Coastal birding habitat

Ocean City Preserve

New Jersey · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Ocean City Preserve is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 214 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, and Mallard 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

White-throated Sparrow

Zonotrichia albicollis

6/2/2026121 Lighthouse Ln, Egg Harbor Township US-NJ 39.36399, -74.643091 observed

Black-necked Stilt (Black-necked)

Himantopus mexicanus

6/1/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR (formerly Brig)1 observed

Wilson's Phalarope

Phalaropus tricolor

6/1/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR (formerly Brig)1 observed

White-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

6/1/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR (formerly Brig)1 observed

American Barn Owl

Tyto furcata

5/31/2026Stipson Island Rd.2 observed

Red-necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

5/31/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR--Wildlife Drive (8-mile auto tour loop only)1 observed

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Corthylio calendula

5/31/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR--Visitor Center1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

65/31/2026

Mallard

45/31/2026

Mourning Dove

15/31/2026

Semipalmated Plover

75/31/2026

Fish Crow

55/31/2026

Gray Catbird

25/31/2026

American Robin

15/31/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

145/31/2026

Northern Cardinal

15/31/2026

American Black Duck

95/30/2026

Green-winged Teal

15/30/2026

Willet

25/30/2026

Semipalmated Sandpiper

345/30/2026

Laughing Gull

45/30/2026

American Herring Gull

15/30/2026

Forster's Tern

15/30/2026

Common Tern

15/30/2026

White Ibis

165/30/2026

Glossy Ibis

45/30/2026

Little Blue Heron

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 Ocean City Preserve for birding?
The best months to visit Ocean City Preserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Ocean City Preserve?
Notable species at Ocean City Preserve include Canada Goose, Northern Shoveler, Mallard, American Black Duck, Green-winged Teal. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ocean City Preserve?
Birding at Ocean City Preserve is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Ocean City Preserve?
Ocean City Preserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.