The Binocular Site
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, Delaware
This protected area is located towards the North of Delaware on the Delaware Bay, and boasts one the largest expanses of unaltered tidal salt marsh in the mid-Atlantic.
The park now known as Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge was originally established in 1937, when it was recognized as a vital wildlife haven and breeding ground. Here migratory birds rest during their journey across the Atlantic Flyway, from Canada down to the Gulf of Mexico.
The refuge is predominantly made up of the tidal salt marsh, but also offers some inland fresh water pools, brush, and timbered swamps. Around 350 species of birds are known to habitate the area, and Bombay Hook is best known for its wintering flock of Greater Snow Geese.
On the wetlands you can expect to see a great variety of waterfowl and wading birds including Ruddy Turnstones, Pied-billed Grebes, and Blue-winged Teals. Late May sees huge flocks of Dunlin arrive to feast on the eggs of horseshoe crabs, for which the area is also well known.
The Delaware state bird is the Blue Hen Chicken and you can find a checklist for birding in Delaware here.
Photo credit to Larry Wilder, used with permission under the creative commons license. You can learn more about the wildlife, habitat, and recreation opportunities of the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge here.
If you've visited Bombay Hook, please take the time to share your experience and any tips or insight you have about this Delaware birding location below.
Check out more birdwatching spots.
Average User Rating
This national refuge is a bird-watching paradise. Located on the Delaware River, it is a major stop on any migratory flight plan and each time of the year has its own rewards. Regularly planned outings provide a great overview to keep you coming back! - Larry W
OK Ruddy Turnstone is not likely to be seen at Bombay Hook. Just not the right habitat for Turnstones. Along rocky shores you can find them (Port Mahon at Little Creek for example, assuming the road is ok.)
Add Your Own Review