Coastal birding habitat

Cape May Harbor

New Jersey · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Cape May Harbor is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 224 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts American Black Duck, White-winged Scoter, and Bufflehead 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

Wood Stork

Mycteria americana

7/18/2026Cape Island--CMPSP--Hawkwatch Platform1 observed

Roseate Tern

Sterna dougallii

7/17/2026Cape Henlopen SP--The Point1 observed

Mississippi Kite

Ictinia mississippiensis

7/16/2026Stevens Street-yard1 observed

Gull-billed Tern

Gelochelidon nilotica

7/14/2026Cape Henlopen SP--Gordon's Pond Trail North1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Rock Pigeon

47/9/2026

Mourning Dove

47/9/2026

Clapper Rail

17/9/2026

American Herring Gull

27/9/2026

Black Skimmer

27/9/2026

Forster's Tern

27/9/2026

Glossy Ibis

117/9/2026

Snowy Egret

27/9/2026

Great Egret

37/9/2026

Osprey

47/9/2026

Fish Crow

27/9/2026

Tree Swallow

17/9/2026

American Robin

67/9/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

27/9/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

37/9/2026

Common Grackle

27/9/2026

Boat-tailed Grackle

17/9/2026

Canada Goose

7/9/2026

American Oystercatcher

27/9/2026

Semipalmated Plover

17/9/2026

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 May Harbor for birding?
The best months to visit Cape May Harbor for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cape May Harbor?
Notable species at Cape May Harbor include American Black Duck, White-winged Scoter, Bufflehead, Red-breasted Merganser, Ruddy Duck. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cape May Harbor?
Birding at Cape May Harbor is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cape May Harbor?
Cape May Harbor offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.