a man standing on top of a mountain next to a lake

Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch

Delaware · Northeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free

Hours

Trails: dawn to dusk daily; Center: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Sat 9 AM - 3 PM

About This Location

Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch is a productive birding destination in Delaware, with 229 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mourning Dove, and Turkey Vulture among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

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

Bobolink

Dolichonyx oryzivorus

6/15/2026Brinton Run Preserve1 observed

Anhinga

Anhinga anhinga

6/15/2026Anhinga1 observed

Blue Grosbeak

Passerina caerulea

6/15/2026First State NHP--Brandywine Valley Unit (PA)2 observed

American Bittern

Botaurus lentiginosus

6/15/2026Exton Park1 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

6/15/2026Ridley Creek SP (IBA)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

36/14/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

26/14/2026

Downy Woodpecker

16/14/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

26/14/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

36/14/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

16/14/2026

White-eyed Vireo

16/14/2026

Eastern Warbling Vireo

36/14/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

56/14/2026

Blue Jay

36/14/2026

Carolina Chickadee

26/14/2026

Tufted Titmouse

46/14/2026

Tree Swallow

96/14/2026

Purple Martin

56/14/2026

Barn Swallow

56/14/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

36/14/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

56/14/2026

Northern House Wren

46/14/2026

Carolina Wren

26/14/2026

Gray Catbird

96/14/2026

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

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

  4. 4

    Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.

  5. 5

    Waterproof boots are recommended as trails near marshes can be muddy, especially after rain.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch for birding?
The best months to visit Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch?
Notable species at Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch include Canada Goose, Mourning Dove, Turkey Vulture, Bald Eagle, Red-shouldered Hawk, American Woodcock, Snow Goose, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Carolina Chickadee, American Robin, House Sparrow. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch?
Birding at Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
Is there an entrance fee at Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch?
There is no entrance fee at Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch. Hours: Trails: dawn to dusk daily; Center: Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Sat 9 AM - 3 PM.
What amenities are available at Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch?
Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.