Hatchie NWR Site Directions: From I-40, take exit 56 and travel south on Hwy 76 for 2.5 miles the refuge headquarters. Turn left into the refuge.
Access is available primarily from roads throughout the refuge. There are no major driving loops, however access is available via many spur roads off Hwy 76. Caution must be taken when roads are wet as they can be treacherous.
Lat-Long: 35.49958, -89.25885, Hatchie NWR Headquarters
Lat-Long: 35.466472,-89.15588, Eddy lake area, east end of the NWR
Hours: daylight hours
Seasonality: daylight hours and depending on flooding of the Hatchie River
Fees: none
Site Description: Bottomland hardwood forests are the primary habitat type found at Hatchie NWR. Open water in the form of several moderate sized lakes provide habitat for many waterfowl and shorebirds. Obtain a park map from the refuge office and ask for current access and highlights to observe.
Wildlife to Watch: Prothonotary Warbler, American Redstart, and Acadian Flycatcher are abundant nesting birds. Swainson's Warbler and Cerulean Warbler are uncommon in summer. Barred Owls and Red-shouldered Hawks are visible throughout the year. American Wigeon, Mallards, and American Black Ducks are common in winter, while Hooded Merganser and Wood Duck are common nesting birds. Deer and turkey are common when water levels are low. Sparrows are common on roadsides in winter. River otter may be seen by lucky observers.
NOTE: Please refer to Refuge personnel about hunting seasons and public access (safe) dates. Access dates vary by site.
For more information:
Birds of Hatchie NWR from eBird submissions
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service web page
Submit your data to eBird and help us add to the list of birds seen at this site
Be sure to check out our Safety Tips page for important information regarding viewing wildlife in these areas.