Coastal birding habitat

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - Bio Lab Road

Florida · Southeast

Habitat
CoastalWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - Bio Lab Road is a productive birding destination in Florida, with 232 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and wetland habitat attracts Mottled Duck, Common Gallinule, and American Coot 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

American Flamingo

Phoenicopterus ruber

7/19/2026Merritt Island NWR--Haulover Canal Area11 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Common Gallinule

17/19/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

17/19/2026

Tricolored Heron

37/19/2026

Green Heron

17/19/2026

Great Egret

17/19/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/19/2026

Brown Pelican

17/19/2026

Osprey

67/19/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

37/19/2026

Black-necked Stilt

67/19/2026

Anhinga

17/19/2026

Snowy Egret

17/19/2026

Black Vulture

17/19/2026

Turkey Vulture

37/19/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

27/19/2026

Northern Cardinal

17/19/2026

Common Ground Dove

17/19/2026

Mourning Dove

37/19/2026

Killdeer

17/19/2026

Least Sandpiper

57/19/2026

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 National Wildlife Refuge - Bio Lab Road for birding?
The best months to visit Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - Bio Lab Road for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - Bio Lab Road?
Notable species at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - Bio Lab Road include Mottled Duck, Common Gallinule, American Coot, Limpkin, Black-bellied Plover. The area supports coastal, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - Bio Lab Road?
Birding at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - Bio Lab Road is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - Bio Lab Road?
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge - Bio Lab Road offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.