Birding

Claytor Lake State Park

540-643-2500, ClaytorLake@dcr.virginia.gov

A variety of birds can be seen throughout the park regularly and seasonally. The park also has 31 different types of easily observable bird boxes. The boxes primarily house bluebirds, tree swallows, screech owls and chickadees.

Type of birds

Various species of waterfowl can be spotted in or along the lake. Various species of raptors also are common here. Also common are bluebirds, tree swallows, cardinals, robins, blue jays, tufted titmice, doves, chickadees, red-bellied woodpeckers, downy woodpeckers, hairy woodpeckers, pileated woodpeckers, northern flickers, white-breasted nuthatches, house finches, great-crested flycatchers, screech owls, osprey, ducks, loons, herons, gulls, vultures and hawks.

Best time of year to observe

Spring and fall are the more active times for birding, but a variety of species of birds can be observed throughout the year in the park. 

Best places in the park to observe

Many bird boxes are easily seen from trails, fields and roads. There are several open areas throughout the park as well as along the waterfront that provided excellent vantage points for birding.

Special birding programs and events

The park has Owl Prowl night hikes bimonthly during summer.

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