Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve

West Virginia · Southeast

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve is a productive birding destination in West Virginia, with 212 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mallard, and American Black Duck 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

Black-capped Chickadee

Poecile atricapillus

3/3/2026Jim Barnett Park1 observed

Greater White-fronted Goose

Anser albifrons

3/2/2026Martinsburg Lakes Subdivision2 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

2/25/2026White's Lake1 observed

Blue-winged Teal

Spatula discors

2/24/2026115 Gretchen Court, Stephenson, Virginia, US (39,222, -78,105)2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

113/4/2026

Mallard

83/4/2026

American Black Duck

23/4/2026

Ring-necked Duck

33/4/2026

Common Merganser

83/4/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/4/2026

European Starling

53/4/2026

White-throated Sparrow

23/4/2026

Song Sparrow

113/4/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

653/4/2026

Mourning Dove

12/28/2026

Killdeer

12/28/2026

American Woodcock

42/28/2026

American Robin

12/28/2026

House Sparrow

12/28/2026

Northern Cardinal

2/28/2026

Rock Pigeon

42/28/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

22/28/2026

Red-headed Woodpecker

12/28/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

22/28/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve?
Notable species at Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve include Canada Goose, Mallard, American Black Duck, Ring-necked Duck, Common Merganser. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve?
Birding at Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve?
Stauffer's Marsh Nature Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.