We will be looking for Spring migrants and resident birds such as warblers, woodpeckers, raptors, flycatchers, sparrows, finches, and other passerines. The grounds of the Atlanta History Center (AHC) are an interesting mix of natural and created landscapes. There are nine designated gardens collectively named Goizueta Gardens. Two of the individual areas, the Swan House Gardens and the Smith Farm Gardens, are designed to complement the historic interpretation of the buildings they surround. Swan House is a 1920s Italianate mansion; as such, the landscape around it consists predominately of formal elements such as a walled boxwood garden and a cascading fountain. Smith Farm, on the other hand, is an antebellum farmhouse. Accordingly, the surrounding landscape consists of a small flower yard, vegetable gardens, and an area for field crops. It is a particularly good place to see Eastern Bluebirds.
This birding trip is recommended for beginner birders and families with children over 10. Please note that no dogs or strollers are allowed. The walk will cover two-to-three miles of mild hiking terrain, including dirt paths and grass. Hiking shoes, insect repellant, sunscreen and water are recommended; bring binoculars.
Leader: Rob McDonough
Cell contact morning of the walk: 404.754.8159
Directions and Parking
GPS or Google coordinates: 33°50'33.3"N 84°23'09.4"W.
From I-75 S, take Exit 255 (West Paces Ferry Rd.). At the end of the exit ramp, turn left onto West Paces Ferry Rd. Go approximately 2.7 miles. The AHC will be on your right.
From I-75 N or downtown, take the West Paces Ferry Rd (Exit 255). At the end of the exit ramp, turn left onto Northside Pkwy. At the next light, turn right onto West Paces Ferry Rd. Go approximately 2.7 miles. The AHC will be on your right.
From I-85 S, take Exit 88 (Cheshire Bridge/Lenox Rd.). At the end of the exit ramp, turn right onto Lenox Rd. Go approximately 1.9 miles until Lenox intersects with Peachtree Rd. (landmark: Lenox Square Mall). Turn left onto Peachtree Rd. Go approximately 2 miles. At the intersection of Peachtree, Roswell and West Paces Ferry Rds., turn right onto West Paces Ferry Rd. Go through two traffic lights. The AHC will be on your left.
Please park in the deck. We will meet at the entrance to McElreath Hall. This is the building housing the Cherokee Garden Library and the Kenan Research Center; it is located south of the parking deck.
This event is hosted by Atlanta History Center in partnership with Georgia Audubon.
