When people think of birding in the United States, they often picture destinations like the Florida Everglades, the Pacific Northwest, or the Gulf Coast. But some of the country’s best birding can be found right here in Fairfax County.
Nestled in the Potomac Banks area, less than five miles from the beltway, Huntley Meadows Park is a popular and accessible destination for birders and nature lovers alike. Despite its location in a bustling suburban area, the park’s wetlands provide a thriving protected habitat for a remarkable variety of bird species.
As Huntley Meadows celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025, this spring is an excellent time to visit to experience its beautiful wetlands and rich biodiversity.
A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Photo by Rena Schild (2025 People's Choice Award winner of the Fairfax County Park Authority First Hike Photo Contest). A pair of Northern Pintails at Huntley Meadows Park.
Huntley Meadows Park is home to more than 200 bird species, making it one of the premier birding locations in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Its lush wetlands, meadows, and forests provide critical habitats for both resident and migratory birds. Throughout the year, visitors can spot an array of species, from vibrant songbirds to majestic birds of prey.
Some commonly sighted birds include:
- Common grackles and the Virginia state bird, northern cardinals
- Sandpipers, plovers and various species of waterfowl like mallards, green-winged teal, and hooded mergansers. Plus, in the springtime, you’re likely to see newly hatched ducklings!
- Red-winged blackbirds, egrets and great blue herons
- Swallows, sparrows, warblers, and several species of woodpeckers
- Raptors such as red-tailed hawks and bald eagles
And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a rare visitor like a common loon or a glossy ibis!
Check out Cornell Lab’s eBird for a full list of birds you might see at Huntley Meadows Park.
A Community of Birders
Join a guided bird walk to improve your wildlife skills and make connections with the birding community. Photo courtesy Fairfax County Park Authority.
A great way to experience the rich birdlife at Huntley Meadows Park is by joining the Monday Morning Bird Walks, a free and welcoming gathering for birdwatchers of all skill levels.
The park also hosts a variety of nature programs and events throughout the year, including the popular Woodcock Walks held in March and guided dusk walks—an ideal time to spot species that are less active during the day.
Whether you're an experienced birder or a beginner, these walks offer a unique chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts and witness the park’s diverse and ever-changing bird population.
For more information, call Huntley Meadows Park at 703-768-2525 or sign up online.
Celebrate 50 Years of Conservation
Learn from expert birders and naturalists at various park events throughout the year. Photo courtesy Fairfax County Park Authority.
In 2025, Huntley Meadows Park will mark its 50th anniversary, alongside the 200th anniversary of Historic Huntley, the historic house nestled within the park’s grounds. Once part of George Mason’s family estate, the park has evolved into a thriving wildlife sanctuary and a beloved public space.
To honor this milestone, Huntley Meadows will host a variety of special events, hands-on volunteer opportunities, and educational programs that showcase the park’s rich ecological heritage.
The highlight of the celebration will be Wetlands Awareness Day on May 4 from 12pm – 4pm. Bring the whole family for an engaging afternoon dedicated to the wonders of Huntley Meadows’ wetlands. Attendees can get up close with raptors, reptiles, and amphibians, participate in interactive exhibits, and collect stamps for prizes while exploring the event. Throughout the day, naturalists will be available to provide expert guidance on birdwatching and wildlife observation.
For a complete list of anniversary events celebrating both Historic Huntley and Huntley Meadows Park, visit the official anniversary webpage.
Plan Your Visit
Red-winged blackbirds are a common sight at Huntley Meadows. Photo courtesy Fairfax County Park Authority.
Whether you're a passionate birder or simply seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, Huntley Meadows Park promises an unforgettable experience. Serving as a crucial stop for migrating birds, the park offers a dynamic environment where each season brings an exciting array of new species, making every visit a thrilling opportunity to spot a new lifer!
For the best wildlife sightings, plan your visit in the early morning or just before sunset. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the park’s ongoing legacy—grab your binoculars and celebrate 50 years of ecological preservation at Huntley Meadows Park!
For more information, visit the Huntley Meadows Park webpage.
*This guest blog post (copy/images) was provided by Brittany Vasquez with Fairfax County Park Authority. For more fun park activities, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.*
