The Top 250 North American Birding Hot Spots
By Peter W. Thayer
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Pete Thayer (circa 1990) looking for the Tamaulipas Crow --
found in the US only at the Brownsville, Texas city dump!
As you become interested in seeing more birds, you soon realize you need to visit different habitats. You have to go find the birds -- they are not going to come to you! Your state or province has dozens of birding locations you will want to explore. Below we have listed 250 of the top birding spots in North America. How many have you visited? What are you waiting for?
ALABAMA
Dauphin Island / Fort Morgan
30.14 N 88.02 W
These islands in the Gulf of Mexico can be a spectacular spot -- especially during migration or just after a hurricane! These two sites, a ferry ride apart, rank right up there with Rockport or High Island, Texas.
Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge / Guntersville Lake
34.52 N 86.94 W
The lake (actually a wide spot in the Tennessee River) is the best spot in Alabama to find 60,000 wintering ducks, grebes and loons. Bald Eagles can be seen near the dam.
ALASKA
Attu Island
53.00 N 173.60 E
You can see the end of the world from here. Rare migrants for those trying to see 700 birds in North America. Outward bound type conditions -- for the truly possessed birder only!
Barrow
71.20 N 156.60 W
Not much diversity, but what is here is spectacular. All four Eiders including Spectacled Eider and Steller's Eider. Breeding plumaged Sandpipers and Phalaropes are here, too.
Chilkat River
59.30 N 135.00 W
See thousands of Bald Eagles near Skagway from October through January as they assemble here to feast on salmon.
Copper River Delta
60.50 N 144.90 W
Would you believe 20 million shorebirds and waterfowl a month moving through during spring migration!! Be there at the end of April and the beginning of May.
Denali National Park (Mt. McKinley)
62.48 N 150.15 W
Arctic Warbler, Ptarmigans, Northern Goshawk, Gyrfalcon, and Northern Wheatear are all possible. Good birding between Talkeetna and the park. Inside Denali, travel is by shuttle-bus. You will see lots of mammals, too.
Kenai Peninsula (Anchorage-Homer)
59.39 N 151.33 W
A 240 mile drive full of northern specialties. Watch for Boreal Chickadee, Bohemian Waxwing and Spruce Grouse in Chugach National Forest. Red-faced Cormorants, all 3 Scoters, and Wandering Tattler at Kachemak Bay.
Nome
64.40 N 165.20 W
Fly into Nome in early June. You will have 22 hours of daylight for birding! Look for Glaucous Gull, Black-legged Kittiwake and Arctic Tern along the waterfront. Try Taylor Road (beyond Mile 73) for Bluethroat and Bristle-thighed Curlew.
Pribilof Islands
57.10 N 170.30 W
St. Paul Island is your destination. You are almost sure to find a fantastic Asian migrant plus Parakeet, Crested and Least Auklets. Watch for McKay's Bunting, Bar-tailed Godwit, and Rock Sandpiper.
St. Lawrence Island (Gambell)
63.70 N 171.70 W
Perpetual inclement weather. Many Asian strays and semi-regular migrants. Perhaps you will see Yellow-billed and Arctic Loon; Spectacled Eider; Wagtails; Ross's and Ivory Gull; or a Red-throated Pipit.
ALBERTA
Banff National Park / Lake Louise
51.51 N 116.11 W
One of the most beautiful spots in the Canadian Rockies. Over 260 species have been recorded here. Birding is good even in the winter. Look for Clark's Nutcrackers, Black-capped, Boreal and Mountain Chickadees.
Elk Island National Park / Beaverhill Lake
53.60 N 112.81 W
Located 25 miles east of Edmonton, the park is a series of small hills with wetlands between them. There is a Snow Goose festival in the spring and fall, but it is a great place at all times for birding.
Clifford E. Lee Nature Sanctuary
53.44 N 113.77 W
Southwest of Edmonton, this sanctuary has been designated as one of Alberta's "Special Places". Trails wind their way through marshes, sand hills, meadows and aspen and pine woods. May through August are the best times to visit.
Drumheller / Newell Lake
50.51 N 111.94 W
Near Brooks, Alberta, this is a fantastic area for birds. American White Pelicans and American Avocets can be found here in the summer.
Jasper National Park
52.71 N 117.53 W
This huge National Park is high in the Canadian Rockies. Habitat ranges from alpine meadows and tundra to forested valleys. Visit Talbot Lake for waterfowl and Cottonwood Slough for Owls. Go from late March through September.
ARIZONA
Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum
32.18 N 111.03 W
A museum and botanical garden in one -- a great spot for birders and non-birders alike. The botanical gardens, west of Tucson, attract desert species. Look for Verdin, Gilded Flickers and Gila Woodpeckers.
Cave Creek Canyon / Chiricahua Mountains
31.52 N 109.09 W
This is one of THE most exciting birding spots in North America according to many. South Fork Trail may yield Elegant Trogon or Flame-colored Tanager. There is great "owling" and lots of rare hummingbirds here as well.
Madera Canyon / Santa Rita Mountains
31.42 N 110.52 W
Magnificent Hummingbirds and magnificent birding. On everyone's top 10 list. Buff-collared Nightjar, Cassin's and Botteri's Sparrows at Florida Wash. Arizona (Strickland's) Woodpecker higher up the mountain. Elf Owls nest at the lodge.
Patagonia/Sonoita Creek
31.35 N 110.45 W
Patagonia is famous for its roadside rest area. Watch for Gray Hawk, Thick-Billed Kingbird, and Rose-throated Becard. Sonoita Creek Sanctuary (open Wed-Sun) is one of the best birding spots in Arizona! Look here for Violet-crowned Hummingbirds.
Ramsey Canyon / Huachuca Mountains
31.29 N 110.20 W
World famous for the variety and quantity of Hummingbirds. Go in July or August. Sit and marvel. Black-chinned, Magnificent, Blue-throated, Broad-billed and maybe even Violet-crowned Hummingbird. One of the top 10 spots in North America.
Rustler Park
31.50 N 109.17 W
The road between Onion Saddle and Rustler Park is great for higher-elevation species like Mexican Chickadee, Olive, Grace's and Red-faced Warbler. Hike the Barfoot Peak Trail at Rustler Park.
San Pedro River
31.32 N 110.11 W
Seven miles east of Ramsey Canyon, this riparian habitat is great for Green Kingfisher, Vermilion Flycatcher and, with luck, Tropical Kingbird. Walk north across the river for Gray Hawks.
Sedona / Oak Creek Canyon
35.02 N 111.45 W
One of the loveliest spots in North America. The red cliffs of Sedona make a perfect backdrop to the birds flying overhead. Yes, there are birds in other parts of Arizona besides the southeast corner! Stop here on your way to the Grand Canyon.
Sycamore Canyon / California Gulch
31.23 N 111.17 W
HOT, HOT, HOT. The hike to Hell looking for Five-striped Sparrow will seem more fun looking back than it does at the time. Take WATER and a 4-wheel drive.
ARKANSAS
Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge
33.15 N 92.14 W
Wintering waterfowl like the rivers, lakes and streams here. The area is flooded from November through early June. The bottomland hardwood forests are a major stopping point for migrating songbirds.
Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge
35.20 N 93.14 W
This is the place to be during the winter. Snow Geese and Bald Eagles are here. Raptors are easy to spot. In spring and summer look for Scissor-tailed Flycatchers and Lark Sparrows.
Lake Chicot State Park
34.41 N 90.74 W
This is the largest oxbow lake in the country. Restoration in the 1970s saved the lake and it is now a great birding spot. Large wading birds are everywhere. Warblers in migration are easy to see as well.
Ouachita National Forest
34.48 N 94.06 W
The US Forest Service's Buffalo Road Demonstration Area, 7 miles south of Waldron, is a great spot for Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Bachman's Sparrow and Brown-headed Nuthatch.
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Mount Revelstoke National Park
51.19 N 118.00 W
This 100 square mile park includes snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows. There are 40 miles of hiking trails nut the 16 mile drive up the mountain is best for birders. Late June is the best time to visit.
Vancouver / Reifel Bird Sanctuary / Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
49.10 N 123.08 W
The Reifel sanctuary is a key spot during shorebird migration with many rare species found here. The last Crested Myna, an Asian bird temporarily established here, died in 2003. Northwest Crow is everywhere. Take the ferry across the Strait to Vancouver Island and watch for Sooty Shearwater, Northern Fulmar, Fork-tailed Storm-petrel or a Jaeger. Look for Sky Lark at the south edge of the Victoria International Airport.
CALIFORNIA
Arcata Marsh / Humbolt Bay
40.85 N 124.19 W
Wetland birds are abundant from October thorough May. The extensive trails make birding a pleasure here. The Humbolt Bay National Wildlife Refuge has great views of the bay and its birds.
Elkhorn Slough / Moss Landing
36.49 N 121.44 W
One of the top 3 Christmas Bird Count areas each year. Shorebirds galore at the Slough. Check the Moon Glow Dairy Farm for Tri-colored Blackbirds. Eat an artichoke fritter in Castroville.
Joshua Tree / Big Morongo
34.02 N 116.31 W
Combine the Mojave Desert with an oasis here and there and you get BIRDS! Bendire's Thrasher, Ladder-backed Woodpecker and Scott's Oriole can be seen. An excellent spot during migration. Many eastern vagrants accidentally end up here.
Klamath Basin
41.56 N 121.41 W
Six national wildlife refuges in southern Oregon and northern California attract waterfowl and, in the winter, Bald Eagles. The Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge and Lake Tule National Wildlife Refuge are perhaps the best in winter.
Mono Lake
37.95 N 119.18 W
Mono Lake is famed for summer and fall migrants as well as the strange rock deposits left behind by falling water levels. You may be lucky enough to see a California Gull!
Monterey Bay
36.36 N 121.53 W
Pelagic (open ocean) trips run by Shearwater Journeys will be looking for Flesh-footed and Buller's Shearwaters; Ashy and Black Storm-Petrels. The "regular" species are likely to add half a dozen birds to your life list! Whales are always a possibility.
Morro Bay
35.34 N 120.85 W
Peregrines, Merlins, Snowy Plover, Eurasian Wigeon, Brant, and a 200 species Christmas Count. 122 species seen in one day, without moving! Stop at nearby Montana de Oro State Park for Hutton's Vireo, Chestnut-backed Chickadee and more (best in August through November and in winter, bring your scope and scan the ocean).
Upper Newport Bay
33.38 N 117.53 W
Look for the endangered California Gnatcatcher in the brushy areas surrounding the Slough -- before the developers get them! This is a wonderful spot that needs to be protected!
Point Reyes / Bodega Bay
38.00 N 122.58 W
This is such a great spot they built a Bird Observatory here! This natural migrant trap has good birding all year around. Something really rare seems to turn up every year.
Salton Sea
33.05 N 115.41 W
An absolutely UNBELIEVABLE experience any time of year! This huge oasis in the middle of the desert attracts millions of birds in the winter! The south end is best for birds like Shorebirds, Burrowing Owls and Mountain Plover. Take a friend and Cher the experience as you look for Yellow-footed Gull during the hot, Sonny, smelly summer.
San Diego / Tijuana Slough
32.41 N 117.17 W
An early September pelagic (open ocean) trip may let you see Black and Least Storm-Petrels and Craveri's and Xantus's Murrelets. Clapper Rails are at Tijuana Slough. Point Loma can be a great spot during migration.
San Francisco Bay
37.48 N 122.28 W
Seabirds flying over the water. Rails and other marsh birds at the southern end of the bay. Over 250 species and up to 800,000 waterbirds at one time. San Francisco is an ideal vacation spot for the entire family. It is OK to leave your heart here, but don't leave your binoculars!
Santa Barbara
34.25 N 119.43 W
With over 430 birds recorded here, birders will think they died and went to heaven. The San Ynez mountains and the Pacific Ocean combine for exceptional birding -- especially in winter. Yellow-billed Magpies are common in the foothills near Nojoqui Falls Park.
Yosemite National Park
37.44 N 119.42 W
Tourists come for the scenery. Birders see all that plus some spectacular birds as they move off the beaten path. Look for Great Grey Owls, Northern Pygmy-Owls, Williamson's Sapsucker, American Dipper and Red Crossbills. Black Swifts nest at Bridalveil Falls.
COLORADOColorado National Monument39.10 N 108.92 W
Beautiful red sandstone cliffs are home to birds that prefer arid lands and Pinyon/Juniper pines. Stop at Devil's Kitchen picnic area and Saddlehorn Campground.
Fountain Creek Regional Park
38.24 N 104.17 W
Good riparian habitat here can be very productive during migration. Watch for Lazuli Bunting and Lesser Goldfinch. The marsh has Wood Duck, Sora and Virginia Rail.
Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge
37.47 N 106.16 W
Mid-March is the time to see the Sandhill Cranes.Later in May the waterfowl and rails begin the breeding season. In summer the pond edges are very productive. Wintering raptors make this a great spot any time of the year.
Pawnee National Grassland
40.45 N 104.19 W
Look for Mountain Plover, Brewer's Sparrow and Lark Bunting plus Ferruginous Hawk and McCown's Longspur. A visit in June is ideal -- the birds are singing and the wildflowers are in bloom.
Rocky Mountain Park / Golden Gate Canyon Park
40.23 N 105.38 W
A real Rocky Mountain high! Blue Grouse, Three-toed Woodpecker, Clark's Nutcracker, Red Crossbill, White-tailed Ptarmigan and Rosy-Finches. Black Swift in the summer
CONNECTICUT
Audubon Center in Greenwich
41.02 N 73.63 W
This 522 acre sanctuary is a great spot for beginning birders and is good almost any time of the year.
Hammonasset Beach State Park
41.26 N 72.55 W
Over 285 species have been seen here. Visit in the spring, summer or fall. Follow the 3/4 mile trail around the salt marsh to see many of the birds.
Lighthouse Point Park
41.22 N 72.91 W
Watch for Hawks overhead in the fall from this spot, near New Haven. The surrounding woods are also very good for fall migrants.
Milford Point
41.24 N 72.78 W
This is one of the best spot for birds in the state. Of the 400+ species known in Connecticut, over 300 have been recorded here or nearby. Very good for shorebird and waterfowl migrations. Fall landbird migrations can be very good, though recent habitat loss has hurt.
White Memorial Conservation Center
41.73 N 73.23 W
35 miles of trails and interesting 4,000 acres of interesting habitat make this the best birding spot in northwest Connecticut.
DELAWARE
Delaware Bay / Bombay Hook NWR
39.17 N 75.26 W
It is estimated that over 500,000 Red Knots, Sanderlings, Ruddy Turnstones, Semipalmated Sandpipers and Dunlin gather here in late May to eat the Horseshoe Crab eggs. Try Reed's Beach, NJ, too.
White Clay Creek State Park
39.74N 75.78 W
The woods are full of singing songbirds in April and May. Cerulean Warblers nest here.
FLORIDA
Corkscrew Swamp
26.25 N 81.34 W
A boardwalk through the swamp will let you get up close and personal with birds and other critters. Watch for Wood Stork and Limpkin.
Dry Tortugas
24.38 N 82.55 W
Fantastic in late April. Almost anything can show up inside Fort Jefferson during spring migration. Magnificent Frigatebirds and Brown Noddies nest nearby. Watch for Black Noddies. Bridled Terns are likely on the boat trip back to Key West.
Everglades National Park
25.15 N 80.50 W
Anhinga Trail, Snake Bight Trail, and Eco Pond. Watch for Roseate Spoonbill, Purple Gallinule and Short-tailed Hawk. Mosquitoes over 6 inches in length may be counted on your bird life list.
Florida Keys
24.42 N 81.23 W
Look for White-crowned Pigeon, Gray Kingbird and Mangrove Cuckoo as you bird your way down to Key West. Try the airport there at dusk for Antillean Nighthawk.
Fort Myers Beach/Estero
26.43 N 81.91 W
In back of the Holiday Inn is one of the best spots to photograph shorebirds in Florida. The lagoon and mudflats are full of interesting birds during migration and all winter long. Wade out to the Gulf beach. If the traffic to Sanibel Island makes you crazy, try visiting here instead. Go early before the sunbathers show up.
Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge
26.28 N 80.13 W
Purple Gallinule, Smooth-billed Ani and Limpkin are possible here. Try landfill at west end of 45th street in West Palm Beach for Snail Kite. Swing by Jonathan Dickinson State Park to see Florida Scrub-Jay.
Merrit Island National Wildlife Refuge
28.38 N 80.43 W
Where else can you see space shuttle launches and Mottled Duck at the same time? Over 150 species on the Christmas Bird Count including over 20 species of Ducks. Snowbirds welcome!
"Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge
26.46 N 82.06 W
Drive the loop to see Herons, Egrets, Roseate Spoonbills and alligators! BIG BIRDS that are RIGHT THERE! One of the top birding spots in North America. Take the kids and grandma. Eat lunch at the Mucky Duck. The causeway to Sanibel and roads on the island are a nightmare in winter. Get there early. (Check the woods around the lighthouse for passerines before you leave Sanibel.)
St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
30.08 N 84.12 W
Red-cockaded Woodpecker country. Lots of waterfowl in the winter. Look for Wood Stork, Least Tern, Piping Plover and Budgerigar, too.
GEORGIA
Jekyll Island
31.11 N 81.46 W
This resort destination has done a wonderful job of preserving natural areas. The south end of the island is probably the "birdiest". The island has 20 miles of jogging trails that take you through good birding habitat.
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
33.91 N 84.61 W
The mile-long road to the top of the "mountain" should yield about 20 warbler species in late April. On weekends, you can ride a shuttle bus to the top. Good trails cover most of this park located about 20 miles northwest of Atlanta.
Okefenokee Swamp
30.79 N 82.00 W
This huge wetlands area is on the Georgia/Florida border. Look for specialties like Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Brown-headed Nuthatch and Bachman's Sparrow.
HAWAII
Alakai Swamp / Waimea Canyon
22.18 N 159.61 W
The largest canyon in the Pacific and the wettest spot on earth are here on the island of Kauai. Honeycreepers abound.
Haleakala National Park
20.73 N 156.25 W
Rare Hawaiian forest birds can be seen at this park on the island of Maui. There are two distinct habitats here: cloud forests/cinder-desert and coastal rainforest. The Nene or Hawaiian Goose can occasionally be spotted near park headquarters.
IDAHO
American Falls Reservoir
42.75 N 112.75 W
The reservoir attracts Bald Eagles as well as shorebirds and ducks. There are good viewing areas near the town of American Falls. Things may slow down in the summer, but can be quite exciting during the winter.
Camas National Wildlife Refuge
43.84 N 112.18 W
Look for waterbirds during the summer and search riparian areas for spring and fall migrants. This is a good spot to look for Peregrine Falcons.
Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge
43.50 N 116.80 W
Waterfowl are very abundant in winter. During migration they are joined by shorebirds. Late summer is a good time to see Ibis, Herons and Egrets.
Snake River
43.01 N 115.59 W
The Snake River Birds of Prey Natural Area near Boise has about 700 pair of nesting raptors! Visit from mid-March to early June. Watch out for falling Evil Knievils.
ILLINOIS
Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge
40.45 N 89.93 W
Waterfowl congregate here during the winter, with counts exceeding 400,000. Bald Eagles and Swans are usually present as well. Fall shorebird migration can be productive if you find the right spot.
Horseshoe Lake Conservation Area
37.13 N 89.28 W
A horseshoe bend in the Mississippi River and regular flooding produced this pristine woodland/wetland area. Cerulean Warblers and Summer Tanagers can be found here. Waterfowl are abundant in winter.
Illinois Beach State Park
42.41 N 87.81 W
This varied habitat, just south of the Wisconsin border, has beaches, grasslands, wetlands and woods. Raptors funnel overhead during September and October. Migration is the best time for songbirds.
Lincoln Park Bird Sanctuary / Montrose Point
41.88 N 87.62 W
Birding in downtown Chicago during migration can be extremely productive! Search the small shrubs and hedges near Lakeshore Drive and almost anything can turn up! Turn around and check the Lake Michigan shoreline and the lake for loons and grebes. Visit the bird gallery in the Field Museum when you are done.
Shawnee National Forest
37.39 N 88.26 W
The southern tip of Illinois is the home of the Shawnee National Forest. This wilderness is a great spot to find woodpeckers, warblers, vireos and owls. This is the way America looked 300 years ago.
INDIANA
Falls of the Ohio
38.28 N 85.76 W
Across the river from Louisville, Kentucky, this can be a great birding spot when the Ohio River is low in late summer and early fall. Rarities like Baird's Sandpiper and Buff-breasted Sandpipers have been seen here. In winter, interesting gull species may appear at any time.
Indiana Dunes State Park
41.66 N 87.06 W
The shoreline of southern Lake Michigan is a great spot for loons, grebes, gulls and shorebirds. In between the dunes are forested or swampy areas where migrants like to hide. Spring migration is good for hawk watchers.
Jasper-Pulaski Fish & Wildlife Area
41.18 N 86.90 W
Sandhill Cranes are the main attraction in the spring and fall with late October the best time to visit. This is one of Indiana's largest wetland areas.
Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge
38.96 N 85.82 W
Waterfowl love this place. During the migration season over 15,000 birds may be present at one time. Marshy habitat, open fields and woodlands result in a wide variety of passerines as well. This Refuge is located between Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Louisville.
IOWA
Cone Marsh Wildlife Area
41.38 N 91.39 W
This marshland area is southeast of Iowa City. Look for King and Virginia rails, Sedge Wrens and Yellow-headed Blackbirds. The water levels vary, so you may see lots of waterfowl and shorebirds.
Lake Red Rock
41.39 N 93.00 W
This is where many rare gulls have been seen. In migration you will see loons, grebes and waterfowl. Bald Eagles are easy to see in the winter -- check the river below the dam.
KANSAS
Cheyenne Bottoms / Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
38.25 N 98.37 W
These two areas, east of Great Bend, are among the most important inland staging sites for migrating shorebirds in the western hemisphere. About 45% of all shorebirds stop here on their way north including White-rumped, Baird's and Stilt Sandpipers.
Cimarron National Grassland
37.25 N 101.82 W
Prairie, sagebrush and riparian habitat make for great birding in this grassy sea. Lesser Prairie-Chicken perform at their leks during courtship season. Look for Burrowing Owls at the Prairie Dog towns.
Flint Hills National Wildlife Refuge
38.40 N 95.84 W
This refuge is located along both sides of the Neosho river. Come to see the migrating waterfowl in March and November. Bird along the gravel roads and Burgess Marsh Trail. In spring look for Upland Sandpiper and Wilson's Phalarope.
Weston Bend Bottoms
39.61 N 95.04 W
The Missouri River lowlands is a bird magnet during migration. Nesting birds include Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Scarlet Tanager and Northern Parula.
KENTUCKY
John James Audubon State Park
37.89 N 87.55 W
John James Audubon spent his early years here. The park has an Audubon museum and seven miles of birding trails through woodlands and around two manmade lakes. Visit during spring or fall migration.
Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
36.78 N 88.04 W
Nesting warblers, vireos and Wild Turkeys are found throughout the area. Spring and fall songbird migration here is excellent. This is also one of the nicest places in the state to take your family for an outdoor vacation.
Mammoth Cave National Park
37.14 N 86.05 W
Visit the cave first, then explore the hardwood forest and sandstone bluffs. Spring through mid-August is the best time to see the birds.
LOUISIANA
Cameron Parish / Sabine National Wildlife Refuge
29.52 N 93.29 W
Southwestern Louisiana can be very rewarding, especially in the winter months and during spring migration. Look for Snow Geese, Peregrine Falcon, Wood Storks and Least Terns.
Grand Isle
29.15 N 90.21 W
This barrier island at the mouth of Barataria Bay may have more birds per capita than anywhere else in the US during a spring migration fallout. You should be able to find shorebirds, ducks, gulls, terns, wading birds and many songbirds in the spring and fall.
Peveto Woods Sanctuaries
29.77 N 93.51 W
This area is famous for spring "fallouts". The Gulf Coast can become littered with birds when a north wind or heavy rains force songbirds to drop into the first bush they see after crossing the Gulf of Mexico.
MAINE
Acadia National Park
44.15 N 68.20 W
Spruce forests and rugged rocky coastline combine to make Acadia a top 100 Spot for birders. Seabirds are plentiful. You may even see a Purple Sandpiper or an Atlantic Puffin.
Baxter State Park
44.06 N 67.13 W
Bicknell's Thrush can be found at Mount Katahdin. Look in burned out areas for Three-toed and Black-backed Woodpeckers. This is 204,000 acres of remote birding in a land of BIG mosquitoes.
Bluenose Ferry
44.06 N 67.13 W
This ferry used to take 7 hours to travel from Bar Harbor, Maine to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. Now a newer ferry called The Cat makes the crossing in 2.5 hours. In September you might see Manx, Greater and Sooty Shearwater; Wilson's and Leach's Storm-Petrel; Northern Gannet as well as Red and Red-necked Phalarope.
Machias Seal Island
44.59N 67.05W
This is a great place to see nesting Atlantic Puffins in the summer. You must book ahead -- small boats leave from Jonesport and Cutler. Arctic Terns will dive-bomb your head, so wear a hat!
Monhegan Island
43.47 N 69.22 W
Small, isolated, and far offshore, Monhegan Island is famous for its picturesque beauty -- and birds! Its size and location concentrate land bird migrants and attract off-course vagrants. Late September can produce over 100 species during a long weekend.
MANITOBA
Churchill
58.48 N 94.12 W
Go in mid to late June to see Ross's Gull, Hudsonian Godwit, Arctic Tern, Smith's Longspur and lots of other sought-after birds. Take the train up and fly back.
Riding Mountain National Park
50.54 N 100.06 W
In southwest Manitoba, this park has many excellent, easy to reach birding sites. Watch for Northern Hawk-Owl. At dusk, watch beavers as they build yet another dam.
MARYLAND
Assateague Island National Seashore
38.34 N 75.08 W
This barrier island has waterfowl, waders, peeps and songbirds. Habitats include dunes, marshes and forests. Mid-April to Mid-May is best and you avoid the summer crowds.
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park
39.04 N 77.25 W
The 185 mile long canal stretches from Washington, D.C to Cumberland, Maryland. The bottomlands woods are filled with warblers during migration -- but get there early!
Conowingo Dam
39.66 N 76.18 W
Come in the winter to see the Bald Eagles. Thousands of gulls may be found just below the dam.
Ocean City
38.38 N 75.06 W
Stay away in summer -- too crowded. But the rest of the year you will find seabirds and shorebirds along the jetty and in the surrounding areas.
MASSACHUSETTS
Mount Auburn Cemetery
42.40 N 71.11 W
Visit in early May. This migrant trap is a great spot for warblers and other spring migrants. Located just west of Fresh Pond Parkway in Cambridge.
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge / Plum Island
42.48 N 70.49 W
North of Boston, this can be a great birding spot in winter! Snowy Owl and Northern Shrike may appear. Spring migration brings in the warblers and there are always plenty of waterfowl at any time of year.
Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
42.39 N 73.29 W
This hardwood forest in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts is home to 80 nesting species, including 15 warblers. There are seven miles of birding trails, including one to the top of Lenox Mountain. Visit May through July.
MICHIGAN
Lake Erie Metropark
42.07 N 83.19 W
This is a wonderful spot for raptors in the fall. They come around the western end of Lake Erie and fly right over your head! The Point Mouillee State Game Area is just south of here. The wetlands and marshes are good for rails, gulls, wading birds and shorebirds, especially during migration.
Mio / Grayling
44.40 N 84.08 W
This is where you must go if you want to see the Kirtland's Warbler. Visit from mid-May to late June. This rare warbler nests only in young Jack Pines.
Sault St. Marie
46.48 N 84.30 W
A winter visit should add some new birds to your life list! Great Gray Owls, Snowy Owls, Sharp-tailed Grouse and Snow Buntings can be found by driving through the open country south of town. A Gyrfalcon is regularly seen on the electric power plant roof near the canal locks. Watch for Bohemian Waxwings in residential areas.
Whitefish Point
46.46 N 84.58 W
April is the time to look for winter specialties and early spring migrants. Loons, Winter Wrens, Evening Grosbeaks, Gray Jays and much more. Stay in Paradise -- with 30 foot snow piles along main street.
MINNESOTA
Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge
48.35 N 95.97 W
Come between late April and the end of October. These wetlands and tamarack bogs have recorded 280 species. The American Bittern is here. Warbler migration peaks around May 20th.
Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve
46.50 N 92.00 W
Great Gray Owls in the dead of winter! Check your antifreeze. Buy A Birder's Guide to Minnesota by Kim Eckert. Also look for Hawks in the fall and Connecticut and Mourning Warblers in the summer.
Gunflint Trail
47.82 N 90.30 W
Start at Grand Marais and follow Cook County Road 12 north. This 63 mile drive passes through boreal forests. Look for Spruce Grouse, Black-backed Woodpeckers, Ruffed Grouse, Crossbills and Great Gray Owls. Good any time of year, but June and July are best.
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
45.03 N 92.78 W
If the rest of the family want to visit the Mall of America, you can head over here. Lots of variety here -- bottomlands, lakes, marshes and oak savanna. There are miles of hiking trails.
Sax-Zim Bog map
47.17 N 92.62 W
Drive the back roads in this area to see Sharp-tailed Grouse, Upland Sandpiper, Great Gray Owl and Connecticut Warblers. In winter this is a good spot for raptors.
MISSISSIPPI
Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge
33.29 N 88.81 W
Lakes, bottomlands and pine woods make this one of Mississippi's finest birding spots. You should have no trouble finding a Red-cockaded Woodpecker along Woodpecker Trail. Visit the boardwalk at Bluff Lake too.
Gulf Islands National Seashore
31.00 N 87.00 W
The woods near Ocean Springs may be full of spring migrants and the marshes and shore nearby are great for wading birds. Least Terns and Black Skimmers nest here.
St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge
31.88 N 91.44 W
The Mississippi River forms the western boundary of the refuge. Four lakes, bottomlands and upland forests plus open fields offer a variety of habitat. The waterfowl are best seen from October to February and shorebirds are here except in the dead of winter.
MISSOURI
Prairie State Park
37.49 N 94.34 W
Grassland birds of the prairie are the specialty here. Look for Upland Sandpipers, Henslow's Sparrows and Dickcissel. With luck you may even spot a Greater Prairie-Chicken. In winter watch for Short-eared Owls.
St. Louis
38.42 N 90.20 W
Eurasian Tree Sparrows are established breeders here and across the Mississippi River in parks and farmland of western Illinois. Otherwise, go to Europe to see them. Check the Riverlands Environmental Demonstration Area north of town for wintering gulls.
Squaw Creek National Wildlife Refuge
40.06 N 95.24 W
The 10 mile drive lets you view ponds and fields from the comfort of your car. Spring and fall migration are busy times with more Snow Geese here than you knew existed!
Taberville Prairie Conservation Area
38.10 N 94.00 W
This tallgrass prairie was never plowed for crops so over 400 plant species can be found. Greater Prairie-Chickens perform on their lek in March and April. Watch for the courtship display of Scissor-tailed Flycatchers.
MONTANA
Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge
48.45 N 107.82 W
This is prairie country. Look here for Baird's Sparrow, Sprague's Pipit and McCown's Longspur. Lake Bowdoin can be productive for Grebes and Pelicans.
Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area
47.62 N 112.02 W
Spring and fall migrations can be spectacular. Shorebirds are abundant in April and May. Check the grasslands for Short-eared Owls and Clay-colored Sparrows.
Glacier National Park
48.75 N 113.72 W
As you travel over Logan Pass, stop at picnic areas to find higher-elevation species. American Dippers live under the bridge just north of Lake McDonald. The cliffs near Avalanche Creek may turn up a Black Swift.
Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge
48.30 N 104.18 W
Site of one of the largest American White Pelican rookeries. 250,000 waterfowl may stop over during migration. The prairie grasslands are a good spot to find McCown's and Chestnut-collared Longspurs.
NEBRASKA
Fontenelle Forest Nature Center
41.16 N 96.19 W
The deciduous forest along the Missouri river make this a great spot to look for warblers, vireos and even raptors. Sharp-tailed grouse perform courtship displays in the spring. The wetlands area is a good spot to look for Virginia Rails.
Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge
42.91 N 100.48 W
A deep wooded canyon runs through the sandhill prairie. Watch for Sharp-tailed Grouse and Greater Prairie-Chicken. Sparrows are plentiful in the grasslands while songbirds are easier to see in the wooded areas along the Niobrara River.
Oliver Reservoir
41.09 N 103.96 W
Near Kimball, this is a migrant trap that has produced more than one state record. Fall is the best season to look for western birds in the riparian habitat.
Platte River / Crane Meadows Nature Center I-80 Exit 305
40.39 N 99.04 W
Half a million Sandhill Cranes jam into a 150 mile stretch of the shallow Platte River in Mid-March. They fatten up in local fields in preparation for the continuation of their migration north.
NEVADA
Corn Creek Field Station
36.47 N 115.32 W
This oasis in the Desert National Wildlife range is about an hour north of Las Vegas. Check the desert scrub for LeConte's Thrasher. Spring and fall migration are good for passerines. Follow your early morning trip here with a drive up Mount Charleston.
Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway / Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge
40.75 N 115.46 W
The Ruby Mountains are home to the introduced Himalayan Snowcock. Hike up to Island Lake to find their habitat. The best time to visit is mid-July through August.
Mount Charleston / Humbolt-Toiyabe National Forest
36.28 N 115.68 W
This area is northwest of Las Vegas. You will discover a variety of pine forests on the road to the summit. Stop at picnic areas and
Red Rock Canyon
36.18 N 115.42 W
Look here for Mojave Desert species before you try your luck in nearby Las Vegas. Continue south to Spring Mountain Ranch State Park for Summer Tanager and Crissal Thrasher.
NEWFOUNDLANDGros Morne National Park49.55 N 57.77 W
A rugged park along the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, it has both coastal lowlands and alpine plateau in the Long Range Mountains. Visit St. Paul's Inlet at low tide from late July through September. Three-toed Woodpeckers may be seen during the six hour hike up Gros Morne Mountain.
Witless Bay Islands
47.25 N 52.78 W
35 KM south of St. Johns, the Witless Bay Islands support a globally significant colony of breeding seabirds. Great Island, in particular supports the largest colony of Atlantic Puffins in eastern North America.
NEW BRUNSWICK
Grand Manan Archipelago
44.43 N 66.47 W
A beautiful spot for fall migration on the northeast coast. Watch shorebirds and Atlantic Puffins in the Bay of Fundy. Look for Crossbills and warblers in the nearby spruce-fir forests.
Kouchibouguac National Park
46.81 N 64.95 W
Estuaries (fresh water meets salt water), bogs, forests and salt marshes provide a variety of habitat for over 230 species of birds -- and a few moose. Visit between May and September.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Mount Washington
44.40 N 71.21 W
Take the toll road during the spring and summer and listen for Bicknell's Thrush. Check out Jefferson Notch as well. You may see a Ruffed Grouse.
Odiorne Point State Park
43.04 N 70.72 W
Along the coast of New Hampshire this park has tidal pools, marshes, forests and overgrown military bunkers. August shorebird migration is very good. Raptors migrate over in the fall and Purple Sandpipers and Grebes winter here.
Seabrook Harbor/Great Bay NWR
42.92 N 70.84 W
The 18 mile seacoast is a great spot to bird. Start at Seabrook and work your way up to Odiorne Point State Park and Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Check the mudflats for migrating shorebirds.
NEW JERSEY
Brigantine Division - Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
39.27 N 74.27 W
If the slot machines in Atlantic City took all your quarters, you can always walk the boardwalk at Brigantine to look for Saltmarsh's Sharp-tailed Sparrow. Drive the dikes to see Waterfowl and Shorebirds. Best in May and August.
Cape May38.56 N 74.57 W
Hawks "funnel" into Cape May each fall, making this the best spot on the East Coast for raptors. Fantastic for warblers and other migrating birds in spring and fall. One of the top 10 spots in North America.
NEW MEXICO
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge
33.59 N 106.50 W
Wintertime is when you will find thousands of Snow Geese, Sandhill Cranes and maybe even a Ross' Goose. The riparian habitat along the Rio Grande River holds many Curve-billed and Crissal Thrashers.
Gila National Forest
32.92 N 108.68 W
This forest is home to Flammulated and Spotted Owls, Painted Redstarts and Hepatic Tanagers. Check riparian habitat along the Gila River for Common Black-Hawk.
Sandia Crest / Cibola National Forest
35.18 N 106.49 W
Watch for Rosy-Finches, Black-headed Grosbeak, Hermit Thrush and Red-naped Sapsuckers. Nearer Albuquerque, the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park is a great spot for Say's Phoebe, Blue Grosbeak and Black-chinned Hummingbird.
NEW YORK
Braddock Bay
43.30 N 77.70 W
Just northwest of Rochester on the Lake Ontario shore, this hot spot has waterfowl, wading birds and raptors. The hawk watch platform is often crowded in the spring during migration.
Central Park, New York City
40.47 N 73.58 W
Birds? In New York City? During spring migration, Central Park is a welcomed island of green trees in the middle of a concrete desert. Warblers, Tanagers, Grosbeaks (and maybe a Rock Dove).
Derby Hill Bird Observatory
43.52 N 76.26 W
This lookout spot on Lake Ontario is a Mecca for hawkwatchers in the springtime. Broad-winged Hawks number in the thousands on many days.
Jamaica Bay National Wildlife Refuge
40.37 N 73.52 W
Nestled between Brooklyn and the JFK Airport , in the shadow of the Statue of Liberty, is a wonderful wetland area officially called Gateway National Recreation Center. Great for migrants. Something rare is always turning up here. You can even bird by subway!
Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
42.98 N 76.74 W
This small refuge is in the Finger Lakes region of Central New York. Eagles and waterbirds congregate here, especially in the fall. The 3.5 mile Wildlife Drive is a good place to start your visit.
Niagara Falls
43.08 N 79.07 W
Winter gulls are the attraction here. Rarities are always showing up each winter. Between the falls and Fort Niagara State Park on Lake Ontario you will see thousands of gulls! When finished, cross the river and start building up your Canada list!
NORTH CAROLINA
Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge
35.45 N 76.20 W
Tundra Swan show up each winter by the thousands. Over twenty species of ducks can be found in the winter as well. This is a very good spot in spring and fall migration for shorebirds.
Outer Banks
35.31 N 75.29 W
This is one of the best spots on the East coast for pelagic (open ocean) trips, especially in May. Go out 20-40 miles to see Cory's and Greater Shearwater; Black-capped Petrel; and Wilson's, Leach's and Band-rumped Storm-Petrel. Back on land visit the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge
35.73 N 75.51 W
The "dune peas" attract birds of all types. Shorebirds nest in summer and waterfowl are here as well. Search the estuary and tidal creeks. Piping Plovers nest here. You may even spot a Parasitic Jaeger offshore.
NORTH DAKOTA
J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife Refuge
48.49 N 100.72 W
This refuge, in "pothole" country, has grassland sparrows as well as waterbirds in the marshes and along the Souris River.
Lostwood National Wildlife Refuge
48.47N 102.51 W
Sparrows can be fun! Le Conte's, Baird's, Grasshopper and Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow are here. Sharp-tailed Grouse is the area specialty.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
46.97 N 103.45 W
This badlands area is good for western species. Riparian areas along the river are often productive. Watch for Spotted Towhee, Lazuli Bunting and Bullock's Oriole.
NORTHWEST TERRITORIES
Nahanni National Park Reserve
61.00 N 126.00 W
You must fly into the park in a hired plane or helicopter. It is a true wilderness with rugged mountains and spruce forests. Look for Blue Grouse, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Bohemian Waxwing and Trumpeter Swan. Visit in June through August.
Wood Buffalo National Park
60.20 N 113.20 W
The northeast corner of this park is in the Northwest territories (most of the park is in Alberta). This area supports the entire breeding population of migratory Whooping Cranes during the late spring and summer months.
NOVA SCOTIA
Cape Breton
46.70 N 60.37 W
French Mountain, Bird Island and Ingonish are three of the best birding spots on the cape. Spring through early winter can be a good time to visit. Watch for Bicknell's Thrush and Atlantic Puffin.
OHIO
Adams Lake State Park
38.81 N 83.53 W
Adams County is at the edge of the Appalachian mountain range. Chuck-will's-widow, Wild Turkey, Blue Grosbeak and other species are often easier to find here than anywhere else in Ohio.
Crane Creek / Magee Marsh / Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge
41.37 N 83.09 W
Spring migration here may be even better than Point Pelee -- and two hours closer if you live in Ohio! Go visit the Oak Openings and Irwin Prairie on the west side of Toledo as well.
Green Lawn Cemetery and Arboretum
39.94 N 83.04 W
This is a great spot during spring migration. Birder's are always welcome. You should see almost 50 species of warblers, thrushes and vireos in early May.
Headlands Beach State Park
41.73 N 81.33 N
There are a whole series of birding spots along Lake Erie, just east of Cleveland. Spring migration is very good here, as is the hawkwatching. Continue over to Mentor Marsh State Nature Preserve and finally, the power plant in Eastlake.
Killdeer Plains
40.65 N 83.31 N
In winter, look for hawks and owls. Check the tall evergreens very carefully for Long-eared Owls. At dusk you should see Short-eared Owls skimming over the fields. Depending on water levels, shorebirds and waterfowl can be abundant, especially in migration.
Pete Thayer's Former Back Yard
39.09 N 84.22 W
You don't have to be Dorothy from the Wizard of OZ to realize that there is no place like home. Birders are always happy discovering and exploring the birding spots close to home. Thanks to the foresight and conservation efforts of others, I was able to visit great birding locations close to my home like the Cincinnati Nature Center and the Oxbow. What have you done lately for the next generation of birders in your home town?
OKLAHOMA
Black Mesa
36.61 N 102.98 W
This birding spot is at the very western tip of Oklahoma. Many western birds are found nowhere else in the state. Watch for Chihuahuan Raven. Hike up the Black Mesa Preserve to the highest spot in Oklahoma.
Little River National Wildlife Refuge
33.94 N 94.75 W
Undeveloped wilderness along the Little River is home to many woodland birds. Swainson's Warblers can be found here but try April and May when they are singing to improve your chances.
Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge
36.81 N 98.20 W
The salt flats are home to Snowy Plover, American Avocet and Least Tern. Sand Creek Bay is very good during shorebird migration.
Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge
34.10 N 98.46 W
Southwest Oklahoma in winter may yield some hard-to-find Longspurs, Sparrows and Lesser Prairie-Chicken. Try the loop from Norman to Altus to Washita National Wildlife Refuge. Eastern and western birds come together here. Watch for bison and elk as well.
ONTARIO
Amherst Island
44.18 N 76.75 W
Come in December to see Owls. You can find them during daylight hours. The woodlot near the eastern end of the island is a good spot. Also scan the ice floes just offshore.
Long Point
42.58 N 80.25 W
This point thrusts 19 miles into the northern edge of Lake Erie. Visit in the spring for spectacular warbler migrations and great hawk flights. The Long Point Bird Observatory is a good place to start -- pick up an annotated checklist.
Niagara Falls
43.06 N 79.04 W
Come in December to see Gulls. In general, birds are easier to see from the Ontario side of the river. Specialties include Iceland, Lesser Black-backed, Black-headed and Little Gull. Look for Ducks on the river.
Point Pelee
41.56 N 82.31 W
This tip of Ontario extends into Lake Erie, forming a welcome site for migrating birds in May and a natural "funnel" in the fall. Warblers in the spring are everywhere. Watch the flight of Monarch butterflies and huge flocks of Blue Jays in the fall. Considered by most as one of the Top 10 birding spots in North America.
OREGON
Crater Lake National Park
42.96 N 122.06 W
Alpine forests and beautiful scenery attract birders in search of Stellar's Jay, Townsend's Solitaire, Three-toed Woodpecker and Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch.
Malheur National Wildlife Refuge
43.16 N 118.49 W
Watch for American White Pelican, Trumpeter Swan, Sage Thrasher, MacGillivray's Warbler and other western specialties. Visit in September or October and you may find a rarity or two.
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
45.86 N 123.22 W
Visit during the fall and winter to see raptors, gulls, sparrows and waterfowl. Thayer's Gull can be found at the south end of the island. In late summer, mudflats hold thousands of shorebirds.
Tillamook Bay / Cape Meares
45.50 N 123.91 W
The entire coast along Highway 101 is a wonderful place to view seabirds. Watch for Tufted Puffin, Black Oystercatcher, Common Murre, and sea lions on the rocks. In August, scan offshore for migrating Sooty Shearwater.
Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge
42.48 N 122.06 W
15,000 acres of mostly freshwater marsh and open water. These habitats serve as excellent nesting and brood rearing areas for waterfowl and colonial nesting birds including American White Pelican and several heron species. Hundreds of thousands of waterfowl stop here during migration.
PENNSYLVANIA
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
40.40 N 75.58 W
October = raptors. West of Allentown, this is one of the best hawk and falcon watching sites in North America. It consists of 2,200 acres straddling the Kittatinny Ridge of the Appalachian Mountains.
Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area
40.28 N 76.23 W
This may be the top spot in the state to see waterfowl. Fall migration and late winter are good times to visit. Migrating Snow Geese and Tundra Swans are present in large numbers.
Presque Isle State Park
42.09 N 80.07 W
This hook of land juts into Lake Erie, creating a wonderful migratory gathering point. Spring migration is best. You are likely to see 20 or more warbler species in a day or two.
Tinicum (John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge)
39.90 N 75.41 W
Located just a mile north of the Philadelphia airport, Tinicum has wetlands and fields that attract a wide variety of species. Birding can be good at any time of the year. Check the marshes and impoundments for migrating shorebirds.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLANDPrince Edward Island National Park
46.41 N 63.15 W
Shorebirds and waterfowl can be found at Rustico Bay. Check Long Pond for Greater Scaup.
QUEBECBonaventure Island / Forillon Nat'l Park
48.31 N 64.11 W
Go in summertime to see breeding seabirds on the steep rocky cliffs. Watch for Northern Gannets, Common Murres, Black-legged Kittiwakes, Razorbills and even Atlantic Puffins.
RHODE ISLAND
Block Island National Wildlife Refuge
41.10 N 71.34 W
Visit during the first week in October and you may see almost 150 species. Hawks and Falcons overhead may occasionally spook the other birds.
Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
41.45 N 71.46 W
Visit during the fall and winter for seabirds. You may see Purple Sandpipers and rafts of Eiders.
SASKATCHEWANPelican Lake50.52 N 106.03 WLarge numbers of shorebirds and waterfowl utilize Pelican Lake during both the spring and fall migration. Marbled Godwits, Wilson's Phalaropes and American Avocets are often present during the spring and fall migration.
Prince Albert National Park
54.00 N 106.50 W
The park is in a transitional zone where aspens and grasslands become boreal forest farther north. This is a great place to look for the northern forest specialties like Great Gray Owl, Boreal Chickadees and Black-backed Woodpeckers.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge
33.00 N 79.28 W
In between Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach. This refuge on South Carolina's Grand Strand is one of the favorite birding spots of the "locals". Be sure to visit the Francis Marion National Forest nearby for pinewoods birds.
Huntington Beach State Park
33.45 N 79.28 W
Even closer to Myrtle Beach is this top birding spot. Marsh birds and shore birds are abundant. Drop off your spouse to play golf while you go birding!
SOUTH DAKOTA
Badlands National Park
43.81 N 102.15 W
These rugged cliffs and gullies are home to raptors as well as grassland sparrows. Drive along the scenic 27 mile Badlands Loop Road and stop at the scenic overlooks for Golden Eagles and Ferruginous Hawks.
Black Hills
43.93 N 103.47 W
While visiting Mount Rushmore, enjoy the forest birds in aspen and ponderosa pine groves. Try stopping at various spots along the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. Hanna campground is a good spot for the high-elevation species.
Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge
43.17 N 101.54 W
Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge is a unique area featuring native sandhills, marshes, meadows, open water, and prairie upland habitats and is home to an equally diverse set of bird species. The best areas to bird at Lacreek are along the dike roads.
Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge
45.66 N 98.31 W
The world's largest colony of Franklin's Gulls nest here (200,000 ). Follow the 15 mile driving trail around the lake. Visit from March to May and September to November to catch the waterfowl migration along the Central flyway.
Union County State Park
42.82 N 96.78 W
One of the best places in the state to observe neotropical migrants during spring and fall migrations. At the peak of spring migration in mid-May, 20 species of warblers are possible.
TENNESSEE
Great Smoky Mountains
35.41 N 83.32 W
The ancient Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina contain some wonderful surprises. Warblers nest here that might otherwise have continued on to Canada. The scenery is beautiful and serene. Plus, you can always drop off the non-birders at Dollywood!
Reelfoot Lake
36.38 N 89.37 N
Bald Eagles are a highlight of this area in winter. Formed by a huge earthquake (the same one that made the Mississippi River flow backwards!), the lake and surrounding areas offer dozens of birding spots throughout the year. Wood Ducks and Wild Turkeys are everywhere.
Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge
36.26 N 88.11 N
This is actually two refuges 40 miles apart located along the Mississippi Flyway. Migration is the best time to visit. Waterfowl spend the winter here as do Bald Eagles.
TEXAS
Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge
29.35 N 94.30 W
Listen for Yellow and Black Rails during the evening. Painted Buntings and Dickcissel are common. Drive the 12 miles of gravel roads with windows down and insect repellent on.
Aransas National Wildlife Reserve
28.14 N 96.49 W
Herons, Ducks, Sandpipers and maybe a Whooping Crane. Paved tour road is 16 miles long. Try the observation tower and choose from six walking trails.
Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park
26.09 N 98.22 W
The lucky see a Blue Bunting, Clay-colored Robin or Hook-billed Kite. Watch for Pauraque sitting on the picnic tables at dusk. One of the top 10 sites in North America.
Big Bend National Park
29.07 N 103.19 W
Hike 11 miles to see the Colima Warbler. Lucifer Hummingbird and Gray Vireo are here, too. A beautiful, rugged area. Birding Rio Grande Village in the morning is wonderful. Visit in June, July or August.
Bolivar Flats
29.24 N 94.44 W
One of the premier birding spots on the Texas coast for shorebirds and waders. Look for Red Knots, White-rumped Sandpipers, Stilt Sandpipers, Sandwich Terns and Least Terns, among others.
Brazos Bend State Park
29.23 N 95.37 W
Southwest of Houston, this is a great place to look for Masked Duck and both Whistling-Ducks. Nice observation tower for scanning the marshy areas.
Brownsville
25.54 N 97.31 W
To the dump, to the dump, to the dump, dump, dump = Tamaulipas Crows (formerly called Mexican Crow)! During the 1980s this species was found in the US only at the Brownsville, Texas dump. Now it is very rare.
Davis Mountains
30.35 N 103.57 W
Look for area specialties like Common Black-Hawk and Montezuma Quail. A 75 mile scenic loop around the Davis Mountains covers many productive habitats.
Falcon Dam / San Ygnacio
26.35 N 99.08 W
The northern end of your Rio Grande Valley trip could add Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl, Muscovy Duck or White-collared Seedeater to your life list. San Ygnacio is about 44 miles upstream from Falcon Dam.
High Island
29.33 N 94.24 W
Spring warbler fallouts can be spectacular. If you just flew all the way across the Gulf of Mexico, you would plop down here to rest, too! Visit in April and early May.
Hill Country (Edwards Plateau)
29.37 N 98.35 W
Golden-cheeked Warbler and Black-capped Vireo are the regional specialties. Hurry before the habitat disappears. Also stop to see millions of Mexican Free-tailed Bats leave their limestone caves at dusk.
King Ranch
27.33 N 97.54 W
The largest ranch in Texas has been a haven for birds for over a century. Small groups are permitted to visit here and discover birds like Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl, Tropical Parula, Audubon's Oriole and White-tailed Hawk.
Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge
26.11 N 97.20 W
Mottled Duck, Olive Sparrow and lots of waterbirds and shorebirds. Aplomado Falcons are being reintroduced here -- don't count them yet.
Padre Island National Seashore
27.31 N 97.35 W
70 miles of unspoiled beach is home to gulls, terns, shorebirds and a few Peregrine Falcons.
Rockport/Fulton
28.01 N 97.03 W
A perennial top 3 ranking in the Christmas Bird Count. Over 200 species in one day! Fantastic in the spring, too. A boat tour out of Rockport is the best way to see a Whooping Crane during the winter.
Sabal Palm Grove Sanctuary
25.51 N 97.29 W
Look for Buff-bellied Hummingbirds, Least Grebe and Green Jays at Sabal Palm.
Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge
26.04 N 98.05 W
One of the VERY BEST spots in the US. Green Kingfisher, Green Jay, Red-billed Pigeon plus lots of other colors, too! Visit in late January or early February.
UTAH
Antelope Island State Park
40.98 N 112.18 W
This is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake. Get your "lifer" Chukar here (I did!). The causeway over to the island has shorebirds along the side of the road. The park itself has grassland birds like Sage Sparrow and Sage Thrasher.
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
41.45 N 112.45 W
August sees spectacular numbers of waterfowl and shorebirds at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge at the north end of the Great Salt Lake. Birding has recovered nicely since the floods of the mid-1980s.
Dinosaur National Monument
40.54 N 109.11 W
Discover prehistoric "birds" as well as modern birds. This arid, rocky area is home to Black-chinned and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds. Riparian areas along the Green River are productive as well.
Ouray National Wildlife Refuge
39.96 N 109.93 W
This wetlands is smack in the middle of the desert. Waterbirds are the specialty here. Be sure to scan the water's edge around Pelican Lake.
Wasatch-Cache National Forest
41.87 N 111.51 W
The Cache Valley near Logan and nearby forest are amazing. You may find Williamson's Sapsucker, Three-toed Woodpecker Pine Grosbeak and Red Crossbill, Virginia's Warbler and Calliope Hummingbirds. Drive up the Mill Creek Canyon.
VERMONT
Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area
44.19 N 73.23 W
Migrating waterfowl as well as nesting species make this Vermont's most popular birding spot. In winter watch for Snow Buntings and Lapland Longspurs.
VIRGINIA
Chincoteague National Wildlife Reserve
37.59 N 75.17 W
More famous for its ponies than its birds -- but that may soon change! This barrier island is a last staging area each fall for Shorebirds on their way to South America. Thousands of waterfowl spend the winter here.
Chesapeake Bay Bridge & Tunnel
37.00 N 76.02 W
Write or call for a letter that will permit you to stop on island 2,3 and 4 as you cross the bridge/tunnel. Purple Sandpiper, Great Cormorant, Long-tailed Duck and all three Scoters may fly by.
Great Falls Park
39.00 N 77.26 W
Just north of Washington, D.C., this park is in the Potomac River floodplain. Swamps and deciduous forests are the primary habitat. Lots of warblers are the main attraction for birders. Non-birders come to see the rocks and waterfalls.
Kiptopeke State Park
37.15 N 75.98 W
Located at the tip of Cape Charles, this is the place to be in the fall. About 70,000 raptors fly overhead between September and November. The park is also great for fall songbirds.
Shenandoah National Park
38.25 N 78.70 W
Skyline Drive is a beautiful experience. Birders like to explore the South River Falls Trail around mile 63. Spring and summer are the best times to visit.
WASHINGTON
Ocean Shores / Gray's Harbor / Westport
46.55 N 124.08 W
This is probably the best spot in the state for shorebirds. You will also find pelagic birding at its best! On the boat, look for Black-footed Albatross; all three Jaegers; Pink-footed and Flesh-footed Shearwaters; and Sabine's Gull in late July or early August.
Olympic National Park / Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge
48.03 N 123.42 W
Lush and majestic scenery. Drive up Hurricane Ridge Road to try for Vaux's Swift and Red Crossbills. At Dungeness, watch for Marbled Murrelet and Brandt's Cormorant.
Skagit Flats/Samish Flats
46.48 N 122.17 W
Winter is the time when swans and geese gather here in the agricultural fields, wetlands and bay. Watch for raptors -- maybe even a Gyrfalcon.
Wenas Valley
46.62 N 120.63 W
Pine forests, aspen groves and sagebrush flats provide an incredibly diverse habitat for Western Tanagers, Calliope Hummingbirds, Blue Grouse and much more.
WEST VIRGINIA
Cranesville Swamp Preserve
39.54 N 79.49 W
This unusual boreal bog is home to birds and plants that normally are found much farther north. Stay on the boardwalk to protect the plants. Visit in spring and summer.
Green Bottom Wildlife Management Area
38.56 N 82.28 W
South of Glenwood, this marshy area is good for birding at any time of the year. Look for Little Blue Herons, Great Egrets and Great Blue Herons.
Monongahela National Forest
38.19 N 80.13 W
The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is a good spot to see the birds of the Appalachian mountains. Alder Flycatcher, Mourning and Canada Warblers and Northern Waterthrush may be found. Follow the Highland Scenic Highway if you have time.
WISCONSIN
Crex Meadows Wildlife Area
45.81 N 92.73 W
The brush-prairie habitat and nearby wetlands attract a wide variety of species. You may even hear a Yellow Rail. Sandhill Cranes are abundant in the fall.
Devil's Lake State Park
43.42 N 89.73 W
Great scenery and a mix of northern and southern birds can be found here. For worm-eating Warbler, try nearby Baxter's Hollow Preserve. The International Crane Foundation is located just north of here in Baraboo.
Horicon Marsh
43.34 N 88.38 W
Roger Tory Peterson once selected this as one of his top dozen birding spots. HUGE staging area for migrating waterfowl.
WYOMING
Grand Teton National Park
43.89 N 110.75 W
Unbelievable scenery. Watch for Black Rosy-Finch atop Rendezvous Mountain. You may also spot Great Gray Owl, Boreal Owl, Trumpeter Swan and Three-toed Woodpecker in late June - early July. Check Jackson Lake for waterfowl.
Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge
41.70 N 109.70 W
This riparian habitat along the Green River support Mountain Bluebirds, Sage Thrashers and Sage Sparrows plus over 220 other species. Try floating down the river in the summer. Sandhill Cranes gather in the fall.
Snowy Range Scenic Byway
41.38 N 106.74 W
This road through the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest is open from late May until October. Watch for Townsend's Solitaire, Mountain Chickadees and Cordilleran Flycatchers. Stop at Brooklyn Lake.
Yellowstone National Park
44.51 N 110.81 W
This huge park is a wonderful place to look for Great Gray Owl, Three-toed and Black-backed Woodpecker. Hike the trails and check the habitat at different elevations. After watching "Old Faithful" erupt, bird the areas between it and Mammoth Hot Springs.
YUKON TERRITORY
Dempster Highway
65.00 N 135.13 W
Here is some real wilderness birding! The vast expanse of tundra north of Whitehorse is home to Surfbirds, Northern Wheatears and Gray-crowned Rosy Finches. Try Surfbird Mountain in late May for high alpine birds.
Kluane National Park and Reserve
61.00 N 138.50 W
Several of Canada's highest mountain peaks are in the park. Glaciers give way to valleys with spruce and aspen. Start at the Dezadeash River Trail and listen for warblers. All three ptarmigan are seen in the southern part of the Park.