What to Bring to Birdwatch on the Ferry
The Delaware Bay is a birdwatcher's paradise because it is one of the greatest places in the country to see a large and diverse collection of birds. Thankfully, the Ferry can put you right in the middle of the beautiful bird wonderland! On the Ferry, we've seen egrets, laughing gulls, osprey, gannets, the occasional bald eagle, and much more, since the bay is always flapping with flying wildlife. Whether you're an experienced birder, or just a traveler admiring the aviary display, here's what you'll need to birdwatch on the Ferry.
Beginner
If you're a beginner birdwatcher, enjoying all the birds that the bay has to offer doesn't take much at all. But, those summer days will leave you burnt without the proper sunscreen. This is always a necessity no matter what level birder you are! Check out our wildlife scorecard, available on deck, to keep track of all the marine life you see. Information includes what each species likes to snack on, what time of year is best to spot them and even a fun fact or two. Depending on the season, you'll see a variety of birds. In the springtime, an osprey couple typically lays three eggs by our Lewes Terminal, making for a great attraction! By the time summer comes around, the babies are hatched and ready to take their first flight.
Intermediate
If you've dabbled in bird watching, bringing a backpack is a great idea to keep your hands free for holding binoculars or a camera. In the Springtime, hundreds of thousands of migrating shore birds feast on new horseshoe crab eggs that line the Delaware Bay shoreline. You may be able to spot the Red Knot that breeds as far north as Canada. In order to spot some of these migrating birds we suggest that any intermediate birder to bring a field guide to spot the variety of species. We also advise birders to wear long pants and closed toes shoes when exploring any wetlands and marshes.
Expert
If you're an expert birdwatcher, chances are you don't need us to tell you what to bring along! You may already have one or more field guides and own a pair of binoculars. If you're bringing a camera, we also recommend a tripod for stability when the boat is rocking.
No matter your skill level, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry provides 360-degree views of Delaware Bay wildlife like you've them never seen before. Stop on either side to experience the natural habitat of Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware or Cape May Point State Park in New Jersey. The biodiversity on the a Delaware Bay attracts visitors from all over to explore our wetlands, beaches and woodlands.
