a view of the ocean from a hill

Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)

New Jersey · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free (beach fees in summer)

Hours

Open daily, dawn to dusk

About This Location

Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 379 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Mourning Dove, American Robin, and House Finch 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

Black-throated Green Warbler

Setophaga virens

5/31/2026Cape Island--CMP--CMBO Northwood Center1 observed

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

5/31/2026Cape Island--SCMM--Cove Pool1 observed

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

5/31/2026Prime Hook NWR--Dike Trail (formerly Observation Point Trail)1 observed

Red-shouldered Hawk

Buteo lineatus

5/31/2026Cape Island--CMP--Coral Ave. dune crossing1 observed

Stilt Sandpiper

Calidris himantopus

5/31/2026Cape Island--South Cape May Meadows (SCMM)

Black Scoter

Melanitta americana

5/31/2026East Point Lighthouse1 observed

American Barn Owl

Tyto furcata

5/30/2026566 Stipsons Island Road, Woodbine, New Jersey, US (39.188, -74.912)1 observed

American Barn Owl (American)

Tyto furcata

5/30/2026Stipson Island Rd.1 observed

Pileated Woodpecker

Dryocopus pileatus

5/30/2026B&D Gardens1 observed

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

5/30/2026Cape Henlopen SP--Gordon's Pond Trail north1 observed

Nelson's Sparrow

Ammospiza nelsoni

5/30/2026Thompson's Beach and Road2 observed

White-winged Dove

Zenaida asiatica

5/30/2026Stevens St. Yard1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mute Swan

25/25/2026

Mourning Dove

25/25/2026

Chimney Swift

25/25/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

15/25/2026

Laughing Gull

15/25/2026

Least Tern

25/25/2026

Forster's Tern

15/25/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

15/25/2026

Red-eyed Vireo

15/25/2026

Blue Jay

15/25/2026

Fish Crow

15/25/2026

Tufted Titmouse

15/25/2026

Barn Swallow

35/25/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

15/25/2026

Northern House Wren

15/25/2026

Carolina Wren

15/25/2026

European Starling

15/25/2026

Gray Catbird

15/25/2026

American Robin

15/25/2026

Cedar Waxwing

15/25/2026

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.

  4. 4

    Onshore winds can push pelagic species closer to shore, making post-storm days excellent for rarities.

  5. 5

    Check access conditions and any ferry schedules before planning your trip to ensure the site is reachable.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) for birding?
The best months to visit Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
Notable species at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) include Mourning Dove, American Robin, House Finch, White-throated Sparrow, Mute Swan, Turkey Vulture, Northern Harrier, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
Birding at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
Is there an entrance fee at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
The entrance fee at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) is Free (beach fees in summer). Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk.
What amenities are available at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.