If you spend any time along the eastern shore of Delaware, you’ll notice how many migratory birds and waterfowl hang around, year-round. The Delaware Bay is a tremendously important stop for migratory birds, and in March of 1927, a 16,000-acre National Wildlife Refuge was established along the eastern shore of Kent County. It was named the Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge and it is a refuge and breeding ground for migratory and wintering waterfowl along the Atlantic Flyway. Federal Duck Stamp funds helped purchase the land from local farmers and landowners.

When you visit Bombay Hook, you’ll be able to travel the 12 mile auto-tour, which will bring you through the preserved habitats and allow you to see birds, foxes, turtles, frogs and more. Along the way, take one of the five walking trails and climb one of the 30-foot observation towers – there are three. You’ll see some incredible sights that will make you forget that you’re even in Delaware. Take a look as we take a photo tour of Bombay Hook:

Beautiful herons are spotted all summer.
Flickr / Jeffrey
The birdwatching is really incredible.
Flickr / Laura Pontiggia
The sun peeking through the clouds really shows off the vastness of the refuge.
Flickr / Laura Pontiggia
It's clear how important this location is to birds along the Atlantic Flyway.
Flickr / Laura Pontiggia
The flowers and plants along the walking trails are absolutely gorgeous.
Flickr / Laura Pontiggia
Birds rest in the marshland that becomes their breeding grounds.
Flickr / Laura Pontiggia

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Fall foliage makes Bombay Hook look even more incredible - if that's possible.
Flickr / Laura Pontiggia
Some of the walking trails have boardwalks to travel, taking you above the marsh.
Flickr / Laura Pontiggia
Other paths take you under trees in the wooded areas of the refuge.
Flickr / Larraine
If you're lucky, you might see a fox up close.
Flickr / Baby Ruth in MD
Or, check out a flock of snow geese leaving, en masse.
USFWS Northeast
Whatever you spy at Bombay Hook, this enormous preserve will take your breath away.
Flickr / Luis Cap
Especially if you stay for a sunset over the water.
Flickr / Garden State Hiker

 

Have you been to Bombay Hook? This is just one of many gorgeous places in Delaware. Check out this beautiful natural oasis, too!

Hours of Operation: Refuge Auto Tour Route: Sunrise to sunset, every day of the year. Visitor Center: 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. Mon.-Fri. all year. Visitor Center: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat.-Sun. in spring (March-June) and fall (Sept.-Nov.)

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