10 Top Birding Destinations in the United States
As a passionate bird photographer, I highly recommend visiting these locations whether you’re an experienced birder or just starting out. They are absolute must-sees for anyone interested in the avian world.
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During the winter months, the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge becomes a temporary home for countless flocks of snow geese and sandhill cranes as they migrate to the area.
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As a passionate bird photographer and avid traveler, I’m always on the lookout for the most incredible places to spot avian species across the United States. While there are countless locations to choose from, there are a few that truly stand out as being particularly special and unique.
From the abundance of birds in certain areas to the diversity of unique species found in others, these special locations offer something truly remarkable for even the most experienced birders. Whether you’re looking to catch a glimpse of a once-in-a-lifetime bird or simply enjoy the thrill of observing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, these special locations won’t disappoint.
One thing that makes many of these locations even more special is their role as important stopovers for migrating birds. During the spring and winter seasons, many of these sites become even more vibrant and exciting as countless species pass through on their way to their final destinations.
Of all the states in the United States, Alaska stands out as the ultimate birdwatching destination, boasting a whopping 530 bird species – the most of any state in the country. From the majestic bald eagle to the rare Arctic tern, Alaska truly offers something for every bird lover and photographer.
So whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply looking to experience the beauty of nature in a new way, I highly recommend checking out some of these amazing birdwatching destinations across the United States. You never know what incredible avian species you might come across!
Discover the top 10 birding destinations in the United States!
Nome (Alaska)
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As a passionate bird photographer and avid traveler, I’m always on the lookout for the most incredible birdwatching destinations across the world. And one location that I simply can’t get enough of is Nome, Alaska – a stunningly remote and beautiful stretch of tundra that is simply teeming with amazing avian species.
Starting in late May, birders from all over the world flock to Nome to catch sight of these incredible creatures in their spectacular breeding plumage. From magnificent mergansers to striking Pacific golden plovers, there are countless species to observe and capture on camera.
But it’s not just the breeding plumage that makes Nome such an incredible birdwatching destination. Hundreds of species migrate to the area throughout the year, including some truly rare and remarkable birds like the bristle-thighed curlew, Arctic tern, red-necked grebe, red-necked phalarope, and red-throated loon.
As someone who has had the pleasure of visiting Nome and experiencing the incredible birdwatching opportunities firsthand, I can say without a doubt that this is one destination that every birder and bird photographer simply must experience at least once in their lifetime. With so many amazing species to observe and photograph, Nome is truly a bird lover’s paradise.
Nome has only three exits, and each of them provides a unique birdwatching experience. The Nome-Teller Highway is perfect for spotting plovers, while the Kougarok Road might offer a glimpse of the elusive bluethroats to the lucky and observant birder. The Nome-Council Road leads to Safety Sound, a beautiful nesting area and estuary for Aleutian and Arctic terns.
If you’re planning on visiting Nome, Alaska for birdwatching, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to understand that Nome is a remote location that requires a fair bit of travel time to reach. That being said, the journey is definitely worth it – once you arrive, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking natural scenery and a wealth of amazing bird species to observe and photograph.
To make the most of your trip, it’s a good idea to plan to stay in Nome for at least four or five days. This will give you ample time to explore the area and check off as many birds from your species list as possible. It’s worth noting that the best time to visit Nome for birdwatching is typically from late May onwards, when many species are in their stunning breeding plumage and the migration season is in full swing.
In terms of accommodation, there are several options available in Nome ranging from cozy B&Bs to larger hotels. Be sure to book your accommodation well in advance, as the area can get quite busy during peak birdwatching season.
Lastly, it’s important to come prepared for the trip. Bring along plenty of warm clothing, as temperatures in Nome can be chilly even during the summer months. Additionally, be sure to pack all the gear you’ll need for birdwatching and photography, including binoculars, a camera, and a sturdy tripod. With a little bit of planning and preparation, your trip to Nome is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime birdwatching adventure.
Mount Desert Island (Maine)
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Mount Desert Island, which is part of Acadia National Park, provides a diverse range of bird species all year round. This is thanks to its various habitats, such as coastline, forest, bog, and bare mountain peaks. This location is ideal for birdwatching any time of the year, but it’s particularly special during the seasonal migrations and nesting season.
Acadia National Park’s Mount Desert Island is home to various bird species that can be spotted throughout the year. Visitors can observe year-round residents such as bald eagles, gray jays, and black guillemots. During nesting season, seasonal inhabitants like Atlantic puffins, various warblers, and bobolinks can be seen.
For bird enthusiasts, the Acadia Birding Festival is a must-attend event. The festival takes place on Mount Desert Island every year in late May and early June, offering a great opportunity to meet fellow birders while exploring the area.
With its diverse range of habitats, Mount Desert Island is an ideal location for birdwatching. The island offers a mix of coastline, forest, bog, and mountain peaks, providing homes for various bird species. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a novice, a visit to Acadia National Park is sure to provide you with a memorable birding experience.
Grand Isle (Louisiana)
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Located in Louisiana, Grand Isle is a small barrier island that hosts the annual Grand Isle Migratory Bird Celebration in the spring. This festival aims to raise awareness of the importance of preserving the island’s forest habitat for birds. The area is particularly famous for its warblers, but there are also many other bird species to be seen. In total, visitors can spot around 100 different species of songbirds, swallow-tailed kites, terns, skimmers, pink roseate spoonbills, and more.
The Grand Isle Migratory Bird Celebration is a great opportunity for bird enthusiasts to get together, mingle with other birders, and enjoy the sights of this beautiful island. The festival offers various activities such as guided bird walks, live bird presentations, and educational talks by bird experts. It is a perfect chance for bird enthusiasts to learn more about the area’s birds and their habitats.
While the festival is held in the spring, Grand Isle is a fantastic birding destination year-round. Its diverse ecosystem, which includes beaches, wetlands, and forests, attracts a wide range of bird species. Bald eagles, brown pelicans, American oystercatchers, and other shorebirds can be spotted along the island’s sandy beaches. Meanwhile, visitors can see songbirds, wading birds, and other species in the wetlands and forests.
Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a casual observer, Grand Isle offers a wealth of birding opportunities. With its diverse habitats and wide range of bird species, this island is sure to impress any bird enthusiast who visits.
Migratory birds rely on the remaining oak forests on Grand Isle for shelter, food, and protection during their travels.
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge (New Mexico)
As a traveling photographer and bird enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of visiting some of the most remarkable birding destinations in the United States. From the rugged tundra of Alaska to the barrier island of Grand Isle, Louisiana, there is no shortage of exciting and diverse locations to explore.
One destination that stands out for its exceptional birding opportunities is Grand Isle. Located on a barrier island off the coast of Louisiana, Grand Isle hosts the annual Grand Isle Migratory Bird Celebration, which brings awareness to the conservation of the island’s small but vital forest habitat for birds. The festival is held each spring, honoring the avian visitors that make the journey to this special place.
The oak forests that remain on Grand Isle provide essential cover, food, and refuge to migrating birds. The area is well known for its abundance of warblers, but visitors can also spot around 100 different species of songbirds, swallow-tailed kites, terns, skimmers, pink roseate spoonbills, and more. It’s a true paradise for bird enthusiasts and a must-visit location for anyone interested in the conservation of these precious creatures.
Another birding hotspot that I have had the pleasure of visiting is Mount Desert Island, located in Acadia National Park in Maine. The island’s mix of habitats, including coastline, bog, forest, and bare mountain peaks, provide an ideal location for a diverse range of bird species. Year-round, visitors can spot bald eagles, gray jays, and black guillemots, while seasonal inhabitants include nesting Atlantic puffins, a variety of warblers, and bobolinks.
For those willing to venture to more remote locations, Nome, Alaska offers an unforgettable birding experience. In the summer months, visitors can catch sight of species in spectacular breeding plumage, from mergansers to Pacific golden plovers. Hundreds of species migrate to Nome, including bristle-thighed curlews, Arctic terns, red-necked grebes, red-necked phalaropes, and red-throated loons. The best way to explore the area is to plan to stay for at least four or five days to take in all the sights and check off as many boxes on your species list as possible.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, these locations offer some of the most incredible birding experiences in the United States. So grab your binoculars, pack your bags, and head out to explore the beauty and diversity of these remarkable destinations.
Nestled in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley of central New Mexico, the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination for any birding enthusiast. While the sandhill crane migration is a spectacular sight to behold and draws visitors from all over the world, this refuge has much more to offer.
With over 377 species of birds recorded on the refuge, it is a birdwatcher’s paradise. From bald eagles to great blue herons, visitors can observe a wide variety of birds year-round. Additionally, the refuge offers excellent opportunities to view waterfowl, including northern pintails, snow geese, and Canadian geese.
Bosque del Apache is an important stopover for migratory birds, making it a popular destination during spring and fall. During these seasons, birders can spot species such as sandpipers, yellow warblers, and summer tanagers.
The refuge is also home to a diversity of other wildlife, including mule deer, javelinas, and bobcats. Visitors can explore the area by car, on foot, or by bicycle on the refuge’s many trails.
Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a beginner, the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit location that offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
With over 400 observed bird species, the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge is more than just a migratory stop for sandhill cranes. Aside from being a popular gathering site for this species, the refuge also provides a breeding habitat for 100 other bird species. Visitors can spot a variety of waterbirds such as ducks and geese, and terrestrial birds like Gambel’s quail, roadrunners, and pheasants. Raptors such as bald eagles, golden eagles, northern harriers, and various hawks and falcons can be seen hunting for prey. Songbirds and gulls are abundant as well. The refuge’s picturesque mountain scenery is also a sight to behold.
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (Maryland)
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The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is home to marsh birds and bald eagles throughout the year, but the highlight is the massive number of ducks and geese that migrate to the area every spring and fall. The refuge was established as a safe haven for migratory waterfowl, and it serves its purpose well. The diversity of habitats, including forests, marshes, and shallow water, provides ideal conditions for species such as black ducks, blue- and green-winged teal, wigeons, and pintails.
Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is a birding paradise located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. While visitors can spot marsh birds and bald eagles year-round, the real highlight is the thousands of migrating ducks and geese that stop by every spring and fall. The refuge was created as a sanctuary for migrating waterfowl, and they certainly flock to it. Forests, marshes, and shallow water provide a variety of habitats for black ducks, blue- and green-winged teal, wigeons, and pintails. In fact, the refuge is home to the greatest density of nesting bald eagles in the eastern United States, excluding Florida. Ospreys, owls, woodpeckers, and wild turkeys are also common in the area.
In addition to waterfowl and raptors, visitors to Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge can also spot smaller species such as warblers, vireos, orioles, and flycatchers. The refuge offers a rich habitat for birders to explore, and its diverse range of habitats makes it an ideal location for observing a wide variety of bird species.
Whether you’re an experienced birder or just starting out, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge offers a unique opportunity to witness some of the most beautiful and diverse bird species in the United States. So grab your binoculars and head out to this Maryland oasis to enjoy a day of birding you won’t soon forget.
Cave Creek Canyon (Arizona)
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Cave Creek Canyon, located in the Chiricahua Mountains, presents remarkable birding opportunities throughout the year, with 375 bird species, such as the Mexican jay, Gambel’s quail, cactus wren, verdin, and curve-billed thrasher.
Cave Creek Canyon in the Chiricahua Mountains is a birding hotspot with a diverse range of bird species that can be spotted throughout the year. The canyon is home to over 375 different bird species, making it a must-visit destination for birders.
One of the highlights of birding in Cave Creek Canyon is the opportunity to see a wide variety of raptors. From the Western screech owl to the zone-tailed hawk and the majestic golden eagle, these birds of prey are a sight to behold. Another rare find in the canyon is the elegant trogon, a stunning bird that is elusive and difficult to spot. Only a few of these birds are seen in the canyon each summer, making it a true treasure for birders lucky enough to catch a glimpse.
Hummingbirds are another notable attraction in Cave Creek Canyon. The canyon is home to nearly every hummingbird species found in Arizona, making it a perfect spot for hummingbird enthusiasts. From the Anna’s hummingbird to the broad-tailed hummingbird, visitors can see these beautiful birds darting around the canyon.
Overall, Cave Creek Canyon is a must-visit location for any birder seeking a unique and diverse range of bird species. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a beginner, the canyon offers a memorable experience for all.
Monterey Bay (California)
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Monterey Bay is famous for its whale watching, sea otter sightings, and one of the nation’s top aquariums. However, it is also a destination that should not be missed by bird enthusiasts. While exploring the coastline, visitors can catch sight of various species of birds, such as black-footed albatross, tufted puffins, jaegers, shearwaters, and alcids. Additionally, close to the shore, birders can observe pelicans, California condors, Townsend’s warblers, snowy plovers, and cormorants, adding to their birding experience.
During migration season, Monterey Bay hosts thousands of wintering shorebirds as well as warblers and passerines. The variety and amount of birds found in Monterey Bay is as impressive as the underwater marine life for which the area is well-known. Participating in the annual Monterey Bay Birding Festival in September is an excellent opportunity for birders to observe a wide range of unique species while taking part in events with other bird enthusiasts.
Everglades National Park (Florida)
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The period from December to March is considered the optimal time for birding in Everglades National Park, which offers a breathtaking and exceptional watery environment. The park is home to approximately 360 bird species, including the anhinga (also known as the snake bird or water turkey), roseate spoonbill, white ibis, purple gallinule, various heron species, and several shorebirds. Moreover, a wide range of duck species and marsh birds can also be spotted within the boundaries of Everglades National Park.
Birders can find a diverse range of species in the ponds, and they can stand at the edge of the water to mark species off their lists. One can find wildlife all around, including hummingbirds in the flowering shrubs, and warblers, woodpeckers, owls, and hawks in the trees.
Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge (California)
When it comes to birding, there are few better destinations than South Padre Island in Texas. The island sits in the Gulf of Mexico, and its strategic location makes it a prime spot for bird migration. Over 300 bird species have been spotted on the island, and there’s always something new to see.
The island’s varied habitat includes sandy beaches, dunes, wetlands, and thorn scrub, making it an attractive destination for a wide variety of bird species. During migration season, birders can expect to see thousands of birds, including sandpipers, plovers, and terns. The island is also home to many resident species, such as the green jay, the white-tailed kite, and the plain chachalaca.
One of the island’s most popular birding spots is the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, which features a five-story tower that provides a panoramic view of the island’s wetlands. Visitors can also explore the center’s nature trails and boardwalks, which wind through the wetlands and offer opportunities to see a variety of bird species up close.
In addition to the birding center, there are several other birding hotspots on the island, including the Laguna Madre Nature Trail, the SPI Convention Centre, and the SPI Birding and Nature Center. The best time to visit for birding is during the spring and fall migrations, but there are always birds to see on South Padre Island.
Overall, South Padre Island is a must-visit destination for any serious birder. With its diverse habitats and location on a major migration route, the island offers endless opportunities to see new and exciting bird species.
Rewritten: Tule Lake is a prime destination for birdwatchers due to its significant location as a crucial stopover along the Pacific Flyway for migrating birds. The area encompasses four national wildlife refuges and extensive acres of private farmlands. Tule Lake itself is a vast 39,116-acre refuge and breeding ground for various wild birds and animals. While pelicans, gulls, terns, and diving ducks occupy the deeper wetlands, rails, ibis, egrets, and herons thrive in the cattails that grow in the shallower areas.
The Tule Lake area has several small bird species, including the yellow-headed blackbird, northern oriole, yellow-rumped warbler, and marsh wren. During winter, hundreds of bald eagles can also be found in the area. To enable wildlife photographers to get a closer look at the species while remaining hidden, Tule Lake has designated photography blinds that can be reserved.
Denali National Park and Preserve (Alaska)
When it comes to birding in the United States, there are few places as diverse and rewarding as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, this expansive park is home to over 240 species of birds.
One of the most popular species for birders to spot in the Great Smoky Mountains is the black-capped chickadee. These small, charming birds are known for their distinctive black caps and calls that sound like “chick-a-dee-dee-dee.” Other common species in the park include the tufted titmouse, the Carolina chickadee, and the white-breasted nuthatch.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also home to several species of raptors, including the peregrine falcon, the sharp-shinned hawk, and the red-tailed hawk. In addition, visitors may be lucky enough to spot the elusive Northern saw-whet owl or the majestic bald eagle.
If you’re a bird photographer, the Great Smoky Mountains offers plenty of opportunities to capture stunning images of your favorite species. There are many trails and overlooks throughout the park that offer excellent vantage points for bird photography.
Overall, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for any serious birder. Whether you’re an experienced bird watcher or a beginner, the park’s diverse array of species and stunning natural beauty make it a truly special place to explore.
Denali National Park in Alaska is one of the best places for wildlife enthusiasts, including birders. With approximately 160 different bird species recorded in the park, most of them seasonal, visitors can witness a variety of nesting behaviors in the spring, including those of the golden eagle and black-capped chickadee.
The northern hawk owl, a rare and elusive bird, is also known to make its home in the park. Denali is also a prime location for raptor sightings, with species such as gyrfalcons, northern goshawks, merlins, and peregrine falcons making appearances.
Water birds are abundant as well, with wigeons, shovelers, scaups, long-tailed ducks, loons, mergansers, and scoters among the species that can be seen in the park. There are also resident birds like the willow ptarmigan, the great-horned owl, and the downy woodpecker that can be spotted throughout the year.
For visitors interested in bird photography, Denali National Park offers plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos. With the spectacular Alaskan wilderness as a backdrop, photographers can capture some of the park’s most elusive species from designated photography blinds.
In conclusion, Denali National Park is a bird lover’s paradise. With its vast and diverse landscape, visitors can witness a wide variety of bird species and behaviors throughout the year. Whether you are an experienced birder or just starting, Denali is a must-visit destination for any wildlife enthusiast.
Denali National Park in Alaska is one of the best places for wildlife enthusiasts, including birders. With approximately 160 different bird species recorded in the park, most of them seasonal, visitors can witness a variety of nesting behaviors in the spring, including those of the golden eagle and black-capped chickadee.
The northern hawk owl, a rare and elusive bird, is also known to make its home in the park. Denali is also a prime location for raptor sightings, with species such as gyrfalcons, northern goshawks, merlins, and peregrine falcons making appearances.
Water birds are abundant as well, with wigeons, shovelers, scaups, long-tailed ducks, loons, mergansers, and scoters among the species that can be seen in the park. There are also resident birds like the willow ptarmigan, the great-horned owl, and the downy woodpecker that can be spotted throughout the year.
For visitors interested in bird photography, Denali National Park offers plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos. With the spectacular Alaskan wilderness as a backdrop, photographers can capture some of the park’s most elusive species from designated photography blinds.
In conclusion, Denali National Park is a bird lover’s paradise. With its vast and diverse landscape, visitors can witness a wide variety of bird species and behaviors throughout the year. Whether you are an experienced birder or just starting, Denali is a must-visit destination for any wildlife enthusiast.
