Forest birding habitat

Julie J. Metz Wetlands Bank

Virginia · Southeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Julie J. Metz Wetlands Bank is a productive birding destination in Virginia, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, 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

Franklin's Gull

Leucophaeus pipixcan

7/20/2026Hunting Creek Bridge (Fairfax Co.)1 observed

Semipalmated Plover

Charadrius semipalmatus

7/20/2026Belle Haven Park--North Parking Area2 observed

Willet

Tringa semipalmata

7/18/2026Hunting Creek Bridge (Fairfax Co.)1 observed

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

7/15/2026Mattawoman Creek--Mattingly Park1 observed

American Coot

Fulica americana

7/14/202614701 Bayview Drive, Woodbridge, Virginia, US (38.633, -77.248)1 observed

Dickcissel

Spiza americana

7/12/2026Manassas National Battlefield Park--Portici Area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Red-bellied Woodpecker

17/19/2026

Carolina Wren

17/19/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

27/19/2026

Common Grackle

17/19/2026

Common Yellowthroat

17/19/2026

Northern Cardinal

27/19/2026

Blue Grosbeak

17/19/2026

Indigo Bunting

17/19/2026

Mourning Dove

27/10/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

17/10/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/10/2026

Northern Flicker

17/10/2026

Acadian Flycatcher

27/10/2026

Eastern Phoebe

27/10/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

27/10/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

47/10/2026

Blue Jay

17/10/2026

American Crow

17/10/2026

Fish Crow

57/10/2026

Carolina Chickadee

27/10/2026

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Julie J. Metz Wetlands Bank for birding?
The best months to visit Julie J. Metz Wetlands Bank for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Julie J. Metz Wetlands Bank?
Notable species at Julie J. Metz Wetlands Bank include Canada Goose, Tundra Swan, Mallard, Hooded Merganser, Sharp-shinned Hawk. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Julie J. Metz Wetlands Bank?
Birding at Julie J. Metz Wetlands Bank is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Julie J. Metz Wetlands Bank?
Julie J. Metz Wetlands Bank offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.