Forest birding habitat

Matinicus Rock

Maine · Northeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Matinicus Rock is a productive birding destination in Maine, with 239 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Common Eider, Harlequin Duck, and Black Scoter among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

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

Black Tern

Chlidonias niger

5/27/2026Seal Island NWR (island vicinity ONLY)1 observed

American Oystercatcher

Haematopus palliatus

5/23/2026Matinicus Rock2 observed

Glossy Ibis

Plegadis falcinellus

5/22/2026Matinicus Rock10 observed

Manx Shearwater

Puffinus puffinus

5/19/2026Matinicus Rock

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Common Eider

775/27/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

125/27/2026

Atlantic Puffin

1775/27/2026

Black Guillemot

1545/27/2026

Razorbill

1445/27/2026

Common Murre

425/27/2026

Laughing Gull

15/27/2026

American Herring Gull

795/27/2026

Great Black-backed Gull

1105/27/2026

Arctic Tern

4005/27/2026

Common Tern

1755/27/2026

Common Loon

25/27/2026

Leach's Storm-Petrel

5/27/2026

Manx Shearwater

5/27/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

205/27/2026

Peregrine Falcon

15/27/2026

Common Raven

25/27/2026

Gray Catbird

15/27/2026

Cedar Waxwing

15/27/2026

White-throated Sparrow

15/27/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Matinicus Rock for birding?
The best months to visit Matinicus Rock for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Matinicus Rock?
Notable species at Matinicus Rock include Common Eider, Harlequin Duck, Black Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Red-breasted Merganser. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Matinicus Rock?
Birding at Matinicus Rock is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Matinicus Rock?
Matinicus Rock offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.