Magnolia Springs Landfill is a county landfill and is open Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Proceed to the second gate and enter the landfill. Stop by the office to ask permission to access the birding sites. Bird checklists are available in the office. After checking in, drive straight ahead (east) and proceed up the hill. At the top, turn left (north) and park well off to the side of the road.
A path leads to a viewing platform offering birders a vantage point to thoroughly scan for wintering gulls and other birds. Ninety-nine percent of the gulls utilizing the landfill in winter are comprised of Laughing, Ring-billed, and Herring Gulls, but rarities like Franklin's, Thayer's, Iceland, Lesser Black-backed, and Glaucous Gulls are all additional possibilities. American Pipits (winter), Fish Crows and both vultures are also regular. In January 2009, a Snow Bunting was seen, accounting for the first state record. As you leave the landfill, be sure to check the small ponds on the west side of the entrance road for waterfowl and shorebirds during the winter months.
Note: While visiting the landfill, take care not to block or otherwise interfere with the heavy machinery. Do not enter the pit area for any reason. View birds from the roadside or designated sites only.
Contact Magnolia Springs Landfill
Contact Magnolia Springs Landfill
15140 County Road 49
Summerdale, AL 36580
Service Area
