River/Riparian birding habitat

River to Sea Preserve

Florida · Southeast

Habitat
River/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

River to Sea Preserve is a productive birding destination in Florida, with 218 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian habitat attracts Hooded Merganser, Mourning Dove, and Royal Tern 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

Spotted Sandpiper

Actitis macularius

6/2/2026Sand Dollar Condo's Beach1 observed

Short-tailed Hawk

Buteo brachyurus

6/1/2026Walking from Athe Doubletree to The Historic District, St. Augustine, Florida, US1 observed

Magnificent Frigatebird

Fregata magnificens

5/25/20266975 Charles St1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

25/24/2026

Snowy Egret

25/24/2026

Green Heron

15/24/2026

Black Vulture

15/24/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/24/2026

Osprey

105/24/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

65/24/2026

Common Ground Dove

15/24/2026

Chimney Swift

25/24/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

15/24/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/24/2026

Brown Pelican

25/24/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

15/24/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

25/24/2026

Pileated Woodpecker

25/24/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/24/2026

American Crow

25/24/2026

Tufted Titmouse

25/24/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

25/24/2026

Carolina Wren

55/24/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit River to Sea Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit River to Sea Preserve for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at River to Sea Preserve?
Notable species at River to Sea Preserve include Hooded Merganser, Mourning Dove, Royal Tern, Anhinga, Double-crested Cormorant. The area supports river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at River to Sea Preserve?
Birding at River to Sea Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at River to Sea Preserve?
River to Sea Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.