Coastal birding habitat

Merritt Island

Florida · Southeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Merritt Island is a productive birding destination in Florida, with 237 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Western Cattle-Egret, Brown Pelican, and Egyptian Goose 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

Burrowing Owl

Athene cunicularia

6/3/2026100 Aerospace Drive, Melbourne, Florida, US (28.102, -80.628)1 observed

American Crow

Corvus brachyrhynchos

6/1/2026606 Gina Ln, Melbourne US-FL 28.24140, -80.687731 observed

American Kestrel

Falco sparverius

5/24/2026Kestrel Location2 observed

Gull-billed Tern

Gelochelidon nilotica

5/22/2026Jetty Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Eastern Screech-Owl

16/2/2026

Black Skimmer

36/2/2026

Rock Pigeon

56/2/2026

Chimney Swift

16/2/2026

Least Tern

56/2/2026

Royal Tern

46/2/2026

Anhinga

26/2/2026

White Ibis

86/2/2026

Little Blue Heron

16/2/2026

Snowy Egret

16/2/2026

Green Heron

16/2/2026

Brown Pelican

126/2/2026

Osprey

76/2/2026

Loggerhead Shrike

16/2/2026

Fish Crow

26/2/2026

European Starling

46/2/2026

Northern Mockingbird

26/2/2026

House Sparrow

26/2/2026

Common Grackle

86/2/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

26/2/2026

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Merritt Island for birding?
The best months to visit Merritt Island for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Merritt Island?
Notable species at Merritt Island include Western Cattle-Egret, Brown Pelican, Egyptian Goose, Blue-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Merritt Island?
Birding at Merritt Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Merritt Island?
Merritt Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.