Mannington Meadows
A prime spot for birdwatching, in-the-know birders head to Mannington Meadows to catch a glimpse of the bald eagles that have made a dramatic comeback in the region, or egrets, herons, songbirds and other species.
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If peace and quiet is high on your priority list, then Mannington Meadows should be, too. In fact, most days the only thing you’ll hear is the flapping of birds wings or the sounds of turtles and waterfowl splashing around in the marshy waters.

Mannington Meadows is one of the most important stopovers for migrant waterfowl and shorebirds. Large groups of Eastern Meadowlarks and Savannah Sparrows can be found during late winter. Bald Eagles, American Woodcocks, Northern Pintails, American Black Ducks, egrets, herons, cormorants, shorebirds, songbirds and other bird species are common visitors to Mannington Meadows. You can also spot birds of prey who cruise over from nearby Supawna Meadows to hunt for food here.

Probably the best way to experience Mannington is by canoe. Just load in at the launch in the northwestern part of the channel and paddle out to the middle of the wetlands which are formed by a confluence of the Salem River and several creeks in the area. But this is a tidal marsh so keep an eye on the tides or you might have to end up getting caught on a sandbar.

BRING THE FAMILY

If your kids are really into the outdoors or are low-maintenance and don't require a lot of amenities, such as indoor plumbing, diaper-changing tables or food stands, this is OK.  Otherwise, this might not hold their interest. 

COME PREPARED

If you have a portable GPS, bring it with you because there are few marking points along the trail. And during hunting season, be sure to wear an orange cap because there are hunters nearby.

WHO KNEW

In recent years, bald eagles have gradually been returning to South Jersey. In 2004, much to the delight of birders and conservationists, two eaglets hatched and left their nest, but sometimes still roam the area. 

VOLUNTEER

The Wildlife Conservation Corps is the Department of Fish and Wildlife's volunteer group that handles everything from research to office work.  To volunteer, log onto www.njfishandwildlife.com/wcchome.htm and download an application.

SUPPORT

The New Jersey Audubon Society is actively engaged in efforts to restore Mannington Meadows' grasslands.  To support their work, contact them at www.njaudubon.org.

LEAVE NO TRACE

Whatever your bring you, you'll have to take out.  There is no scheduled trash pick-up, so please do your part to keep this area clean and free of litter.

CONTACT INFO
Route 45 Woodstown Rd.
Woodstown, NJ 08098


http://www.njfishandwildlife.com
Primary County: Salem