Sandy Head Ostrich Farm

Located in eastern Tazewell County, not terribly far from Burkes Garden, this hotspot is a working farm focused on sustainably raising ostriches, emus, and chickens. Thus far, this site has been little-visited by birders, with only three eBird checklists accounting for a roster of 9 species as of August 2020. Despite this, the farm is included as one of the sites on the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resource’s Birding & Wildlife Trail; read their site description here. The farm has frontage along Clear Fork Creek and offers a mix of habitats included marsh, grassland, and woods. Current information suggests that the site is open to visitors and that the owner is happy to provide tours and allow birding access. We invite anyone birding Tazewell County to pay this site a visit, explore its birding potential, and report back to us on both the current state of access and the birding opportunities to be had!

eBird Hotspot: Sandy Head Ostrich Farm

—Matt Anthony, August 2020

The Cove

In summer and spring, you can encounter flocks of Red-winged Blackbird, Eastern Meadowlark, Eastern Bluebird, Barn Swallow and American Goldfinch. Also, look for American Kestrel, Bald Eagle, Blue Heron and Wild Turkey. The open grasslands are also excellent habitat for Grasshopper Sparrow during the breeding season and Dickcissel in summer. In winter, look for patrolling Northern Harrier and Short-eared Owl.

Notable records of species in The Cove include Merlin, Great Horned Owl, Greater/Lesser Yellowlegs, 18 species of warblers, 9 species of sparrows and Bobolinks.

Accessibility: At 2400 feet elevation, The Cover is one of the last remaining valleys expressly devoted to agriculture. Used primarily to graze cattle, sheep and horses, the land supports crops of alfalfa, corn and other grain. Grassland and open fields are abundant. With four possible entrances to the Cove, the first choice by birders is Route 609 (Wardell Road). After passing through a residential area, one encounters the beginning view of pasturelands. Continuing on an elevated route you find an expanded view of active farm lands.

En route is the volunteer fire department, the old Cove Elementary School. Take the next right onto Rt. 608 (Cove Road). Thistle Cove Farm is the first home on the left and serves as the gateway to The Cove.

eBird Hotspot: The Cove

—Clancey Deel

Falls Mills Lake

Parking areas are provided for the club’s fishermen, so giving them the right of way is a must. Parking on provided areas and graveled roadways is also a must. Spotting scope is recommended. October through March provide an opportunity to see Snow Goose, Ross’s Goose, Wood Duck, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Ring-necked Duck, Ruddy Duck, Horned Grebe, American Coot and three species of mergansers. Canada Geese, Mallards, Ring-necked Ducks and the American Coots are common during the above mentioned months. Notable sightings are American Bittern, Black Scoter (the second accepted Mountains and Valleys record), Tundra Swan, Cooper’s Hawk, Bald Eagle and Bonaparte’s Gull

Accessibility: Falls Mills is located in the northeast part of Tazewell County via Falls Mills Road (Rt. 102) near the town of Bluefield. The lake is located on state secondary route 643. Falls Mills Lake was built by Norfolk and Western Railroad in the early 1900’s to provide water for their steam engines. It is currently maintained and stocked by the Falls Mills Fishing Club. Summer birding can be difficult because of the  influx of fishermen. Easy access by Mud Fork Road and state maintained (graveled) road allow for great views of migrating and winter resident waterfowl. Route 643 (Mud Fork Road) meanders through less populated areas that provide great birding opportunities.

Owner/Manager & Official Website: Falls Mills Fishing Club

eBird Hotspot: Falls Mills Lake

—Clancey Deel