Indian River Bay
Ecosystem Overview
The Indian River Bay ecosystem supports 70 documented wildlife species across 58 taxonomic genera. Located in sussex county, delaware, this area provides critical habitat with diverse natural communities. The location hosts 15 frequently observed species and 13 occasionally documented species, creating a balanced ecosystem with both resident and visiting wildlife. While Lewes nearby has 30% more documented species, Indian River Bay offers unique wildlife observation opportunities. This location ranks #7 for species diversity among 43 sussex county County natural areas, placing it in the 84th percentile for biodiversity.
Biodiversity Highlights
Species Distribution
Regional Context
Most Common Species
Showing 20 most frequently observed species out of 70 total documented species.
Bucephala albeola
Bufflehead
Mergus serrator
Red-breasted Merganser
Ardea herodias
Great Blue Heron
Gavia immer
great northern loon
Branta bernicla
dark-bellied brent goose
Ardea alba
Great Egret
Clangula hyemalis
long-tailed duck
Oxyura jamaicensis
Ruddy Duck
Pandion haliaetus
osprey
Lophodytes cucullatus
Hooded Merganser
Leucophaeus atricilla
Laughing Gull
Egretta thula
Snowy Egret
Nycticorax nycticorax
night heron, black-crowned night heron
Podiceps auritus
horned grebe
Podilymbus podiceps
Pied-billed grebe
Megaceryle alcyon
Belted Kingfisher
Melanitta americana
black scoter
Anas platyrhynchos
mallard
Diadumene lineata
Orange-striped anemone
Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Bald Eagle
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Nearby Wildlife Areas in Sussex County
Discover 8 other wildlife-rich locations near Indian River Bay. Each offers unique biodiversity and wildlife viewing opportunities.
🌿 Premier Wildlife Areas (4 nearby)
🦅 Rich Wildlife Destinations (2 nearby)
🌱 Specialized Habitats (2 nearby)
Regional Wildlife Network
These nearby locations complement Indian River Baywithin Sussex County's wildlife network. Species counts reflect documented observations and help identify the most biodiverse areas for your nature explorations.