Yesterday, I led a hike to the Big Frog Wilderness in the Cherokee National Forest. We gathered early Sunday morning at a local Starbucks just off the interstate. Just as we were about to leave, I noticed a bird of prey following some smaller birds. September and October is migration time for birds, both large and small. Birds of prey like Coopers and Sharp-shined Hawks time their migration to coincide with the migration of their prey - smaller birds.
As I noticed the bird, I pointed it out to the group. Initially, with the naked eye, I thought it was a Coopers Hawk, but as it turned, much to my surprise, it was something much more interesting. A Peregrine Falcon! In Chattanooga! At the Starbucks! Now, Peregrine Falcons have nested in Chattanooga for many years, but to see one near the Hamilton Place Mall in a Starbucks parking lot! That is special.
After our nice find, we headed out to hike the Yellow Stand Lead Trail to the Big Frog Trail. All seven of us had a great time. We saw all kinds of wildflowers out on the trail, evidence of Black Bear, and a Blue Ridge Two Lined Salamander in a small seep across the trail. Towards the end of the hike, we heard a Barred Owl calling in the forest. It was wonderful.
We have two more hikes planed for October (11 & 24), and space is still available. Please visit our outings [1] page to find out more information about those hikes. I hope to see you out on the trail!