Field Trip to Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge

Meet at 7:00 AM in the parking lot on the south side of Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel and form carpools.

This will be a joint filed trip with the Virginia Beach Audubon Society. It will be a walking excursion of trails and roadways within the Refuge. Target species include fall migrating warblers, raptors and the full complement of east coast waders. Habitat includes forested trails, marsh overlook, and paved roadway with both brushy grasses and wood clearings on the side. There are significant chances of flyover species to include Bobolink.

The walk is approximately 3.2 miles roundtrip. As an option, we can go up to the observation deck above Battery Winslow, which requires climbing about 50 steps. A 24-hour restroom is available at Hwy 13 rest stop just before you turn on Seaside Road to NWR. A Porta-potti is available in NWR parking lot at the start of the walk before the Visitor Center opens. The Butterfly Trail portion is grassy so expect morning dew on your feet. Bug spray and sunscreen are always advised. After the walk, consider driving 4 miles to Kiptopeke State Park and visit the hawk watch. Mid to late morning thermals tend to be peak times for raptor movements if the winds cooperate.

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Virginia Beach.