Welcome to the web site of the Northern Neck Audubon Society (NNAS). The term 'neck' is an old English word for peninsula. The Northern Neck is the peninsula of Virginia formed by the Potomac River to the north, the Rappahannock River to the south and the Chesapeake Bay to the east. This area contains some of the most diverse habitats in Virginia, including open fields, hilly woodlands, tidal rivers, fresh and salt marshes, open marine environments and transitional watersheds.
The Northern Neck has over 460 bird species. Some of them are resident species, and others stop over here temporarily during spring and fall migration. The birds range from tiny hummingbirds to the impressive Tundra Swans. The area is home to the largest nesting area on the east coast for Bald Eagles, and there are shorebirds and waterfowl of every description. The climate of the Northern Neck is such that the region forms the southernmost range for many northern bird species including warblers, orioles, tanagers, vireos and flycatchers and also the northernmost range for southern birds like the Brown Pelican, White Ibis and others. The seasons bring a very wide variety of ever changing species. Come join us for one of our many regularly scheduled bird walks and enjoy some of the unique natural treasures of the Northern Neck.
Our programs and walks are listed on this web site and are posted in the local newspapers. There are no fees to participate, and we welcome all interested visitors or members to join us on our outings. You can be a first time birder or an avid veteran: all are welcome. We try to provide a casual birding experience in a friendly manner at many different locations representing various habitat types. You may also want to sign up for our free birding hotline and get the latest news on current sightings. Our Chapter meetings are held the first Monday of the month (October through June) at 7:00 PM at Grace Episcopal Church on Main Street in Kilmarnock. Each of these meetings hosts a program speaker who is expert on some aspect of birds or other related species.
There are many opportunities to become more involved with the NNAS Chapter as a volunteer, member of the Board of Directors, or bird walk leader. We are always looking for interested individuals who want to help in any capacity.
Thanks for your interest in the NNAS. We look forward to seeing you at one of our upcoming events.
Mike Andrews
President
Northern Neck Audubon Society