US Fish and Wildlife ServiceBombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
When visitors travel to the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, they are immediately greeted by a serene and enchanting natural landscape. Located along the Delaware Bay near Smyrna, this refuge provides sanctuary for over 320 species of birds, 40 species of mammals, and 50 species of reptiles and amphibians as well as being a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts.
As visitors arrive, they are met with vast expanses of tidal salt marshes, freshwater pools, and lush forests that create an ideal habitat for countless species of wildlife. Exploration opportunities abound in this biodiverse haven. Nature lovers can embark on a network of well-maintained trails, observation towers, and boardwalks, allowing them to observe wildlife in their natural habitat without disturbing their peaceful existence.
The refuge is strategically-located along the Atlantic Flyway making it an ornithologist and photographer’s paradise. Hundreds of thousands of geese migrate through the refuge each year. The sight of a massive flock of snow geese taking flight is truly breathtaking. The salt marshes are a haven for many bird species that have adapted to the unique conditions of this coastal tidal ecosystem, including willets, sandpipers, dowitchers, herons, and egrets.
The refuge is a year-round destination, each season offering a unique spectacle. In the summer months, one can see several species of dunlin, ibis, and bitterns. Autumn and spring bring a mosaic of millions of migratory birds including water fowl, thrushes, warblers and Orioles. Even the colder months have their own charm, as winter visitors can witness the grace of tundra swans, a truly mesmerizing sight.
As birdwatchers explore the Bombay Hook Wildlife Refuge, they gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of conservation efforts and the fragile balance of ecosystems. The refuge not only provides a natural escape but also serves as a reminder of our responsibility to protect and preserve these precious habitats for future generations to enjoy and cherish.
Trip Advisor
WikipediaA 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge protects one of the largest remaining expanses of tidal salt marsh in the mid-Atlantic region.Attraction Advice
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- Sponsored by: Town of Smyrna
- Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
- Smyrna DE
- (302) 653-9345