Coastal birding habitat

West Island, Fairhaven

Massachusetts · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

West Island, Fairhaven is a productive birding destination in Massachusetts, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Blue Jay, European Starling, and Northern Mockingbird 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

Willet (Eastern)

Tringa semipalmata

4/17/2026Horseneck Beach SP--Westport River3 observed

Willet

Tringa semipalmata

4/16/2026Little Harbor Beach2 observed

White-crowned Sparrow

Zonotrichia leucophrys

4/16/2026Hoft Farm Preserve (TNC)1 observed

Black-and-white Warbler

Mniotilta varia

4/16/2026Watuppa trails Blossom Road2 observed

Northern Waterthrush

Parkesia noveboracensis

4/16/2026Watuppa trails Blossom Road5 observed

American Wigeon x Mallard (hybrid)

Mareca americana x Anas platyrhynchos

4/16/2026Egypt Lane Ponds, Fairhaven1 observed

Black Vulture

Coragyps atratus

4/15/2026Woodneck Beach and Marsh1 observed

Little Blue Heron

Egretta caerulea

4/14/2026Star of the Sea Dr, South Dartmouth US-MA (41.5997,-70.9665)1 observed

Black Skimmer

Rynchops niger

4/14/2026Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary (Mass Audubon)5 observed

Northern Pintail

Anas acuta

4/14/2026Goosewing Beach Preserve & Quicksand Pond4 observed

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Nyctanassa violacea

4/12/2026Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary (Mass Audubon)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mute Swan

24/15/2026

Mallard

24/15/2026

Common Eider

84/15/2026

Surf Scoter

34/15/2026

Bufflehead

24/15/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

804/15/2026

American Oystercatcher

24/15/2026

Piping Plover

34/15/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

74/15/2026

Dunlin

124/15/2026

Ring-billed Gull

24/15/2026

American Herring Gull

224/15/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

84/15/2026

Great Egret

24/15/2026

Osprey

24/15/2026

Downy Woodpecker

14/15/2026

Common Raven

84/15/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

124/15/2026

Tufted Titmouse

104/15/2026

American Robin

44/15/2026

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 West Island, Fairhaven for birding?
The best months to visit West Island, Fairhaven for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at West Island, Fairhaven?
Notable species at West Island, Fairhaven include Blue Jay, European Starling, Northern Mockingbird, House Sparrow, Song Sparrow. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at West Island, Fairhaven?
Birding at West Island, Fairhaven is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at West Island, Fairhaven?
West Island, Fairhaven offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.