Rare and Unusual Sightings:

In any given season, rare and unusual sightings abound on Wheeler NWR and in surrounding areas. Fall, winter, and spring are excellent times to find unusual birds while there are usually a few unusual birds that occur during the summer. The Checklist of the Birds of Wheeler NWR lists the birds that occur on Wheeler NWR and the seasons when they occur. Another good resource is the Alabama Ornithological Society (AOS) Checklist. Recent sightings of rare and unusual birds throughout state can be found on the AOS Rare Bird Alert. Staff members at the Visitor Center and Refuge Headquarters can provide current information on refuge birds sightings.

Current Unusal Bird Sighting:

In November of 2005, the Refuge was fortunate to have a Vermillion flycatcher use the White Springs Dewatering Unit as a temporary stop in its yearly migration.

The following picture was taken by Mr. Jerry Green. Refuge staff will keep a watchful eye out to see if our little red friend visits the Refuge again this year.