DESCRIPTION: Bowers Park and the wooded areas near the UA Arboretum attract a good variety of birds. These areas are "migrant traps," where birds passing through find these wooded habitats at the city's edge. Bowers Park has paths through nice mature woods, and an area adjacent to the arboretum features more open habitat as a former golf course. We can expect a good variety of fall birds, such as warblers, including Magnolia, American Redstart, and Chestnut-sided warbler. Thrushes should include Wood Thrush and Swainson's.

With a little luck, we may see Blue-Headed Vireo or Philadelphia Vireo. The more open habitat near the arboretum should feature some sparrows, and maybe some surprises around the small ponds there.

LOCATION DETAILS: There are no fees for either location. There should be ample parking lot space available at both locations. We will probably walk around for 2-2.5 hours at each location. There are public restrooms near the parking area of Bower's Park that should be available, and there are restrooms at the UA Arboretum that should be available if anyone needs to access them. Bring snacks, water, and a picnic lunch if you would like to eat together at the UA Arboretum after birding that area. There should be a few picnic tables but you may also want to bring a camping chair with you.

TRAVEL INFORMATION: The meeting place will be the parking area next to the swimming pool at Bower's park, 2101 Bowers Park Drive, Tuscaloosa. after birding there for probably a 2-2.5 hours, we will drive/caravan a short distance (couple of miles) to Harry Pritchett running park parking lot, 4801 Arboretum way, Tuscaloosa.

Accessibility: The Bowers park area will be mostly wide trails through woods, with no significant hills but uneven terrain (like roots or some boulders) at some spots. There are also no real hills near the arboretum area, but generally mowed paths through open areas and a few wooded trail sections.

Trip Leaders: Todd DeVore and Matt Hunter (205-460-9546)

Picture Owner & Rights: Matt Hunter