Birding

Seven Bends State Park

540-630-4718, sevenbends@dcr.virginia.gov

Seven Bends State Park, located along the North Fork of the Shenandoah River, boasts over 100 recorded bird species and a rich diversity of habitats, from hay fields and riverbanks to woodland edges, that attract both open-country and woodland birds. The gravel roads and riverside trails provide excellent opportunities for spotting migrants and resident species, making it a rewarding destination for birdwatchers seeking variety.

Type of birds

Birders at Seven Bends enjoy a mix of species, ranging from waterfowl like Canada geese, wood ducks and common mergansers to river-edge birds such as great blue herons, green herons, osprey and belted kingfishers. The park's forests and fields support a variety of woodpeckers, flycatchers, vireos and songbirds, including bluebirds, wrens, chickadees, robins, waxwings, sparrows, buntings and tanagers, while raptors like bald eagles, red-shouldered hawks, Cooper's hawks and turkey vultures are also regularly observed.

Best time of year to observe

Spring and fall are the best times of year for viewing.

Best places in the park to observe

Gokotta Trail and the Lupton Road loop provide access to a variety of habitats and broaden opportunities for bird observation. For those seeking a more challenging experience, the park's mountain trail offers an excellent way to encounter additional species and enjoy elevated views of the landscape.