Coastal birding habitat

Big Stone Beach

Delaware · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Big Stone Beach is a productive birding destination in Delaware, with 234 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Wild Turkey, Ring-billed Gull, and American Herring Gull among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

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

Gull-billed Tern

Gelochelidon nilotica

7/21/2026Prime Hook NWR--Petersfield Ditch1 observed

Cliff Swallow

Petrochelidon pyrrhonota

7/19/2026DuPont Nature Center and Lighthouse Rd.1 observed

Northern Harrier

Circus hudsonius

7/17/2026Little Creek WA--Mahon Impoundment1 observed

Saltmarsh Sparrow

Ammospiza caudacuta

7/16/2026Lower Murderkill River2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

27/7/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/7/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

17/7/2026

Laughing Gull

37/7/2026

Osprey

37/7/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/7/2026

Northern Flicker

17/7/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

17/7/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

17/7/2026

Eastern Kingbird

17/7/2026

Blue Jay

17/7/2026

Fish Crow

17/7/2026

Tufted Titmouse

17/7/2026

Tree Swallow

17/7/2026

Barn Swallow

37/7/2026

Northern House Wren

17/7/2026

Marsh Wren

37/7/2026

Carolina Wren

17/7/2026

European Starling

27/7/2026

Gray Catbird

17/7/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Big Stone Beach for birding?
The best months to visit Big Stone Beach for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Big Stone Beach?
Notable species at Big Stone Beach include Wild Turkey, Ring-billed Gull, American Herring Gull, Great Blue Heron, Sharp-shinned Hawk. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Big Stone Beach?
Birding at Big Stone Beach is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Big Stone Beach?
Big Stone Beach offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.