Birding
At Swanquarter National Wildlife Refuge
The Bell Island Pier provides an excellent vantage point for observing waterfowl, terns, and gulls foraging and resting in Pamlico Sound. In addition, the entrance road passes through upland forest and marsh habitats, home to secretive marshbirds such as Virginia and clapper rail and breeding songbirds such as marsh wren and prairie warblers. From a boat, birders can see more of the refuge, including large rafts of diving ducks (scaup, redhead, and canvasback) in the sound and wading birds such as herons and egrets using the marshes for breeding and foraging.
Swanquarter National Wildlife Refuge Activities
Fishing
Anglers fishing from the Bell Island Pier and from the waters around the refuge may catch a wide variety of fish, including Atlantic croaker, spot, weakfish, spotted seatrout, Atlantic flounder, red drum, and bluefish. Crabbing is a popular activity during the warmer months.
Hunting
Waterfowl hunters who enjoy the challenge of hunting fast-flying diving ducks have a great public opportunity at Swanquarter NWR. The 6,120-acre hunt area is accessible by boat and open for waterfowl hunting during State seasons. Open-water hunting is not permitted; all boats must touch the marsh.
Wildlife watching
Swanquarter National Wildlife Refuge attracts a variety of wildlife throughout the year, including waterfowl, wading birds, shorebirds, and otters. Much of the refuge is accessible only by boat, with Bell Island Road and Pier offering land-based wildlife viewing opportunities.