This location, where Dutchtown Road crosses Ellis Creek, is situated at the junction of a tract of woods to the north and an area of open agricultural fields to the south. As such, it has a nice mix of habitats that can yield a variety of species. Thus far, much of the coverage at this spot has been in the spring and summer months, when it is as good a spot as any to find many woodland breeders. In the woods to the north, listen for species including Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Acadian Flycatcher, Eastern Wood-Pewee, Yellow-throated and Red-eyed Vireos, Northern Parulas, and Ovenbirds, among others. The proximity of more open agricultural habitat means this is also a good spot to hear or see open country species such as White-eyed Vireo and Eastern Meadowlark, among others. However, the main attraction here is the creek itself, which offers a nice riparian floodplain with ample vegetation backing up to a larger tract of woodland. While standing at the bridge, listen for Yellow-throated Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, and Kentucky Warbler.
Accessibility: Dutchtown Road is a public road that experiences relatively low traffic. Nonetheless, birders should still take care to bird this location safely. Coming from the north, the Ellis Creek bridge is approximately 0.3 miles from Holly Farms Road (307), while to the south Dutchtown Road continues for about 6.2 miles before joining up with US 460. Approaching from the north is best, as there is a small pull-off on the north side of the bridge where you can easily and safely park a car. Birding this spot mostly involves simply getting out the car to look and listen, though you may wish to walk out onto the bridge for a better chance at seeing or hearing a Kentucky Warbler or Louisiana Waterthrush. There is enough of a shoulder on the road that you can do this safely.
eBird Hotspot: Dutchtown Road--Ellis Creek Bridge
—Matt Anthony