Hammonasset Beach State Park
Connecticut · Northeast
Easy
April-May, August-October
$15-22 per vehicle (seasonal)
8 AM to sunset
About This Location
Connecticut's largest shoreline park stretches over two miles along Long Island Sound, offering a diverse mix of beach, salt marsh, and wooded habitats that make it the state's premier birding destination. The Willard's Island nature trail and Meigs Point area are migration magnets.
Over 300 species have been recorded here, with peak activity during spring and fall migration. Shorebirds work the tidal flats, warblers fill the thickets, and seabirds pass offshore. Winter brings ducks, loons, and occasional Snowy Owls.
Location
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Notable Species
Live Bird Data
Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Notable Sightings
Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days
White Ibis
Eudocimus albus
Boat-tailed Grackle
Quiscalus major
White-faced Ibis
Plegadis chihi
Black-necked Stilt
Himantopus mexicanus
Least Bittern
Botaurus exilis
Recent Observations
Species reported at this location in the last 14 days
Mourning Dove
Chimney Swift
Killdeer
Double-crested Cormorant
Green Heron
Great Blue Heron
Osprey
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Willow Flycatcher
Great Crested Flycatcher
Eastern Warbling Vireo
Red-eyed Vireo
Blue Jay
American Crow
Black-capped Chickadee
Tufted Titmouse
Tree Swallow
White-breasted Nuthatch
Birding Tips
- 1
Walk the Willard's Island trail at dawn during May migration for peak warbler activity
- 2
Check the tidal flats at low tide for shorebirds from July through September
- 3
Visit during spring migration (April-May) for the greatest species diversity
- 4
Fall migration (September-October) brings waves of southbound warblers and raptors
- 5
Arrive at dawn for peak bird activity, especially during migration seasons
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
- Meigs Point Nature Center
- Henry Whitfield State Museum
More in Connecticut
Connecticut Birding Guide
Complete guide to birding in Connecticut →