Coastal birding habitat

Cape Island - SCMM - Cove Pool

New Jersey · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Cape Island - SCMM - Cove Pool is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 261 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts a wide variety of species 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

6/1/2026Cape 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

Black-throated Green Warbler

Setophaga virens

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

American Barn Owl (American)

Tyto furcata

5/30/2026Stipson Island Rd.1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Turkey Vulture

16/1/2026

Mallard

196/1/2026

Mourning Dove

36/1/2026

Chimney Swift

36/1/2026

Virginia Rail

16/1/2026

American Oystercatcher

36/1/2026

Killdeer

16/1/2026

Semipalmated Sandpiper

6/1/2026

Laughing Gull

16/1/2026

Snowy Egret

16/1/2026

Osprey

16/1/2026

Willow Flycatcher

16/1/2026

Tree Swallow

16/1/2026

Purple Martin

86/1/2026

Barn Swallow

16/1/2026

Carolina Wren

36/1/2026

Gray Catbird

26/1/2026

Northern Mockingbird

16/1/2026

American Robin

36/1/2026

House Finch

16/1/2026

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 - SCMM - Cove Pool for birding?
The best months to visit Cape Island - SCMM - Cove Pool for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cape Island - SCMM - Cove Pool?
Notable species at Cape Island - SCMM - Cove Pool include Sanderling, Brown Pelican, Osprey, Royal Tern, Willet. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cape Island - SCMM - Cove Pool?
Birding at Cape Island - SCMM - Cove Pool is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Cape Island - SCMM - Cove Pool?
Cape Island - SCMM - Cove Pool offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.