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World Migratory Bird Day Hikes

Pennsylvania & Delaware

Two people on a hike look through their binoculars to spot birds.
Nags Head Woods Preserve Visitors at the Roanoke trail. © Sophia Torres

Overview

Event Overview

World Migratory Bird Day Hikes

Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with us! In the U.S., this special day is observed on the second Saturday of May, a perfect moment to spotlight the incredible journey of migrating birds and the habitats they rely on across the globe.

This year, we’re offering three guided bird hikes at three of our flagship preserves. Each hike offers a unique landscape, expert leaders and the chance to see spring migrants on the move.

Choose your adventure below and spend a beautiful May morning discovering the birds that connect our world.

Guided Bird Hikes by Location

1. Cove Mountain Preserve at Hamer Woodlands (Perry County, PA)

Start Time: 10:00 a.m.
Guide: Andy Dapkins of Appalachian Audubon Society and “Bird Guy” Tours
Difficulty: Somewhat difficult—rocky terrain + steep sections

Climb to the top of Cove Mountain on a rewarding route known for excellent vantage points and spring bird activity. Enjoy insights from Andy as you explore early‑season migrants moving along the Susquehanna River corridor.

2. Long Pond Barrens Preserve (Monroe County, PA)

Start Time: 8:00 a.m.
Guide: Roger Spotts, Naturalist & Nature Docent
Difficulty: Somewhat easy—mostly flat, unpaved trails; minor tripping hazards

Walk the beautiful Long Pond Barrens Birding Trail with Roger and explore one of the region’s most unique natural communities. This relaxed morning hike offers great opportunities to observe migrating species in a serene setting.

3. Ponders Tract (Sussex County, DE)

Start Time: 9:00 a.m.
Guides: Tracey Haines, Nature Docent & DE Master Naturalist, and the Sussex Bird Club
Difficulty: Somewhat easy—flat, sandy trails with some tripping hazards

Enjoy a gentle guided hike along the sandy trails of Ponders Tract as you look for birds passing through and using this diverse preserve. Perfect for birders of all levels and a great introduction to Delaware’s migratory pathways.

Registration is required. Please register for a hike below.

A yellow warbler sits on a branch with green leaves.
Common Yellowthroat Sporting a black mask, these warblers are common spring migrants to Ohio, making their nests in open areas like marshes, wetland edges, or fields with brush. © Jason Whalen/Fauna Creative