Coastal birding habitat

Newburyport Harbor

Massachusetts · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Newburyport Harbor is a productive birding destination in Massachusetts, with 268 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Mute Swan, and Gadwall 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

6/2/2026Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary (Mass Audubon)1 observed

Lincoln's Sparrow

Melospiza lincolnii

6/2/2026Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary (Mass Audubon)1 observed

King Rail

Rallus elegans

6/2/2026Parker River Wildlife Refuge1 observed

Thick-billed Murre

Uria lomvia

6/2/2026Rye Harbor1 observed

Bay-breasted Warbler

Setophaga castanea

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

Caspian Tern

Hydroprogne caspia

6/2/2026Odiorne Point SP, Rye1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

56/2/2026

Rock Pigeon

36/2/2026

American Herring Gull

6/2/2026

Common Tern

36/2/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

536/2/2026

Great Egret

26/2/2026

Great Blue Heron

46/2/2026

Osprey

16/2/2026

Bald Eagle

26/2/2026

Peregrine Falcon

26/2/2026

Common Grackle

16/2/2026

Fish Crow

15/31/2026

European Starling

35/31/2026

Song Sparrow

25/31/2026

Mute Swan

85/29/2026

Mourning Dove

25/29/2026

Willet

495/29/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

15/29/2026

Bonaparte's Gull

15/29/2026

Great Black-backed Gull

15/29/2026

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 Newburyport Harbor for birding?
The best months to visit Newburyport Harbor for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Newburyport Harbor?
Notable species at Newburyport Harbor include Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Newburyport Harbor?
Birding at Newburyport Harbor is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Newburyport Harbor?
Newburyport Harbor offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.