Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a federally protected tidal salt marsh along the coast of Delaware. With over 16,000 acres of marsh, freshwater, and upland habitats, the refuge is home to a stunning variety of wildlife, including hundreds of species of birds. It’s a nationally recognized birding spot and has been designated as a Globally Important Bird Area — a great place to pull out your binoculars and see what you can spot!
Killens Pond State Park
This 66-acre millpond off the Murderkill River and surrounded by hardwood forests is home to many species of birds and hosts migratory birds throughout the year as well, including conservation concern species like the Prothonotary Warbler and the Scarlet Tanager.
Fork Branch Nature Preserve
The Fork Branch Nature Preserve is part of the headwaters of the St. Jones River. Featuring a stream corridor through a wooded area, and home to several rare and threatened plant species, this preserve is also a great isolated spot near Dover for bird watchers to view many of the local and migratory species.
St. Jones Reserve
Part of the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve (DNERR), the St. Jones Reserve is located on the north shore of the St. Jones River and is part of the Delaware Bayshore Byway. The reserve is open to the public and the two-mile nature trail provides ample opportunities for bird watching.
Blackbird State Forest
Blackbird State Forest covers over 5,000 acres and is the northernmost state forest in Delaware. With 40 miles of trails and 10 different trail options for all activity levels (including a paved trail for wheelchair accessibility), Blackbird is a great spot to snap a few shots of native Delaware birds.
Abbott’s Mill Nature Center
This 200-year-old preserved grist mill sits alongside lush forests, swamp, meadows, and streams full of wildlife. A designated bird viewing area is located by the nature center, and self-guided walking trails also provide opportunities to view the many bird species that have made their home near Abbott’s Mill.
DuPont Nature Center
DuPont Nature Center is one of the Delaware Bay’s great locations to view the more than 130 species of birds, fish, shellfish, and more that live and migrate to the shoreline. (open seasonally)
Milford Art Stroll
For a slight change of scenery, but with plentiful bird watching opportunities, visit the Milford Art Stroll for a quaint tour through this artistic village’s outdoor art displays along the Mispillion River.
Little Creek Wildlife Area
Climb above the wildlife and birding viewing tower to get a birds eye view of Little Creek's marsh lands and habitats at Little Creek Wildlife Area. (conservation access pass required)
We recommend calling ahead or visiting each location's website for latest information on closures and openings.