The Outer Banks are a world-class destination for a lot of things, but a unique top-notch attraction is the local wildlife viewing. Although the creatures you'll spot vary from place to place and season to season, there's always something extraordinary to see. In the winter, the wildlife viewing is exceptional!
Where to See Birds
Each winter, migrating waterfowl and songbirds come to the Outer Banks to make their seasonal home among the area's many salt marshes, dunes, and maritime forests. Year after year, these birds return to the coast, delighting local birdwatchers.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is a popular place for birds. Along the many trails, ponds, and observation decks, you can see an astonishing variety of birds across the 13-mile park. You are likely to spot diving ducks and tundra swans along the road, plus northern pintail, gadwall, blue wing teal, redheads, and white pelicans throughout the refuge. The shallow waters at the Salt Flats attract lots of birds, including white ibis, snowy egrets, great egrets, rusty blackbirds, and American avocets.
Other popular places to see birds include Bodie Island Lighthouse and Jeanette's Pier.
Where to See Seals
Seal sightings are uncommon in the Outer Banks- except for in winter, when their migration takes them through the region. The Outer Banks are an important rest stop for exhausted seals. In the winter, you may spot seals on any number of the Outer Banks' beaches, but one of the most likely places to see them is Pamlico Sound. You may see harp seals or harbor seals on rocky beaches where the water is nice and cold. Remember: seals are protected animals, so be sure to view them from a distance of more than 150 feet!
Wear layered clothing and bring binoculars to make the most of winter wildlife viewing in the Outer Banks! Don't miss out on all of the fun- plan your visit today.
