Birding
York River State Park
757-566-3036, YorkRiver@dcr.virginia.gov
York River State Park is a year-round birding destination where visitors can spot bald eagles, osprey, kestrels, herons, egrets, wood ducks and seasonal songbirds.
Type of birds
The park attracts bald eagles, osprey, kestrels, great blue herons, great egrets, wood ducks and many other species. Visit eBird for a list of bird observations at the park.Best time of year to observe
Birding is good year-round. Those with spotting scopes can catch ducks, gulls, bald eagles and ospreys during winter months. During summer, there are many colorful warblers and other songbirds.Best places in the park to observe
The park has no viewing platforms but check out Woodstock Pond for the Heron Rockery in the spring. Osprey can be seen behind the office, on a nesting platform in the York River, late winter/early spring. The planted wildflower gardens around the day use area are also prime bird areas.Special birding programs and events
The park offers various nature programs about birds. The Owl Prowl Hike is a visitor favorite.Recent blogs about Birds
- A treasure in our own backyard: Sweet Run State Park
- 5 things to experience at Kiptopeke State Park
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- 5 things to experience at Mason Neck State Park
- Birding festival 1st weekend in May at Hungry Mother honors longtime volunteer Randy Smith
- More recent blogs about Birds.
