To date, over 275 species of birds have been observed on the WMA, and it is considered a key habitat for migrating and wintering waterfowl as well as shorebirds and songbirds alike. Furthermore, it is a well-known concentration area for bald eagles where nesting occurs on an annual basis.
The DWR’s Marsh Cam went live in the fall of 2022 with the goal of connecting students across the state to the unique tidal-marsh ecosystems of the James River. In addition to supporting the camera, the DWR continues to manage Hog Island for the provision of wildlife-related recreational opportunities as well as for the benefit of the many species that depend on its wetlands.