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

Chestnut-sided Warbler

Setophaga pensylvanica

6/2/202602739, Mattapoisett US-MA (41.6444,-70.8161)

Blue Grosbeak

Passerina caerulea

6/2/2026Frances A. Crane WMA2 observed

Glossy Ibis

Plegadis falcinellus

6/1/2026Penikese Island15 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

6/1/2026Frances A. Crane WMA1 observed

Harlequin Duck

Histrionicus histrionicus

6/1/2026South Cape Beach SP1 observed

Gadwall

Mareca strepera

6/1/202622 Drift Rd, Falmouth US-MA 41.59259, -70.645072 observed

Yellow-crowned Night Heron

Nyctanassa violacea

6/1/202622 Drift Rd, Falmouth US-MA 41.59259, -70.645072 observed

Worm-eating Warbler

Helmitheros vermivorum

5/31/2026Hoft Farm Preserve (TNC)1 observed

Wood Duck

Aix sponsa

5/30/2026Hoft Farm Preserve (TNC)10 observed

Black Tern

Chlidonias niger

5/30/2026Gooseberry Neck1 observed

Little Blue Heron

Egretta caerulea

5/29/2026Allens Pond WS--Allens Neck (Mass Audubon)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Piping Plover

25/23/2026

Willet

35/23/2026

Common Tern

55/23/2026

Common Loon

15/23/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

85/23/2026

Osprey

35/23/2026

Song Sparrow

15/23/2026

Common Grackle

15/23/2026

Mallard

35/23/2026

Mourning Dove

15/23/2026

American Herring Gull

15/23/2026

Great Black-backed Gull

25/23/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/23/2026

Blue Jay

15/23/2026

Fish Crow

15/23/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

15/23/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

15/23/2026

Gray Catbird

35/23/2026

American Robin

45/23/2026

House Sparrow

15/23/2026

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.