Rural Retreat Lake
Virginia · Southeast
About This Location
Rural Retreat Lake is a productive birding destination in Virginia, with 202 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, Wood Duck, and Mallard among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.
Location
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Notable Species
Live Bird Data
Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Notable Sightings
Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days
Snow Goose
Anser caerulescens
Greater White-fronted Goose
Anser albifrons
Recent Observations
Species reported at this location in the last 14 days
Canada Goose
Wood Duck
Mallard
Green-winged Teal
Hooded Merganser
Common Merganser
Mourning Dove
Killdeer
Great Blue Heron
Belted Kingfisher
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Eastern Phoebe
Blue Jay
American Crow
Carolina Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
White-breasted Nuthatch
Brown Creeper
Carolina Wren
American Robin
Birding Tips
- 1
Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.
- 2
Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.
- 3
Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.
Amenities
More in Virginia
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Virginia's iconic barrier island refuge with 320+ species, wild ponies, and Atlantic Flyway migrants.
Huntley Meadows Park
DC area's premier wetland with boardwalk access to nesting herons, rails, and diverse marsh birds.
Great Falls Park
Potomac gorge park with breeding Cerulean Warblers, dramatic river views, and rich spring migration.
Virginia Birding Guide
Complete guide to birding in Virginia →