Cumberland Marsh Natural Area Preserve is a gem along the Pamunkey River. Upon arriving at the main parking lot there are two trails. The trail to the right (northeast) is approximately a quarter of a mile long and ends in an overlook platform over dense wetlands surrounding the Pamunkey River. These wetlands are difficult to access but provide essential habitat for migratory Sora and wintering waterfowl. If a visit is planned in accordance with proper tides (see tide chart), observers may be fortunate to find small groups of shorebirds utilizing tidal mudflats. The observation platform offers a great evening setup to observe thousands of Red-winged Blackbirds flying to their evening roosts out in the marsh. The trail to the left offers a longer hike, hugging the banks of the Pamunkey River and bordering an agricultural field. The trail then enters a mature woodland consisting mainly of Sweet Gum and American Holly. In summer, the loop trail hosts Hooded Warblers, Ovenbirds, and Summer Tanagers. In spring and fall, it is a great place to search for migratory thrushes utilizing the dense holly.
For those interested in not only birds but insects, Cumberland Marsh Natural Area Preserve is the place for you. In the fall, wingstem is in golden bloom all along the left (southwestern) trail hosting large quantities of colorful insects including Long-tailed Skippers, Florida Stink Bugs, Cocklebur Weevils, and many other unique species. Scanning the edge of the field in early September often yields Fine-lined Emeralds, an uncommon coastal plain dragonfly. If that’s not enough, then scan the wild rice grass when on the observation platform at the end of the right (northeastern) trail and you might be lucky enough to see the rainbow-colored Handsome Meadow Katydids.
Owner/Manager: The Nature Conservancy, but managed in collaboration with Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation
eBird Hotspot: Cumberland Marsh Natural Area Preserve
—Andrew Rapp, January 2021