March
Birds that have spent the winter in the southern states are beginning to show up, some in big numbers like the large groups of blackbirds that visit your backyard-feeding stations; and migrant waterfowl such as Common Mergansers on the lakes. This is also the last month to look at huge Snow Geese flocks – areas around Prime Hook NWR (especially Broadkill Beach Road) and Bombay Hook NWR (especially at sunset over Raymond or Shearness Pools). By the end of the month, swallows, Eastern Phoebes and Ospreys have all arrived and the first of Pine Warblers show up. Woodcocks are now displaying on warmer evenings and John Heinz NWR “Tinicum” is a great place to witness this.
Southwestern New Jersey, including Gloucester, Salem,and Cumberland Counties, NJ
This is a great place to go for early spring migrants, such as American Woodcock, Tundra Swan and Ross’s Goose, and amongst the blackbirds there is always a chance of a Yellow-headed or Brewer’s. There is also a small resident flock of Sandhill Cranes. Bald Eagle nests are plentiful. By the end of the month, Osprey and Blue-winged Teal begin to arrive, and there is even the possibility of an early Ruff.
Peace Valley, Bucks Co, PA
Excellent for waterfowl including 3 grebe and merganser species along with many geese including Snow, and a good chance of finding Ross’s, Cackling and a Greater White-fronted Goose and gulls including many Lesser Black-backed Gulls. A Bald Eagle or 2 are usually about and sparrows include American Tree, Fox, Swamp and & White-crowned. Woodcock are also displaying by late in the month.
eBird HotspotTed Harvey Wildlife Area, Kent Co, DE
For a wide variety of waterfowl, up to 15 duck species in splendid plumage are possible at the North Pond, along with Pied-billed Grebe and American Avocets by the end of the month.
eBird HotspotCedar Creek Mill Pond and/or Cubbage Pond, off Rt 30 south of Milford, Sussex Co, DE
Large numbers of Ring-necked Ducks, American Wigeon and Tundra Swans.
