Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge

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The Pea Island visitor center

[edit] Description

Pea Island is a prime destination for birders on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Located between Cape Hatteras to the south and Oregon Inlet to the north, Pea Island is one of the long, thin islands separating Pamlico Sound from the Atlantic Ocean. Because the island is so narrow, and because it harbors several large freshwater ponds, as well as immediate access to the Atlantic beach, a variety species can be seen at this site when conditions are favorable.

A first visit should begin at the Pea Island visitors' center, where maps and restrooms are available. Directly adjacent to the visitor center parking lot is the North Pond, where large numbers of birds are sometimes seen. A footpath leads around much of the North Pond, and is bordered by a row of vegetation which in autumn can sometimes harbor many migrating passerines. An observation tower positioned in one corner of the North Pond provides views of both that pond and surrounding areas.

The North Pond at Pea Island (minus birds!)

From the parking lot at the Pea Island visitors' center one can easily reach the Atlantic beach by simply crossing over NC 12 and hiking across the sand dunes toward the east. Gulls, terns, and pelicans are often seen here, as are various shorebirds such as willets and marbled godwits.

Although birding at Pea Island can be exceptionally good, much depends on the weather. A single day can make an enormous difference in bird numbers, especially when a weather system passes through.

[edit] Getting There

Take NC 12 north from Cape Hatteras. Look for the Pea Island visitors' center sign on the left. Alternatively, take NC 12 south from Nags Head and look for the Pea Island visitors' center on the right. Parking spaces are available at other sites along NC 12 on Pea Island, many offering easy access to both eastern and western portions of the island. Off-road vehicle access is available in some locations; please observe posted regulations.

[edit] Species List

Marbled Godwits on the eastern side of Pea Island

• Spring: ...
• Summer: ...
• Fall: ...
• Winter: ...

[edit] Maps and other information

• Map
• US Fish and Wildlife: Pea Island
• Birding America: Pea Island
• Bird checklist for nearby Cape Hatteras

[edit] Accommodations

There are no hotels, restaurants, or gas stations on Pea Island. All of these can be found north in Nags Head, which is only a several-minute drive from Pea Island, or further south.

[edit] Caveats

• Dogs are generally permitted only on the east side of NC 12 on Pea Island; when birding the western areas, dogs must be left in the car

• Photo blinds are available for photographers; inquire at the Pea Island visitors' center

• The two ponds immediately south of the North Pond (New Field Pond and South Pond) are closed to the public

• Ticks can be problematic in spring and summer; use insect repellant as necessary

• Don't feed the enormous turtle which lurks near the restrooms at the visitors' center; feeding the wildlife is discouraged

A familiar face to frequent visitors: the large turtle at the Pea Island visitors' centor will try to make you feel guity for not feeding it, but don't give in!