Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge's Blackwell Swamp's flooded woodland and marsh (Site # 26, Central Loop) can be explored by car, on foot, or by canoe. This extensive area hosts a variety of wetland species including Great Blue and Green herons and Great Egrets. The striking Prothonotary Warblers can be plentiful in the spring when the males are actively singing from every feasible vantage point, in hopes of courting a mate. With numerous dead trees in the area, look for Red-headed and Pileated woodpeckers as they flash their red, white, and black colors in this sea of green.
In early winter mornings, one can hear Great Horned Owls. The swamp can be full of American Coots, rafts of Lesser Scaup, Ring-necked Ducks , Gadwall and other dabblers. A short walk up and down the road can produce White-throated Sparrows, Hermit Thrush, Slate-colored Juncos and other winter visitors.
Contact Wheeler NWR - Blackwell Swamp
Contact Wheeler NWR - Blackwell Swamp
3121 Visitor Center Road
Decatur, AL 35603
Phone: (256) 350-6639
Service Area
