Mutton Hunk Fen Natural Area Preserve

This preserve protects a globally rare sea-level fen – one of only four in Virginia. Sea-level fens are open, freshwater wetlands located between uplands and wide, Oceanside tidal marshes. Natural springs at the upland edge provide fresh groundwater that sustain the freshwater wetland vegetation. In addition to the fen, the preserve contains 350 acres of migratory songbird habitat, 220 acres of which were restored from former farm fields.

Although visitors may not access the fen itself, due to the sensitivity of the habitat, the preserve offers visitors two walking trails through its restored migratory songbird habitat. One trail leads straight from the parking lot to an extensive saltmarsh overlooking Gargathy Bay with views of Metompkin and Wallops Islands. While at the marsh watch for shorebirds and winter waterfowl. Along the way are the former farm fields, planted in native shrubs and oaks to provide migratory songbird habitat, as well as breeding habitat for resident birds.

The other trail loops along White’s Creek and back to the parking lot, with an option to turn left towards the marsh. The creek provides abundant foraging habitat for wading birds.

Some of the commonly observed bird species at the Natural Area Preserve include northern bobwhite, greater yellowlegs, various gulls, great blue heron, great egret, northern harrier, bald eagle, red-tailed hawk, belted kingfisher, northern flicker, various sparrows, and eastern bluebird. Winter waterfowl include snow goose, American black duck, bufflehead, and hooded merganser.

Notes:

• This property is part of the VDCR Division of Natural Heritage State Natural Area Preserve System. Preserves can be closed periodically for management activities, please always check the DCR page for information prior to visiting this area.
• There are no facilities on site.
• There is no public access to the fen itself due to the sensitivity of the habitat.