Forest birding habitat

Fort Matanzas National Monument

Florida · Southeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Fort Matanzas National Monument is a productive birding destination in Florida, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Brown Pelican, Great Horned Owl, and Downy Woodpecker among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

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

Spotted Sandpiper

Actitis macularius

6/2/2026Sand Dollar Condo's Beach1 observed

Short-tailed Hawk

Buteo brachyurus

6/1/2026Walking from Athe Doubletree to The Historic District, St. Augustine, Florida, US1 observed

Magnificent Frigatebird

Fregata magnificens

5/25/20266975 Charles St1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

15/29/2026

Wilson's Plover

85/29/2026

Ruddy Turnstone

65/29/2026

Sanderling

105/29/2026

Laughing Gull

355/29/2026

Least Tern

125/29/2026

Royal Tern

555/29/2026

Wood Stork

15/29/2026

Reddish Egret

25/29/2026

Great Blue Heron

25/29/2026

Brown Pelican

505/29/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/29/2026

Osprey

25/29/2026

Blue Jay

15/29/2026

American Crow

35/29/2026

Fish Crow

45/29/2026

Tufted Titmouse

15/29/2026

Carolina Wren

25/29/2026

Northern Mockingbird

15/29/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

25/29/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Fort Matanzas National Monument for birding?
The best months to visit Fort Matanzas National Monument for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Fort Matanzas National Monument?
Notable species at Fort Matanzas National Monument include Brown Pelican, Great Horned Owl, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, White-eyed Vireo. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Fort Matanzas National Monument?
Birding at Fort Matanzas National Monument is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Fort Matanzas National Monument?
Fort Matanzas National Monument offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.