Looking to Beat the Winter Blues? How about a Bird Watching Expedition in Outer Banks
The Outer Banks is a haven for nearly 400 species of birds and a sort of heaven for those who enjoy observing them. Bird watching is enjoyable throughout the year, and while it gets a bit chilly out, it is especially good during the fall and winter as birds migrate through the area.
An area that is especially known for birding is the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, located on the north end of Hatteras Island. Whether you decide to explore on foot, or by boat, you can find thousands of snow geese, Canada geese, tundra swans and 25 species of duck during the winter. Several shorebird nesting areas and wading bird rookeries are located on the refuge. Endangered and threatened species that you may see include: peregrine falcons and piping plovers.
You can download an comprehensive bird list, including seasons of visibility here: http://www.fws.gov/southeast/pubs/PeaIsland_birdlist.pdf
To make the most of the experience, here are some things to put on your birding checklist:
quality pair of binoculars
digital camera
thermos full of hot chocolate
windbreaker
water (important during the summer months!)
sun protection items (sunblock, sunglasses, wide brimmed hat)
journal to record your sitings
tripod
ziploc bag (to protect map/valuables)
The Outer Banks of North Carolina, Breath, Relax, Enjoy!
