City of Covington
House Sparrow, © Rob Bielawski
The independent city of Covington was settled in a wide spot of a narrow, deep valley, the place where the Jackson River takes its ninety degree turn to the east and soon becomes the mighty James. Fortunately for birders, the city has done a fine job making the Jackson accessible at multiple places to float or walk. In the winter, Bufflehead are ubiquitous on the river. Somewhat more surprisingly, American Black Ducks are also common. Ring-necked Ducks and Gadwall are also reliable. In 2014, a White-winged Scoter was photographed on the river near the Jackson River Sports Complex.
The Jackson River Sports Complex is the best place to walk along the river. The fields of the complex may also turn up migrating sparrows in the Fall. A Vesper Sparrow has been documented here. Main Street Park is a great place to look for Wood Ducks.
For woodland species, birders can park at the gate at the end of E. Cypress Street and hike the gravel road as it starts up Warm Springs Mountain. The city line extends almost to the end of the road. This can be a great place for migrating warblers.
No matter where you bird in Covington, keep your eyes and ears open for Common Raven. They are likely to be present.
A note on Chickadees. Covington is in the hybrid zone between Black-capped and Carolina Chickadees. Most, if not all, birds should be identified as “Carolina/Black-capped.”
—Brad Wood