Birdwatching at Lake Mattamuskeet, North Carolina

Tundra Swan and Canada Goose

In November, we visited the Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge to observe the Tundra Swans in their wintering grounds. It seemed by the numbers and behavior, that the swans were just arriving at that time. We made plans to come back and see larger numbers of birds in the midst of their winter stay.

Over this past weekend (January 27), we made that trip back to this shallow lake where Tundra swans and other migrating birds enjoy a milder winter than in their summer homes.

Tundra Swan and Canadian Geese

Our favorite observation spots are along an impoundment road. There are canals on either side of the road with marsh grasses for cover and feeding. Although the number of swans were not any greater in this area than during our November visit, their attitude seemed more relaxed, which allowed closer photography.

Flock of American Coots

It was a real treat to see large numbers of American Coots with their distinctive bobbing head and white beaks. I had recently learned that these birds have green feet and legs. They seem to be shy about showing their feet because any lakeside birds immediately scooted into the water on my approach. At such distances their green legs were just black and green blurs.

Northern Shoveler - Female

Northern Shovelers were also shy about showing their beautiful plumage(male) and hid among the grasses. A large flock of egrets had gathered in the impoundment. A fearless Nutria swam towards us and grazed along and on the canal shoreline.

Tundra Swans gathering in cotton field

As we explored other areas of the lake, more swans were visible feeding in the waters. Small flocks would take to the air to destinations we could only guess at. We were told the water levels were higher than optimum for the swans to reach the underwater grasses, and that many were foraging in nearby fields. We didn't see swans in fields traveling to the lake, but that afternoon, as we traveled west, we witnessed hundreds gathering in a cotton field.

This is a fun place for birdwatching. It is remote so be sure to pack provisions. There's a wonderful visitor's center with a souvenir shop and restrooms plus displays and brochures to help with wildlife identification. On the drive, we made a quick visit to historic Bath, NC, which is famous as a home of Blackbeard the pirate. The town of Belhaven has fast food and groceries. Further west from Mattamuskeet, the Washington waterfront is a nice spot for dinner.

The article on my November visit to Lake Mattamuskeet is here.

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