Many Delawareans have seen the signs for Bombay Hook on the side of the road when they’re heading down to the beach. If you’ve never stopped to drive through, take a look at what you’re missing!

Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a gorgeous oasis on the Delaware Bay, and it attracts birders and nature lovers all year long.

Flickr / John Leszczynski

Come spend a day driving through Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge! Along the auto-tour route, you’ll get to take short walks on boardwalk trails that bring you to beautiful spotting spaces.

Flickr / Thomas

The marsh refuge is a noteworthy spot along the International Flyway - meaning it draws in thousands of birds and hundreds of species from all over the world.

Flickr / Thomas

Take a walk or follow the auto-tour and keep your eyes peeled! You’ll see everything from common birds like goldfinches…

Flickr / Thomas

… to endangered and rare birds like Peregrine Falcons…

Flickr / Judy Gallagher

and Ospreys, who come to nest in this protected area.

Flickr / Thomas

Bring your binoculars and see how many different species you can spot! Purple Martins, like the one pictured here, are always fun to watch.

Flickr / US Fish and Wildlife Service

You’re likely to learn a bit while you travel through the refuge Did you know that this beautiful Blue Grosbeak is part of the Cardinal family?

Flickr / Thomas

Frequently, the huge flocks of shorebirds and migratory birds settle in one spot. Look out for them and you might see them all take off at once!

Flickr / Laura Pontiggia

When thousands of birds take up to the air, it’s a sight you’ll never forget.

Flickr / Laura Pontiggia

How good is your vision? Bring binoculars or a spotting scope to more easily see birds like this hidden Eastern Towhee.

Flickr / US Fish and Wildlife Service

Of course, you’ll find more than just feathered friends here at Bombay Hook! Foxes, turtles, snakes, and other critters call this protected space home, too.

Flickr / US Fish and Wildlife Service

Learn more about Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge by visiting their website, right here.

Flickr / John Leszczynski

Flickr / Thomas

Flickr / Judy Gallagher

Flickr / US Fish and Wildlife Service

Flickr / Laura Pontiggia

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge, 2591 Whitehall Neck Rd, Smyrna, DE 19977, USA