Coastal birding habitat

BHI - Deer Island

Massachusetts · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

BHI - Deer Island is a productive birding destination in Massachusetts, with 219 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Brant, Greater Scaup, and Surf 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

Bridled Tern

Onychoprion anaethetus

7/22/2026Jericho Boat Launch, Scituate US-MA 42.20139, -70.726281 observed

Little Blue Heron

Egretta caerulea

7/22/2026Belle Isle Marsh1 observed

Ruddy Duck

Oxyura jamaicensis

7/21/2026Cambridge Reservoir1 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

7/21/2026707 Shirley Street, Winthrop, Massachusetts, US (42.367, -70.973)1 observed

Wilson's Storm-Petrel

Oceanites oceanicus

7/21/2026Black Falcon Pier30 observed

American Kestrel

Falco sparverius

7/21/2026Squantum Marshes2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Common Eider

7/21/2026

White-winged Scoter

17/21/2026

Mourning Dove

27/21/2026

American Oystercatcher

57/21/2026

Killdeer

27/21/2026

Spotted Sandpiper

27/21/2026

Ring-billed Gull

17/21/2026

American Herring Gull

7/21/2026

Great Black-backed Gull

97/21/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

7/21/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/21/2026

Northern Flicker

17/21/2026

Tree Swallow

27/21/2026

Barn Swallow

57/21/2026

European Starling

17/21/2026

Northern Mockingbird

57/21/2026

American Robin

7/21/2026

House Sparrow

27/21/2026

American Goldfinch

7/21/2026

Song Sparrow

17/21/2026

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

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit BHI - Deer Island for birding?
The best months to visit BHI - Deer Island for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at BHI - Deer Island?
Notable species at BHI - Deer Island include Brant, Greater Scaup, Surf Scoter, Black Scoter, Long-tailed Duck. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at BHI - Deer Island?
Birding at BHI - Deer Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at BHI - Deer Island?
BHI - Deer Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.