Thoughts of wintertime in Virginia are often accompanied by connotations that most wildlife is non-existent, the most beautiful birds have migrated, and therefore, birding is hopeless because you're only going to see Northern Cardinals and maybe a few American Crows.

But wait, there is good news. Winter is not entirely devoid of wildlife, as previously thought. Different bird species are present that better adapt to winter than other migratory species and survive pretty well.

Read on to find seven reasons why you should plan to do your winter birding at Mason Neck State Park.

1. Beautiful Belmont Bay

 
Belmont Bay at Sunset

Truthfully, one of the best parts about our park is Belmont Bay, a shallow freshwater body that flows into the Potomac River. The diversity of birds we see here year-round is incredible since various birds make their homes in and around the water. Who wouldn't mind catching one of our stunning sunsets while listening for Barred Owls?

2. The marshes

Many birds from different families make use of our marshy habitats for foraging, roosting, etc. The marshes may look empty, but if you pause for a moment, you will notice little chirps of songbirds flitting by watching your next move. You can often spot various sparrow species, Great Blue Herons, Belted Kingfishers and other waterfowl. If you're lucky, you may spot an American Bald Eagle.

3. The birds, of course

No matter where you venture in this park, you’re bound to see birds around! Here is a small sample of our wintering residents that are sure to show their feathers most days.

Not-so-inconspicuous Cedar Waxwings

 
Year-round resident, yellow-shafted Northern Flicker

One of many Dark-eyed Juncos foraging around the Bay View Trail head

Solitary Hermit Thrush quietly calling

4. The influx of Tundra Swans

The Chesapeake Bay is one of several areas in the country where Tundra Swans establish residency in the winter. They arrive by the hundreds in early December to winter on Belmont Bay. Flocks of these massive water birds are a must-see for all birders, and Mason Neck State Park provides one of the best observation points. 

5. American Bald Eagles

Almost every Mason Neck State Park visitor happily departs with images of the majestic Bald Eagle embedded in their brains. With 50-60 year-round residents around the peninsula, you would be hard-pressed not to see an eagle if you're patient.

Adult perched atop a tree next to the Visitor Center

6. Great Blue Heron Rookery

The Mason Neck peninsula is home to one of the largest Great Blue Heron rookeries in Virginia. With around 1,200 breeding residents, the Great Blue Heron is a staple wading bird in the winter time here.

7. The other Wildlife and Beautiful Scenery

Surely those who appreciate birds have a genuine appreciation for nature in general. As previously mentioned, Mason Neck State Park is not completely devoid of wildlife in winter! It may not be as conspicuous as a turtle or squirrel, but there is other wildlife hiding in plain sight. Just beyond that crispy foggy morning or the dead reeds in the marsh, there is life waiting to be discovered.

A chilly winter morning at Turtle Pond

Birding during the winter time can be a very rewarding experience for both the novice and advanced birders alike if you know where to look. Luckily, Mason Neck State Park provides an excellent opportunity to see these modern day dinosaurs up close year-round. Even better, the Mason Neck area houses hundreds of waterfowl and other hardy birds, so you’re guaranteed to see birds even on the most frigid and windy of winter days.

Come out to Mason Neck State Park, you never know what wintering birds you’ll find. The park is open from 8:00 a.m. until sunset daily. Mason Neck State Park is located near Lorton, Virginia, only about 20 miles from Washington D.C. Click here for a google map. For more information on the park, please call the office at (703) 339-2385 or e-mail here. We hope to see you soon!