Lake Christopher refers to both this mid-sized Virginia Beach lake and the private housing development that rings it. As might be expected, the main draw here is waterbirds. In the winter a variety of waterfowl are possible; previous eBird reports include Ruddy Duck, Gadwall, Bufflehead, Mallard, and Hooded Merganser, but other species including scaup, Redhead, Ring-necked Duck, American Wigeon, and more are likely. In addition to ducks, other waterbirds recorded here in the winter months include Pied-billed Grebe, Common Loon, and American Coot. Blue-winged Teal may drop in during spring and fall, occasionally lingering later in the fall with reports through November. Gulls forage over the lake during all seasons, though the species composition changes throughout the year. Ring-billed Gulls predominate in winter while Laughing Gulls return in spring and stay through the summer. Herring and Great Black-backed Gulls may drop in any time of year. In the spring and summer, Royal Terns may also be spotted with the gulls.
Apart from these waterbirds, the surrounding housing developments harbor many of the expected suburban species. At all times of year, expected a varied species suite that includes Mourning Doves, Carolina Wrens, Northern Cardinals, House Finches, Song Sparrows, Northern Mockingbirds, and more. During the breeding season this group is augmented by suburban-adapted breeders such as Great Crested Flycatchers, Blue-grey Gnatcatchers, and others. The water’s edge provides habitat for Eastern Kingbirds, which may sometimes be seen aggressively pursuing potential predators such as gulls or crows. During wintertime, look for White-throated Sparrows, Dark-eyed Juncos, and Yellow-rumped Warblers. As with many residential areas in southeastern Virginia, overwintering passerines are a possibility. On at least one occasion, an overwintering Baltimore Oriole has been reported visiting a feeder at a Lake Christopher home.
Accessibility: Lake Christopher is surrounded by a private housing development. There are several parks that provide access to the lake. The main one is Christopher Landing, located on the west side of the lake. All access points are private and clearly marked, with access restricted to homeowners, renters, and accompanied guests. To some extent, it is possible to view the lake from the public road that rings it.
Owner/Manager: Lake Christopher Homes Association
eBird Hotspot: Lake Christopher
—Matt Anthony