Coastal birding habitat

Cape Island - Garrett Family Preserve

New Jersey · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Cape Island - Garrett Family Preserve is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 261 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Brant, Mourning Dove, and Northern Flicker 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-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

6/2/2026Cape Island--South Cape May Meadows (SCMM)1 observed

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

6/1/2026Yard List- West Cape May1 observed

American Barn Owl

Tyto furcata

5/31/2026Stipson Island Rd.2 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Chimney Swift

15/30/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

15/30/2026

Laughing Gull

45/30/2026

White Ibis

55/30/2026

Little Blue Heron

15/30/2026

Tricolored Heron

15/30/2026

Snowy Egret

25/30/2026

Black Vulture

25/30/2026

Turkey Vulture

15/30/2026

Osprey

35/30/2026

American Crow

15/30/2026

Fish Crow

15/30/2026

Tree Swallow

15/30/2026

Purple Martin

25/30/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

15/30/2026

Barn Swallow

15/30/2026

Carolina Wren

15/30/2026

European Starling

15/30/2026

American Robin

55/30/2026

House Sparrow

15/30/2026

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 Cape Island - Garrett Family Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Cape Island - Garrett Family Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cape Island - Garrett Family Preserve?
Notable species at Cape Island - Garrett Family Preserve include Brant, Mourning Dove, Northern Flicker, Blue Jay, American Crow. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cape Island - Garrett Family Preserve?
Birding at Cape Island - Garrett Family Preserve is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Cape Island - Garrett Family Preserve?
Cape Island - Garrett Family Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.