Coastal birding habitat

River Lakes Conservation Area - Moccasin Island

Florida · Southeast

Habitat
CoastalRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

River Lakes Conservation Area - Moccasin Island is a productive birding destination in Florida, with 221 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and river/riparian habitat attracts Northern Bobwhite, Mourning Dove, and Limpkin 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 Crow

Corvus brachyrhynchos

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

American Kestrel (Cuban)

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

Common Ground Dove

15/23/2026

Mourning Dove

15/23/2026

Sandhill Crane

45/23/2026

Black-necked Stilt

55/23/2026

Anhinga

15/23/2026

White Ibis

15/23/2026

Glossy Ibis

55/23/2026

Little Blue Heron

45/23/2026

Tricolored Heron

35/23/2026

Green Heron

15/23/2026

Western Cattle-Egret

45/23/2026

Great Egret

65/23/2026

Great Blue Heron

25/23/2026

Black Vulture

15/23/2026

Turkey Vulture

65/23/2026

Osprey

15/23/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

25/23/2026

White-eyed Vireo

15/23/2026

Blue Jay

15/23/2026

American Crow

35/23/2026

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 River Lakes Conservation Area - Moccasin Island for birding?
The best months to visit River Lakes Conservation Area - Moccasin Island for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at River Lakes Conservation Area - Moccasin Island?
Notable species at River Lakes Conservation Area - Moccasin Island include Northern Bobwhite, Mourning Dove, Limpkin, Sandhill Crane, Wilson's Snipe. The area supports coastal, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at River Lakes Conservation Area - Moccasin Island?
Birding at River Lakes Conservation Area - Moccasin Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at River Lakes Conservation Area - Moccasin Island?
River Lakes Conservation Area - Moccasin Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.