Coastal birding habitat

Crane Beach

Massachusetts · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Crane Beach is a productive birding destination in Massachusetts, with 287 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts American Black Duck, Common Eider, and White-winged 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

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Nyctanassa violacea

6/2/2026Parker River NWR--Hellcat Boardwalk Trail2 observed

Bay-breasted Warbler

Setophaga castanea

6/2/2026Parker River NWR--Hellcat Boardwalk Trail1 observed

King Rail

Rallus elegans

6/2/2026Plum Island--Parker River NWR & Sandy Pt. State Reservation1 observed

Clapper Rail

Rallus crepitans

6/2/2026Plum Island--Parker River NWR & Sandy Pt. State Reservation2 observed

Little Egret

Egretta garzetta

6/1/202651 Highland Avenue, Hampton, New Hampshire, US (42.915, -70.813)2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wild Turkey

36/2/2026

Mourning Dove

26/2/2026

Chimney Swift

66/2/2026

American Herring Gull

26/2/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

16/2/2026

Glossy Ibis

16/2/2026

Great Egret

26/2/2026

Turkey Vulture

16/2/2026

Osprey

16/2/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

16/2/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

16/2/2026

Northern Flicker

16/2/2026

Eastern Phoebe

16/2/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

16/2/2026

Eastern Kingbird

26/2/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

16/2/2026

Tree Swallow

26/2/2026

Barn Swallow

56/2/2026

Carolina Wren

26/2/2026

European Starling

16/2/2026

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 Crane Beach for birding?
The best months to visit Crane Beach for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Crane Beach?
Notable species at Crane Beach include American Black Duck, Common Eider, White-winged Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Common Goldeneye. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Crane Beach?
Birding at Crane Beach is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Crane Beach?
Crane Beach offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.