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

Great-tailed Grackle

Quiscalus mexicanus

7/18/2026Kelly Park - East1 observed

Belted Kingfisher

Megaceryle alcyon

7/8/2026SR-528 E, Cocoa US-FL 28.40214, -80.738261 observed

Monk Parakeet

Myiopsitta monachus

7/5/2026Eau Gallie Pier2 observed

American Crow

Corvus brachyrhynchos

7/5/2026River Lakes Conservation Area--Moccasin Island3 observed

Short-tailed Hawk

Buteo brachyurus

7/4/2026SR-528 Toll W, Cocoa US-FL 28.41375, -80.837831 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Magnificent Frigatebird

17/17/2026

Gray Kingbird

17/17/2026

Anhinga

37/17/2026

Osprey

17/17/2026

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck

67/17/2026

Mallard x Mottled Duck (hybrid)

187/17/2026

Lesser Scaup

17/17/2026

Rock Pigeon

37/17/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

27/17/2026

Mourning Dove

127/17/2026

Chimney Swift

257/17/2026

Laughing Gull

37/17/2026

Caspian Tern

17/17/2026

Royal Tern

167/17/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

207/17/2026

White Ibis

107/17/2026

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

17/17/2026

Little Blue Heron

27/17/2026

Tricolored Heron

17/17/2026

Snowy Egret

37/17/2026

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.