasted Chat, Prairie Warbler and Indigo Bunting, with Prothonotary Warbler, Northern Parula, Kentucky Warbler, Hooded Warbler, and Acadian Flycatcher along the river. However, there are likely to be good numbers of migrants coming up the river, with the chance of some shorebirds, cormorants, terns or gulls in the mix. In recent years Bald Eagles have nested nearby.

The second stop has not yet been named, but likely will be a site within the Sandhills Game Land. There we will check out longleaf pine communities (uplands and streamhead) for Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Bachman's Sparrow, and Brown-headed Nuthatch, as well as some spiffy plants.

Everyone should pack a lunch. Restrooms are available at a gas station between our 2 major stops. Group will be back at the hotel by 5 p.m.

Trip 12 & 25: Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge

We will travel southwest an hour to Anson County, home of the Pee Dee NWR. Famous for its wintering waterfowl and nationally significant floodplain forest, PDNWR has much to offer. Although most waterfowl will have departed to northern nesting grounds, we will likely see Wood Duck, Great Blue Heron, Green Heron, possibly Anhinga, Red-shouldered Hawk, and forest passerines such as Wood Thrush, Prothonotary, Kentucky, Northern Parula, and Hooded Warblers, American Redstart. We will drive and walk on dike roads and walk on dry boardwalks, with short walks into the forest. The new visitor's center features excellent displays and clean restrooms. Bring lunch and water. The group should return to the hotel by 5 p.m.

Trip 15: Auman Lake and West End

This large reservoir in western Moore County offers the possibility of lingering waterfowl and Double-crested Cormorant, as well as possibility of Bald Eagle and Osprey. Historically the lake has been a magnet to assorted migrating ducks, herons, egrets, gulls and even White Pelicans (in 2017). Spring birding potential at this site is relatively unknown given that it (like Woodlake) is a gated community. But we believe it is full of promise! Near West End we will visit Lighterwood Farm, where the Wimberley family has lived and managed the land for 150 years. Jesse, a well-known local conservationist will guide us around the property. We will experience fire-managed longleaf pine uplands, streamhead pocosins, and a beaver pond. En route we will check out a few spots for Indigo Bunting, Blue Grosbeak, Yellow-breasted Chat, and others. There will be a restroom stop between sites. We will return to the hotel by noon.

Trip 16: All American Trail.

This is an easy walk on a firm surface (but not paved), level for most of the way. The All American Trail hugs the perimeter of Fort Bragg for many miles and we will see firsthand how the longleaf pine community has been restored with controlled burns. Resident birds, including Red-cockaded Woodpecker, will be featured, along with nesting migratory species. The trail is handicapped accessible so can accommodate wheelchairs. Note our relaxed departure time of 8:30 a.m. We will return to the hotel by noon.

Trip 18: Hummingbirds

This is your chance to ask questions about hummingbird ecology and feeding in North Carolina. The group will observe Ruby-throated Hummingbirds up close as they are banded as part of ongoing research at the visitor's center. Don't forget your camera (and be sure it is charged up)! It is possible that a few lucky participants may even have the chance to release any hummingbirds that are trapped. The program will end around 3:30 p.m. or when the hummers thin out at the feeders. Susan Campbell, who is a Seasonal Naturalist at the park and has been working with hummingbirds for 20 years, will be our leader.

Trip 19: Bees & Butterflies

On this hike we will be in search of flying critters without feathers. There will be an assortment of bees, butterflies as well as dragon and damselflies along the way. It will almost certainly be an opportunity to sharpen your Duskywing and Cloudywing identification skills. These species are plentiful along the trails at Weymouth Woods. Hoary-edged Skippers may also be fairly common at this time of year. In addition, we may encounter Pearly Eye as well as American Copper. Watch for Twin-spotted Spiketail, Blue Corporal, Common Sandragon and maybe even a Springtime Farmer. The group should certainly see an Ebony Jewelwing or two as well. The program will last about two hours.

Trip 20: Wildflowers

The winding trails of Weymouth Woods will take us through several types of upland Sandhills habitats in search of local spring specialties such as blooming pitcher plants, sundews, Carolina Wild Indigo, Common Goat's-rue, Dwarf Locust, Slender Roseling, Carolina Sandwort, and Tread Softly. The terrain will be good, but be prepared to get close to dense vegetation—long pants and long sleeves are encouraged. The walk will be approximately two hours long. Our guide will be Terry Sharpe, retired biologist and local expert on the local flora.

Trip 21: Southern Pines & Pinehurst

We will walk along the boundary of the historic Moore County Airport to look for Grasshopper Sparrow, Horned Lark, and other grassland species. Explore trails at Southern Pines Reservoir Park and Sandhills Community College for migrants and early breeders among the expanse of Longleaf Pines, flowering trees, and wetland vegetation. We may even glimpse a Fox Squirrel or two! Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and long pants since you may be walking through extensive grassy and damp areas. There are restroom opportunities along the way. The trip will be led by the McCloys: both David and Michael who have birded these areas for many years—and will end at noon.

Trip 22: Raven Rock State Park

We will travel to Raven Rock State Park northeast of Sanford, in the lower piedmont in Harnett County. We will stroll the spectacular half mile long bluffs along the Cape Fear River, surrounded by pine-hardwoods where neotropical migrants are often plentiful. Extensive stands of Mountain Laurel should be in full bloom. Woodland birding in the park often turns up mixed flocks with unexpected species in the spring such as Wilson's Warbler. Down by the river is a floodplain forest of tall hardwoods with Parula Warbler, Hooded Warbler, American Redstart, and Acadian Flycatcher. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes since there is quite a bit of relief along the trails; however, the walking will not be too strenuous. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch. The group should be back at the hotel by 4 p.m.

Trip 23: Deep River and Northern Moore County

In stark contrast to the Longleaf Pine habitats of southern Moore county are the hardwood forests and bottomlands of the Deep River corridor in the piedmont of northern Moore. Nutrient-rich soils produce forests of imposing heights—120 feet or more. We will hike through one floodplain forest in search of Hooded and Kentucky Warblers, American Redstart, Acadian Flycatcher, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, and Wood Thrush. Adjacent rocky slopes and creeks should have Louisiana Waterthrush, Broad-winged Hawk, Great Crested Flycatcher, and both species of tanagers. Enroute we will make stops at pastures, clearcuts, and semi-open habitats for Yellow-breasted Chat, Eastern Kingbird, Prairie Warbler, Field Sparrow, both vultures, and Red-tailed Hawk. Bring lunch and drinks. If time permits, a visit to the historical House in the Horseshoe and its hayfields. Our leader will be Bruce Sorrie and Harry LeGrand, both birders and botanists. There are no facilities on this route, except in Carthage and at the House in the Horseshoe. Back at hotel by 4 p.m.

Trip 26: Lumber River Kayak Trip

Looking for something a bit different? Spend the day on the chalk banked Lumber River in a kayak and bird along eight miles of the only blackwater river in NC to be designated as a National Wild and Scenic River by the US Department of the Interior. The trees found in the floodplain swamp surrounding the river, including Bald Cypress, Tupelo, Water Elm, River Birch, and Tulip Poplar, lend to a remote feel and provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Birds in the area include Barred Owls, Great Blue Heron, Belted Kingfishers, and Prothonotary Warblers, as well as possible migrants. Non-bird species could include the White-tailed Deer, Beaver, and, if we are lucky, even Black bear and Northern River Otter. You can bring your own kayak or rent one for $35, which includes transportation of the boat and the kayaker/birder to and from the river. Pack a lunch as we will be on the river for the day. This will be a full day trip. The river is less than 45 minutes from area hotels.

Trip 27: Boyd Tract

A short drive from the Weymouth Woods visitor's center is a protected area of old growth longleaf pine. It includes the oldest known longleaf anywhere—475 years!—as well as many other veterans. Our guide will inform us of the history of how this forest became protected and will explain the challenges of maintaining such an ancient stand of trees. It will be a very unique and informative hike. We will return to the visitor's center by 11 a.m.

Trip 28: Rarity Round-up

This trip will revisit locations birded earlier in the weekend in order to relocate noteworthy species seen earlier in the weekend. Destinations will be based on the collective interest of the group. Exact route will be the leader's choice. Trip will conclude by lunchtime.

Meeting Notes

• All trips are limited to 15 people.
• Please ensure you bring a lunch and drinks with you for full-day trips and snacks and drinks for half-day trips.
• Please note that some field trips depart from the hotel, while others depart from Weymouth Woods Visitor's Center. Please plan accordingly. Most trips carpool to minimize the number of vehicles; if you have room or wish to ride with other participants, please let your field trip leader know.
• The Sandhills Game Land trip will require higher-clearance vehicles, due to soft sand and high road-crowns. SUVs are preferred.
• And finally, it will be turkey season at meeting time, so it is suggested that you bring a brightly colored hat along. A number of our trip destinations are public lands that are open to hunting, and our leaders will steer clear of hunters. But nonetheless, it's a good idea for folks to be somewhat more 'visible' as we venture out into the woods—just in case.