Laura Lee or Becky Webb, Fort Delaware State Park, 302-834-7941; or Necia Beck, Delaware State Parks, 302-739-9175 or necia.beck@state.de.us

A Day of Herons on Pea Patch Island

DELAWARE CITY (July 1, 2011) – The Heronry on Pea Patch Island supports one of the largest populations of wading birds on the East Coast.  On July 2, the staff at Fort Delaware State Park, located on Pea Patch Island, invites the public to bring a picnic lunch or buy lunch at the fort’s food concession to eat in the Mess Hall while enjoying a special program, “The Care and Treatment of Pea Patch Heronry” at 1 p.m.

Visitors will hear how the Pea Patch Heronry is carefully monitored to determine the success of the nesting herons, egrets and ibises.  Topics such as the heronry’s history, its successes and some of the challenges facing this protected site will be presented.

Visitors will work up an appetite and get background on the heronry with the “Herons and History Walk,” a special guided tour at 11:30 a.m. The tour includes a round-trip walk from the fort’s sally port to the north end of the island, where more than 10,000 herons, egrets and other birds nest. Along the way, guides will discuss the history of the island. Binoculars and insect repellant are recommended.

Both programs are offered free of charge.  Access to Pea Patch Island is by ferry from either Delaware City or Fort Mott, New Jersey.  Ferry tickets cost $11 for adults, $6 for children 2 through 12 and $10 for seniors and Active Duty Military (with ID). Children under 2 are admitted free of charge.

Ferry reservations are suggested, but visitors may purchase tickets on a first-come, first-served basis. Ferry reservations may be made by calling 1-877- 987-2757 or visiting www.destateparks.com. Tickets may only be reserved 24 hours in advance.

Vol. 41, No. 248