Great Backyard Bird Count

Location of Hungry Mother State Park in Virginia

Where

Hungry Mother State Park, 2854 Park Blvd., Marion, VA 24354.
Various areas throughout the Park

When

Feb. 13, 2026 5:00 p.m. - Feb. 16, 2026 12:00 p.m.

Northern Cardinal

Friday, Feb. 13

5 p.m. – Owl Prowl: Take a night time walk with one of our interpreters and learn how owls manage life after dark. We’ll even try calling out to them - who knows, we might get a reply or catch a glimpse if we’re lucky. Meet at the Boat Ramp off of Mitchell Valley Road. 

Saturday, Feb. 14

8 a.m. – Early Morning Bird Hike: Start your Saturday with a peaceful hike as we look for some of the park’s most-loved birds. A volunteer guide will help you explore the surprising and detailed world of our winged neighbors. Meet at the Beach Parking Lot. 

11 a.m. – Owl Pellets: Ready to play detective? Join us as we dissect owl pellets to figure out what these impressive hunters ate. It’s a fun look into the daily life of these amazing birds. Meet at the Discovery Center. 

1 p.m. – DIY Bird Feeder: Create your own bird feeder with one of our interpreters and learn a bit about the birds that might visit it. You’ll leave with a handmade feeder and a deeper appreciation for the park’s bird life. Meet at the Discovery Center. (Note: We’ll be using peanut butter.)

Sunday & Monday, Feb. 15–16

8 a.m. – Early Morning Bird Hikes: We’re heading out again for more bird watching throughout the weekend. On Sunday, meet at the Mitchell Valley Boat Ramp; on Monday, meet at the Spillway. 

Sunday, Feb. 15

11 a.m. – Bird Journaling: Explore the calming practice of bird journaling - a great way to connect with nature while sparking curiosity and creativity. We’ll look at fun facts about local birds and learn how to capture what you see on the page. Meet at Clyburn Ridge Trail head. 

 

Documents

  1. 2-great-backyard-bird-count.pdf

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-781-7400
Email Address: HungryMother@dcr.virginia.gov

Event types

Arts/Crafts/Photography Workshops | Evening Programs | Kids/Family | Outdoor/Nature/Natural History | Special Event | Volunteer Events

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