The Canary of the Swamp

Prothonotary warbler on the North Landing River.

The North Landing River is a beautiful, tranquil blackwater river on which to experience spring in the wetlands of southeastern Virginia. Bright green marsh grasses, sedges and rushes emerge from the black muck and peat along with vibrant, colorful flowers such as the Virginia iris, pickerelweed, and evening primrose. Anadromous species including the alewife and blueback herring leave the oceans and seek out the still, dark waters to spawn while ospreys arrive to feed on the plentiful fishes of this blackwater river. The arrival of the prothonotary warblers illuminates the swamps and pocosins with their exuberant yellows. Once called the golden swamp warbler or the canary of the swamp, these small continental travellers arrive from Central and South America each spring and brighten the wetlands with their color and their song. 

Schedule your ecotour with Moore To See Photo Expeditions to explore this environmental wonderland.