Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge

Each winter, tens of thousands of tundra swans migrate from the arctic regions of Alaska and western Canada to eastern North Carolina. I spent the day near Pungo Lake in the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge recently, an area where the tundra swans congregate in large numbers. Farmers plant crops on huge fields within the Refuge, and when they harvest their crops, they must leave 20 percent unharvested for the birds. The swans spend their days traveling from field to field foraging. They spend their nights on the water, where they are safe from predators.

It took a few attempts to get a shot with the moon and some swans, but I finally got this shot.

I spent the day near Pungo Lake in the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge in eastern North Carolina recently. The low-lying areas in the Refuge are comprised of fields used for agriculture, and canals that drain the area. This was taken along one of the canals in the refuge.

These are redwing blackbirds in a field near Pungo Lake in the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. Farmers plant crops on huge fields within the Refuge, and when they harvest their crops, they must leave 20 percent unharvested for migratory birds, primarily tundra swans. The blackbirds have obviously discovered this source of food, and can be seen in this area in flocks that must number in the tens of thousands. These birds were responding to a hawk flying nearby.

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Activities

Popular places to visit

Somerset Place

You can study the exhibits at Somerset Place, a museum with a story of its own, during your travels to Creswell. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Lake Phelps

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lake Phelps during your travels in Creswell. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Dowry Creek Marina

Explore the waterfront in Belhaven with a trip to Dowry Creek Marina. Amble around the area's parks or experience its museums.

Palmetto-Peartree Preserve

Explore the great outdoors at Palmetto-Peartree Preserve, a lovely green space in Columbia. Make some time to visit the shops while you're in the area.

Tyrrell County Visitor Center

After visiting Tyrrell County Visitor Center, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Columbia. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Vineyards On The Scuppernong

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Vineyards On The Scuppernong during your travels to Columbia. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

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