Birds of George Washington Memorial Parkway

Woodpecker (VA) [1]

Explore the area around the George Washington Memorial Parkway, where at least 243 species of birds have been discovered. Some of the must-see places for birding along the byway are the Dyke Marsh Wildlife Refuge, Great Falls Park, and the Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge.

The Dyke Marsh Wildlife Refuge, located along the shores of the Potomac River, is one of the largest tidal freshwater marshes under the care of the National Park Service. Walking along the paths, you can spot up to 25 different species of waterfowl, and it's one of the few places in the DC area where you can discover flocks of Marsh Wrens. Listen closely to hear the sound of the Red-winged Blackbird, one of the most common birds in the marsh, and one of the 300 species of birds that can be found in the marsh.

Bald Eagles Roost (VA) [2]

Some birders keep track of "life birds," or previously unseen birds. With 163 species of birds to discover at Great Falls Park, you're sure to find your "life bird" of the day. Most of the birds consist of ducks, geese and herons, but 35 species of warblers have been known to make their home here during the spring and fall migrations. This area is an excellent location to check off a variety of species in your birding book. During the spring and fall, Hunting Creek offers an ideal spot for finding plovers, sandpipers and other wading birds, but Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge is a must-see, as it was created for the protection of nesting, feeding and roosting habitat for the Bald Eagles.

The George Washington Memorial Parkway is beloved by the local birding community, with volunteer-led bird watches and talks. As you walk around the area, you will see ospreys, herons, and Red-winged Blackbirds, as well as a variety of other species to add to your birding memories.