Friends of Prime Hook Events

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.

Talking Trash

Saturday, April 11, 11:00 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. (including Q&A)

The Delaware Solid Waster Authority (DSWA) will discuss how they manage waste through their facilities, single-stream recycling, and their special recycling programs. DSWA also will discuss why recycling is important and how we can all be good stewards, assuring waste ends up in the right place. 

Registration is required; click on the button below to register.

What About Those Binoculars?!

Saturday, April 25, 1:00 p.m., PHNWR Multipurpose Room

Any idea how to choose the right pair of binoculars for yourself? How do you decide what magnification, field of view, close focus, overall weight, interpupillary distance (distance between pupils of the eyes), waterproof, fog proof...and of course, price. There is all this - and a lot more - to think about when you are ready to purchase a pair of binoculars.

We will be covering all the above binocular basics plus more - AND, you will have an opportunity to try varied types, brands, and sizes of binoculars to start to get a feel for what is out there. (We'll do that on the patio if weather allows.) 

There will be plenty of time for questions. Feel free to bring your current pair of binoculars for review!  

Wandering Refuge Ambassador

Saturdays: April 25, May 9, May 23, June 13, and June 27

11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

WEATHER PERMITTING

Look for John Knapp on either the Dike Trail or Boardwalk Trail, where he will be available to help you with bird identification, refuge information, instruction, and more. John has been enjoying birds for over 35 years, both here and abroad. For many years, he led beginner bird walks for New Jersey Audoban, National Audobon, and New Jersey Fish & Wildlife. He has participated in numerous Christmas bird counts, bird nesting surveys, and hawk watches in his home state of New Jersey. 

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.  

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.