D'Arbonne National Wildlife Refuge - Red-cockaded Woodpecker Site

D’Arbonne National Wildlife Refuge was established primarily to protect bottomland hardwood forest habitat and provide wintering habitat for migratory waterfowl. Additionally, the refuge provides a habitat for alligators, bald eagles, the little-known Rafinesque's big-eared bat, and the endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker.

Spring is the best season to visit the refuge’s primary Red-cockaded Woodpecker nesting colony. The birds are active first in courtship (February-March) and then foraging on behalf of the nestlings (March-April). A special area is set up specifically for visitors desiring to see the federally-endangered Red-cockaded Woodpeckers (see directions below). There are no amenities besides parking and identification signage. It is not handicapped-accessible.

Aside from woodpeckers, additional bird species include year-round residents such as Carolina Wren, Pine Warbler, and Northern Cardinal. During winter months, additional nearctic species join the residents. These include American Goldfinch, Pine Siskin, Purple Finch, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, and Orange-crowned and Yellow-rumped Warblers.

The powerline option provides opportunities to look for sparrows, raptors, flycatchers, Eastern Bluebirds, and other species that hunt from open perches. Birders must wear hunter orange (vest, attire) when accessing this site during hunting seasons.