Here at Albemarle Plantation, beauty and nature come together in perfect harmony – the gentle lapping water in rhythm with the morning chorus of birds chirping. Our authentic coastal community, set along the deep blue waters of the Albemarle Sound, is a bird-watchers paradise. This immense coastal estuary is the second largest in United States, outsized only by the Chesapeake Bay, and outshined by none. This large basin is a unique blend of fresh and brackish water which provides a wide variety of fish that can be found year-round – and thus attracting a wide variety of fowl to feast our eyes on! Below are some tips if you are new to birdwatching and the various species you might see in our pristine area.
Some basics to get you started. Birding is a relatively low-cost hobby (after the initial investment in binoculars) that can be done virtually anywhere.
- Make sure the sun is behind you, this will make it easier to catch the contrast of the bird feathers to the surrounding environment. Consider the position of the sun when you plan to go birding. This way you can hopefully maximize the light for better chances of spotting birds.
- Having a list can also help build up excitement, as you look for target species there is a different kind of joy when you spot something you’ve been actively looking for, rather than aimlessly wandering around.
- Be present, curious, and patient – the right attitude is the last supply you need for birding today and many years to come.
When is the best time to birdwatch? If the early bird gets the worm, then the birder needs to be up even earlier. For those that aren’t early risers, don’t stress; although most songbirds are most active at dawn, when their calls carry farther, predatory birds soar on sun-warmed air currents of the late morning and afternoon. Head down to our Marina Park and you are sure to see Osprey and Brown Pelicans feasting on fish.
Practice. Fill up a bird feeder in the backyard, then sit back to see how many different species show up. Here you can work on not frightening them away with sudden movements, noise, or light. You may be surprised how close some of them get when they are used to your presence.
What birds are in my area? A field guide is the next step to help ID birds you spot, books to mobile apps there are plenty of options to fit your needs. Typically, these species can be found in our area: anhinga, blue heron, bald eagle and other raptors, great crested flycatchers, hooded mergansers, various warbler species, red-cockaded woodpeckers, summer tanagers, tundra swans, dabbling ducks and a variety of wading birds.
The Sound is brimming activity! Come find your favorite birding spot by booking your visit today! Guests enjoy a 3-day/2-night stay with access to world-class golf, fitness facilities and other one-of-a-kind amenities offered at Albemarle Plantation. Kayak on the stunning Albemarle Sound, bike through the community and get to know the residents as you dine at the clubhouse. Take this opportunity to explore the area, we are just minutes from Elizabeth City and historic Edenton, NC, where you can take in the stunning sights of the Albemarle Sound. And be sure to click here to view current listings in Albemarle Plantation, and begin your life on the water.