Wetland birding habitat

Cape May National Wildlife Refuge - Cedar Swamp Creek

New Jersey · Northeast

Habitat
WetlandRiver/Riparian
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Cape May National Wildlife Refuge - Cedar Swamp Creek is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This wetland and river/riparian habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

Location

Loading map...

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

American Barn Owl

Tyto furcata

6/2/2026Stipson Island Rd.1 observed

Pileated Woodpecker

Dryocopus pileatus

6/2/2026Weatherby Rd--Tarkiln Pond & vicinity1 observed

Red-shouldered Hawk

Buteo lineatus

6/2/2026Weatherby Rd--Tarkiln Pond & vicinity1 observed

Black Scoter

Melanitta americana

5/31/2026East Point Lighthouse1 observed

American Barn Owl (American)

Tyto furcata

5/30/2026Stipson Island Rd.1 observed

Nelson's Sparrow

Ammospiza nelsoni

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

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

5/30/2026121 Lighthouse Ln, Egg Harbor Township US-NJ 39.36399, -74.643091 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Chuck-will's-widow

35/22/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

25/22/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Cape May National Wildlife Refuge - Cedar Swamp Creek for birding?
The best months to visit Cape May National Wildlife Refuge - Cedar Swamp Creek for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cape May National Wildlife Refuge - Cedar Swamp Creek?
Notable species at Cape May National Wildlife Refuge - Cedar Swamp Creek include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland, river/riparian habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cape May National Wildlife Refuge - Cedar Swamp Creek?
Birding at Cape May National Wildlife Refuge - Cedar Swamp Creek is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cape May National Wildlife Refuge - Cedar Swamp Creek?
Cape May National Wildlife Refuge - Cedar Swamp Creek offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.