The Voorhees Nature Preserve is a wonderful 729-acre slice of hardwood forest along the Rappahannock River, featuring 4 miles of trails and a short boardwalk across the mouth of Owl Hollow Marsh. Birding here has proven quite good for migrant passerines, including nearly 20 species of warblers, several types of thrushes, and an assortment of grosbeaks, tanagers, flycatchers, and more. Owl Hollow Marsh is a highlight of this preserve, hosting species such as Wood Duck, Red-headed Woodpecker, and Winter Wren in the winter; Blue-winged Teal in migration; and Prothonotary Warbler and Red-headed Woodpecker during the breeding season. Not to be missed, two overlooks near the river’s edge offer an excellent opportunity to view the Rappahannock River at a narrow pinch point between two much wider sections of water. At any time of year, viewing from here may produce some interesting find as water-loving species (think terns, gulls, waterfowl, herons, and shorebirds), common and uncommon alike, travel along the river. On the opposite bank of the Rappahannock is a substantial marsh that is known to harbor several species of ducks during the winter months. For best viewing, it is recommended to bring a spotting scope.
Accessibility: Parking is located along Bristol Mine Road and the preserve is open dawn to dusk. No dogs are permitted.
Owner/Manager: The Nature Conservancy
eBird Hotspot: Voorhees Nature Preserve
—Nick Newberry