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A morning spent exploring the woodlands and fields of Sandy Mush Gamelands for a variety of sparrows and other late-winter species, plus a few early spring arrivals. Mostly easy walking along dirt roads and paths, with minimal steep hikes. Trails may be muddy. Bring good hiking boots and long pants.

The Sandy Mush Game Land in the northern part of Buncombe County have only recently begun to be thoroughly explored for birds and butterflies. The habitats here vary from open, managed cut-over areas to cove and riverine forests down along Sandy Mush and Turkey Creeks, as well as the French Broad River. Though it’ll be early spring, we can will expect to find a nice mix of overwintering species and newly arrived spring residents. Sparrows should still be in good numbers with White-throated, Song, Swamp, Field and Chipping all likely. A few coveys of Northern Bobwhite reside in the fields and occasionally we get to see them. There are numerous American Kestrel nest boxes throughout the game land and we should see a few of these small, beautiful falcons perched on telephone poles and wires, or hovering over the grass looking for prey. Blue-headed Vireos nest here as well and we should hear their sweet songs in the woodlands, while Eastern Meadowlarks should be in full voice in the open areas. Wild Turkeys are common as are Red-tailed, Broad-winged and Red-shouldered Hawks.

As it is spring, there should be a fair amount of singing going on and who knows what surprises we may find in this under-birded part of the county. Spring is an excellent season for butterfly-watching as well and we have recorded some interesting records here, including both Tawny and Hackberry Emperors.

Say ‘goodbye’ to winter and Join us for a spring day of birds and butterflies at this unique birding location!