Little River Canyon Mouth Park is situated at the lowest point in Little River Canyon that is accessible by car. This compact park borders the rushing Little River, where you may observe Yellow-throated Warblers and Northern Parulas in trees along the banks from late March to September. The trees bordering the river offer especially good birding during migration and in dry spells, when a wide variety of birds come to the river to drink. Look for Louisiana Waterthushes along the river from spring to early fall, and for Belted Kingfishers throughout the year. There are often Winter Wrens present from October to March. From this open vantage point, check the skies above the canyon and the river; you may see Red-tailed Hawks, and Black and Turkey Vultures throughout the year. Broad-winged Hawks breed in the area from spring to fall, and you can find almost any of the migratory birds of prey in spring and especially fall. Bald Eagles are regular visitors, and Golden Eagle, rarely seen in Alabama, can occasionally be seen in the park.

The picnic areas have scattered hardwood trees, and these are best birded in spring and fall for the wide variety of migrants they may attract. Good birding opportunities also can be found as you leave the picnic area and survey the dense second-growth woodlots beyond as you work your way up-river. Look for White-eyed Vireos, Common Yellowthroats, Indigo Buntings, and even some Wood Thrushes, Yellow-breasted Chats, and Hooded and Prairie Warblers in the warm months. These birds give way to Song, White-throated, and Fox Sparrows, as well as some Hermit Thrushes and House Wrens in winter. Continue upstream along a narrow stream-side path to enjoy extensive views of the river and the steep, wooded canyon slopes. There are Pileated Woodpeckers in the larger woods up the hill.

Although the gate to the park only allows entry during daylight hours, the clearings near the entrance road are great for spotting Whip-poor-wills, Chuck-will's-widows, and Eastern Screech-Owls at dawn and dusk. The park is a popular daypark for swimming, hiking and family adventures.

Don't miss a visit to nearby Little River Canyon Scenic Drive for excellent vistas of the canyon'and lots of soaring birds.

Contact Little River Canyon Mouth Park

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Listed in:

• Ecotourism