The new AGFC moist soil units on Sharp Chapel Rd have become one of the premier spots for waterfowl and shorebird watching within an hour’s drive of Fayetteville. On the morning of Saturday, April 26th, Matt & Josh Matlock will lead a trip to Alma and Mulberry focused on migrating shorebirds. This trip will consist mostly of carpool caravaning with some minimal walking/hiking at various stops throughout to scan for mud and standing water in agricultural plots, moist soil units, open grassland habitat, and ponds. Other expected bird species include hawks, eagles, falcons, terns, grassland birds, and other water birds. This loop has yielded notable bird sightings during prior Spring Migrations such as Godwits, Plovers, Swainson’s Hawk, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Painted Bunting, Bobolink, etc. Please bring/wear sturdy shoes, bug repellent, sunscreen, water, and snacks/lunch. We plan to make a rest stop at a restaurant or gas station.
This Saturday morning trip will depart from Mount Sequoyah at 7:00 AM. Meet Josh & Matt Matlock at Millar Hall at 6:45 AM for a prompt departure. Josh & Matt will lead the carpool down to Alma (~1 hour drive time). Expect to return no later than 1:00 PM.
These directions include a stop at the Alma McDonalds, which is a sort of bird field trip hub for this loop, offering sustenance and clean restrooms.
From Fayetteville to Alma McDonalds, take I-49 South toward Fort Smith. Take exit 20 to merge onto I-40 E toward Alma, then soon after take exit 13 and turn right on US-71 N. McDonald’s is on the right.
GPS locations of possible stops on the route: