A Quick Start Guide to High-Elevation Birding in Grayson County

In the Blue Ridge Mountains, Grayson County, Virginia is truly a hidden treasure for birding enthusiasts.

Elevations soar over 5,500 feet at Mount Rogers, the state’s highest peak, offering visitors opportunities to see bird species rarely seen in Virginia.

High-elevation habitats and cooler, northern-like climates serve as havens for high-altitude birds, like the red-breasted nuthatch and yellow-rumped warbler.

“Warblers are a big draw,” says Allen Boynton, a retired wildlife biologist who lives in Troutdale. Some birders are even a little bit obsessed with warblers.

Where to Go Birdwatching

In Grayson County, open balds and rare spruce-fir forests – more commonly found in the Adirondacks – create an environment unlike anywhere else in Virginia.

Grayson Highlands State Park and Mount Rogers National Recreation Area are sought-after destinations for birders in search of high-altitude bird species.

Among birders, these are birdwatching “hotspots,” public birding locations with good habitats that attract a variety of bird species in Grayson County.

For those new to birdwatching, eBird is a valuable tool that makes it easy to pinpoint top birding locations. Here’s how to use it:

* Visit www.ebird.org and click the “Explore” tab on the top-level navigation bar.

* Enter Grayson, Virginia in the “Explore Regions” search box.

* Select “Hotspots” on the left-hand navigation menu to see a list of the best birding locations in the county, as reported by actual birders.

* Click on Grayson Highlands State Park, one of the area’s most popular birding destinations, then select “Species” to see a list of birds recorded in the park.

At Grayson Highlands, the Rhododendron Trail and Cabin Creek Trail are easy trails that offer quick access to prime birding locations within the park.

Winter Bird Species

Among the bird species that have been spotted in winter in Grayson County, including Grayson Highlands State Park, are:

* Pine Siskin: Often seen in small, chatty flocks or flitting through treetops searching for seeds.

* Black-capped Chickadee: A lively and vocal little songbird bird that prefers higher elevations.

* Dark-eyed Junco: A winter favorite, often foraging on the ground or perched on low branches.

* Common Grackle: With its iridescent plumage, this bird stands out against the winter landscape.

* Golden-crowned Kinglet: Tiny but tough, this energetic bird flies through conifer branches, flashing its bright yellow crown.

Tuning In: Listening to Birds

If you’re new to birding, like me, you might not know what exactly to look – or listen – for. That’s where the free Merlin app becomes an absolute game-changer.

The first time I used Merlin, I was blown away. It’s incredibly easy to use, too. Just open the app, press the green “Sound” button, and let Merlin go to work.

The app listens to your surroundings in real-time and instantly identifies bird songs and calls, displaying the species it hears.

Even better, the app highlights in yellow the bird that’s currently singing, making it easier for you to connect the sound with the bird species.

Merlin also records you entire listening session, so you can go back and review what you heard, as well as re-visit the birds you encountered on any given day.

I tested out Merlin while hiking the Birding Trail at Matthews State Forest, and it was a thrill every time the app picked up a new bird call.

If you prefer visuals, Merlin can also identify bird species from your photos. The Explore tab shows what birds are likely to be in your area at any given time.

Essential Birding Tips

For a successful birdwatching session, I’ve gathered a few essential tips to help you make the most of your time outside.

* Time Your Visit. Birds are most active early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Spring and fall migrations bring an even greater diversity of species.

* Use Your Ears. Many birds are easier to identify by sound rather than by sight. The free Merlin app can help identify bird species for you by their songs.  

* Be Patient. High-elevation birding requires stillness and time. Find a good spot and let the birds come to you.

* Dress in Layers. The weather in high-elevation areas can change rapidly. Wear moisture-wicking and insulating layers to stay warm and comfortable.

* Respect the Habitat. Stick to trails, avoid disturbing nesting sites, and minimize noise when you are out in nature.

Must-Have Birding Gear

Before heading out, make sure you have the right gear to make your birdwatching experience both enjoyable and successful. Here are a few must-haves:

* Binoculars. A quality pair of birdwatching binoculars is key for spotting birds perched high in the spruce-fir forests or gliding across open meadows.

* Field Guide or Birding App. The free Merlin is key for quick identification, but a field guide, like North American Bird Watching for Beginners, is also helpful.

* Notebook & Pencil. Jot down sightings, bird behaviors, or any interesting observations. If you prefer digital notes, the Notes app on your phone works well.

* Camera with Zoom Lens. Birds can be elusive. A camera with a zoom lens will help you capture clear images of flying or distant birds.

* Sturdy Hiking Boots. Some Grayson County birding locations may require hiking on uneven terrain. A pair of hiking boots will keep you steady on your feet.

* Water & Snacks.  Birdwatching can take you deep into the wilderness, so staying hydrated and fueled is key, especially for longer outings.

* Bug Spray & Sunscreen. Sunscreen is essential year-round, and once the insects return, bug spray will help keep mosquitoes at bay.

* Weatherproof Jacket. High-elevation birding can mean unpredictable weather. A waterproof jacket can keep you dry in case of a sudden mountain shower.

Final Thoughts

Grayson County’s high-elevation landscapes offer a one-of-a-kind birding experience, featuring species rarely found elsewhere in Virginia.

Whether you’re watching a golden-crowned kinglet flit among the spruce trees or listening to the call of a winter wren, each birding outing is unique and rewarding.

So grab your field guide, lace up your boots, and set out for a birding adventure in Grayson County, Virginia.