Swoope Area

Virginia · Southeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Swoope Area is a productive birding destination in Virginia, with 207 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Mourning Dove, Wilson's Snipe, and Red-tailed Hawk 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

Loggerhead Shrike

Lanius ludovicianus

3/5/2026355 Livick Rd, Swoope US-VA 38.14263, -79.188921 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

3/4/2026Cattleman Road20 observed

Brewer's Blackbird

Euphagus cyanocephalus

3/4/2026Guthrie Road1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

2/28/2026Willow Lake1 observed

Lapland Longspur

Calcarius lapponicus

2/28/2026Guthrie Road2 observed

American Tree Sparrow

Spizelloides arborea

2/27/2026Cowbane Prairie Natural Area Preserve1 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Swoope Area for birding?
The best months to visit Swoope Area for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Swoope Area?
Notable species at Swoope Area include Mourning Dove, Wilson's Snipe, Red-tailed Hawk, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Northern Flicker. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Swoope Area?
Birding at Swoope Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Swoope Area?
Swoope Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.