Several refuges have submerged aquatic vegetation which attracts ducks such as teal, mallards, black ducks, pintail, shovelers, ruddy ducks and others. Many of these areas include sandbars and marshy areas where snow geese congregate by the hundreds or thousands. Canals and smaller impoundments also attract ducks, herons, egrets, coots and other shorebirds.

Not to be overlooked by Virginia birdwatching enthusiasts are outlooks such as piers and bridges. Many of these structures offer excellent views of the Chesapeake Bay and the ocean, with a variety of geese, brant, ducks and other birds feeding nearby. Winter beach walkers will also find a variety of birds and wildlife, with sandpipers, gulls and ocean going bird sightings being common.

Virginia fishing piers and bridges include structures such as the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel and the Virginia Beach, Ocean View and Little Island fishing piers.