Bird at Toms Cove

The deck of the Toms Cove Visitor Center provides excellent birding opportunities year-round

NPS Photo

The Virginia district of Assateague Island lies within the Atlantic Flyway, providing excellent birding opportunities year-round. No matter what time of year you visit, a great spot to start your birding adventure is on the deck of Toms Cove Visitor Center. In the spring and summer if you look over the deck to the south into Toms Cove at low tide you are sure to view a variety of shorebirds feasting away on the oyster beds. Check the duck blind for signs of nesting osprey or perched cormorants. If you look or walk to the west across Beach Road into Swans Cove, you have the potential of seeing more shorebirds or even black skimmers in action. Look at the snags and trees in the distance for a sighting of the eagles! During the fall and winter migrations you will be able view a variety of waterfowl including ducks and snow geese in these same areas. Higher tides may also bring in a few sea ducks to Toms Cove.

Increase your viewing opportunities with binoculars, a spotting scope and camera if you desire.

Details

Activity

Birdwatching

View a variety of birds year-roud from the deck of the Toms Cove Visitor Center. Increase your viewing opportunities with binoculars, a spotting scope and camera if you desire.

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are prohibited in the entire Virginia district of Assateague Island. They are not allowed even in your car.

Activity Fee

No

Park entrance fees apply.

Location

Virginia District, Toms Cove Visitor Center

The Toms Cove Visitor Center is located at 8586 Beach Road, Chincoteague, VA 23336. The deck attched to the Visitor Center over looking Toms Cove is located on the southern side of the building.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

The Toms Cove Visitor Center Deck is accessible by a plank ramp with a handrail that gradually elevates up to 10 feet. The ramp is 11 feet wide and a wheelchair accessible viewing scope is available on the deck. A limited amount of bench and seating space is available on the deck for those who may have trouble standing for long periods of time.