With more than 300 species of birds in Tennessee, birding is an excellent way to enjoy the great outdoors—whether from your own backyard or a local park.
Birding at Edwin Warner Park
On a crisp Saturday, beginner and experienced birders joined the Federation’s staff naturalist at Edwin Warner Park for a guided birding walk during fall bird migration. After a quick introduction to gauge experience levels and review common migrating bird species, the group set off through prime edge habitat.
Over two hours, participants spotted or heard 30+ species, including summer tanager, downy woodpecker, and magnolia warbler. The white-eyed vireo was the most elusive—its song echoed through the trees all morning, but the bird itself stayed hidden in the thick understory. When seen, this small songbird is unmistakable with its bright white eye ring and yellow “spectacles.”
Why Fall Birding is Tricky
Fall migration brings unique challenges for spotting birds.
- Full foliage. In spring, bare branches make spotting birds easier. By fall, leaves hide birds high in the canopy.
- Duller plumage. Breeding colors fade after summer, so many songbirds trade their bright hues for muted tones that blend into the landscape.
Because of this, fall birders often need to rely on vocalizations and flight patterns rather than visual markings alone.
Upcoming Birding Opportunities
Our next guided birding walk will be December 13, 2025, at Bells Bend Park in Nashville. The event is free, but RSVPs help us plan for the group size.
And starting in 2026, Tennessee Wildlife Federation will launch its new birding program. Through guided walks, workshops, and classes, participants will learn to identify birds by sight and sound, explore bird migration patterns, and discover how to create and support bird habitats on public and private lands. Whether you’re new to bird watching or an experienced birder, this program will offer a great way to learn about Tennessee birds and connect with the outdoors.
Stay tuned for more details and next year’s schedule!
