Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 1
Coastal Alabama
DAUPHIN ISLAND
Dauphin Island is undoubtedly the mecca for birding in Alabama. If you bird only one place
in Alabama, most people would agree that this island must be that place. Here is where huge
numbers of migrants come through both in the spring and in autumn; also, many accidentals
have been seen on Dauphin Island. With a large variety of bird habitats for a barrier island,
this place can provide endless birding opportunities year-round. All of the prime sites for bird-
watching are easily accessible, and the local citizenry has gotten used to seeing people with
binoculars and cars moving very slowly along the quiet streets of the town.
Dauphin Island is reached by two routes. One can drive directly to the island by taking SH
193 south from I-10, at exit 17A, west of Mobile. SH 193 will turn to the east and then resume
its southward route to the island; a formerly direct route from Mobile is no longer possible due
to a washed-out bridge. US 193 will head south along the western edge of Mobile Bay and
then will cross Mississippi Sound over a large bridge to the island. Stopping on the bridge is
not allowed and is unsafe, but if you stop prior to getting on the bridge at the Cedar Point Fish-
ing Pier, look out to the southwest at the series of sand bars in the Sound. You will often see a
variety of wading birds. In particular, look for black skimmers. Often, there is a group of white
pelicans that likes to hang out on one particular sandbar. Once you are on Dauphin Island, SH
193 will pass the docks and several stores and then dead-end into Bienville Boulevard, which
is the main east-west road along the spine of the island. Stopping in the area of the docks can
give views of the sandbars in the nearby waters, and often wading birds and shore birds can be
seen there. The other way to reach the island is to take the ferry from Fort Morgan.
