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Site #31
Wheeler NWR - Cave Springs
Central Loop
Description: The Cave Springs Cave has
been popular for thousands of years. The
combination of shelter, fresh water, and abundant food has attracted humans and other wildlife to its safety. The cave's current residents include several thousand Gray Bats, an endangered species whose population stronghold is in northeastern Alabama. Where the springs emerge from the cave, a family of Beavers has built a substantial dam, creating an area of flooded woodland and marsh, perfect for birding. Check this area for Red-headed and Red-bellied woodpeckers, as well as Prothonotary Warblers and the occasional Belted Kingfisher. The deeper water can attract Wood Duck and other waterfowl, especially in the winter.
Directions: From the intersection of I-65 and AL Hwy 67 (Exit 334) near Priceville, AL, go west on Hwy 67 for 0.5 mile. Turn right (north) onto Deere Road and go 0.5 mile. Turn right (east) onto Upper River Road and go 3.5 miles to a paved road on the left (north). Turn left onto the paved road and go 0.1 mile. Cave Springs Swamp is to the right. Cave Springs Cave is located about 100 yards to the southeast.
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GPS Coordinates: N 34.5470, W 86.8510
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Fee: Free
Amenities: Parking, Hiking
Contact Info:
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS)
Wheeler NWR
2700 Refuge Headquarters Rd.
Decatur, AL 35603
(256) 353-7243
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