Birding
False Cape State Park
757-426-7128, FalseCape@dcr.virginia.gov
The park is just south of Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which is managed for migrating birds. This makes False Cape a favorite for many species. The refuge has manmade waterways specifically managed for migratory birds throughout the year. Because access to the park is through the refuge and from North Carolina, guests see many birds along the way and in the park.
Type of birds
In the winter, the refuge raises water levels in the pools, some of which are in False Cape, to provide habitat for wintering waterfowl. Common species to see from November to April in the park include tundra swans, Canada and snow geese, and many ducks including shovelers, mergansers, coots, grebes, black ducks and more.Best time of year to observe
From April through October, the refuge lowers water levels for shore and wading birds. These can include egrets, herons, ibis, yellowlegs and so on. Spring and summer are also good times to see migrating songbirds such as warblers, sparrows, swallows and more.Best places in the park to observe
False Cape has observation platforms on Marsh Ridge Trail and the South Inlet trails.Special birding programs and events
The park holds bird-watching programs throughout the year. Private tours for bird-watching groups are also available.Recent blogs about Birds
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