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The gates of Prime Hook NWR are open every day of the year from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset.
The administrative office is open M-F from 8am-4:30pm. The Hooked on Nature Store is open M-F from 9am-4pm and Saturday and Sunday from 11am-3pm or when the OPEN flag is flying. Both are closed on federal holidays.
Questions? Contact us at 302-684-8419.
First Saturday Guided Bird Walks with Sussex Bird Club
NOTE: Rain or snow cancels this event.
Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the parking lot at the end of Turkle Pond Road.
Join members of the Sussex Bird Club monthly* on the first Saturday for a 90+ minute guided bird walk on the Dike and Boardwalk Trails. For your comfort, dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. The group leaders will have a scope for long-distance viewing, but feel free to bring your own scope, binoculars, and camera.
*Walks will not be held in July or August.
Friends of Prime Hook Nature Book Club
Wednesday, January 28, 6:30 p.m., PHNWR Multipurpose Room
The Friends of Prime Hook Nature Book Club meets about every 6 weeks on Wednesday evening to discuss the group's latest selection. Join us in January to discuss Nevada Barr's first Anna Pigeon mystery, Track of the Cat. This gripping mystery is set in the Western desert and in the rugged Guadalupe Mountains. It's available in the Delaware library system.
If time allows, discussion may include the book chosen prior to the government shutdown: Becoming Odyssa, Jennifer Pharr Davis's story of her adventures on the Appalachian Trail.
Registration is required; click the button below to register.
Nighttime Trail Walks
Nancy Cunningham will lead occasional night walks along trails and other areas of the refuge. Nancy is an experienced birder who has spent years learning about the wildlife of the night from area naturalist Julie McCall. Nancy's walks will involve listening to the seasonal night sounds around the refuge: owls, woodcocks, frogs, and the simple rustling of leaves. Nancy is excited to share with others what she's learned from Julie. Watch our Facebook page for information about Nancy's next walk.
Refuge Listening Sessions
Julie McCall is a naturalist who has guided night walks and other programs at the refuge for many years. In 2026 she will be leading evening listening sessions at various places in the refuge. These sessions are for anyone who prefers walking slowly or doing a "sit," where they can spend some time sitting quietly and connecting with the nighttime world of Prime Hook. Julie will teach the group how to identify what's making the sounds of the night, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. Watch our Facebook page for information about Julie's next session.
Purple Martins at Prime Hook
Each year, beginning in April and after the Purple Martins have formed pairs, the Prime Hook Purple Martin team begins weekly "nest checks" monitoring the colony to track egg laying, development of the young, and fledging, while also looking for parasites and predators. Prime Hook welcomes interested people to view and/or assist with the nest checks. No previous experience is necessary. Be warned: You may end up falling in love with these amazing birds and start a colony of your own! Watch this space for updates as spring arrives and the nest check schedule is set.
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