Coastal birding habitat

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (Volusia co.)

Florida · Southeast

Habitat
CoastalWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (Volusia co.) is a productive birding destination in Florida, with 221 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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 Kestrel

Falco sparverius

7/17/2026Merritt Island NWR--Black Point Wildlife Drive1 observed

American Bittern

Botaurus lentiginosus

7/11/2026Orlando Wetlands1 observed

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Nyctanassa violacea

7/11/2026Orlando Wetlands1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Common Ground Dove

27/14/2026

Mourning Dove

27/14/2026

Black-necked Stilt

27/14/2026

Anhinga

207/14/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

37/14/2026

White Ibis

17/14/2026

Roseate Spoonbill

17/14/2026

Least Bittern

17/14/2026

Little Blue Heron

27/14/2026

Tricolored Heron

107/14/2026

Snowy Egret

27/14/2026

Green Heron

47/14/2026

Great Egret

57/14/2026

Great Blue Heron

37/14/2026

Brown Pelican

27/14/2026

Black Vulture

407/14/2026

Turkey Vulture

67/14/2026

Osprey

507/14/2026

Mississippi Kite

17/14/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

17/14/2026

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 (Volusia co.) for birding?
The best months to visit Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (Volusia co.) 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 (Volusia co.)?
Notable species at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (Volusia co.) include Sanderling, Brown Pelican, Osprey, Royal Tern, Willet. The area supports coastal, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (Volusia co.)?
Birding at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (Volusia co.) 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 (Volusia co.)?
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge (Volusia co.) offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.