Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge - Busseltown Unit

Tennessee · Southeast

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge - Busseltown Unit is a productive birding destination in Tennessee, with 222 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

3/2/20261261–2083 Cuba Landing Rd, Waverly US-TN 35.86073, -87.829052 observed

American Black Duck

Anas rubripes

3/1/2026Tennessee River--Lady's Bluff Small Wild Area1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

3/1/2026Tennessee River--Lady's Bluff Small Wild Area2 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

3/1/2026Tennessee River--Lady's Bluff Small Wild Area6 observed

Fish Crow

Corvus ossifragus

3/1/2026Tennessee River--Lady's Bluff Small Wild Area5 observed

Virginia Rail

Rallus limicola

2/28/2026Ag Fields (TN-438 @ Buffalo River)2 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

2/26/2026Lick Creek Farm1 observed

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

2/24/2026Stoll Farm (restricted access, email birdchaserrws@gmail.com)1 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge - Busseltown Unit for birding?
The best months to visit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge - Busseltown Unit for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge - Busseltown Unit?
Notable species at Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge - Busseltown Unit include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge - Busseltown Unit?
Birding at Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge - Busseltown Unit is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge - Busseltown Unit?
Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge - Busseltown Unit offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.