Aug 29: Bombay Hook NWR (SOLD OUT)

Semipalmated Sandpipers, photo courtesy of Frode Jacobsen.

August is the peak month for southbound shorebird migration along the Delaware Bayshore and there is no better place to experience the phenomenon than Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge.  Thousands of shorebirds, of up to twenty species or more, from tiny peeps to American Avocets and of every size and shape in between can be found in the refuge during the dog days of summer.  We should also see large numbers of herons, egrets and ibises as they gather in large feeding flocks prior to heading south in the fall.  With luck we may find Marbled and Hudsonian Godwit, American Golden-Plover, Ruff, Wilson’s Phalarope and White and White-faced Ibis among the more commonly seen species.

Summer birding at Bombay Hook comes with its own special challenges.  There is no shade on the wildlife drive and it can get very hot in August.  Even when there is a breeze, hungry biting flies can be bothersome.  Lightweight long pants and long-sleeved shirts will keep all but the most persistent greenheads at bay.  Bring drinking water to remain hydrated.  Four dollar refuge entrance fee, or Federal Duck Stamp required for entry.

Trips are limited to 12 participants each. Shore birding can be very frustrating without a scope, but please note that we will not allow non-related people to share scopes during these field trips.

THIS TRIP IS SOLD OUT

DRIVING/WALKING: Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
DATE: Saturday, August 29
TIME: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
COST: $30/person; $4 refuge entrance fee or Federal Duck Stamp required for entry
MEETING LOCATION: Bombay Hook NWR Visitor Center, 2591 Whitehall Neck Road Smyrna, DE 19977