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-faced Ibis

Plegadis chihi

7/15/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR--Wildlife Drive (8-mile auto tour loop only)1 observed

Pied-billed Grebe

Podilymbus podiceps

7/15/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR--Wildlife Drive (8-mile auto tour loop only)1 observed

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

7/15/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR (formerly Brig)1 observed

Ruff

Calidris pugnax

7/14/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR--Southwest Pool1 observed

Long-billed Dowitcher

Limnodromus scolopaceus

7/14/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR--Wildlife Drive (8-mile auto tour loop only)3 observed

Red-necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

7/14/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR--Wildlife Drive (8-mile auto tour loop only)1 observed

Black-necked Stilt (Black-necked)

Himantopus mexicanus

7/14/2026Edwin B. Forsythe NWR (formerly Brig)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

American Black Duck

47/10/2026

Least Sandpiper

17/10/2026

Black Skimmer

17/10/2026

White Ibis

17/10/2026

Glossy Ibis

57/10/2026

Black-crowned Night Heron

17/10/2026

Snowy Egret

27/10/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/10/2026

House Finch

27/10/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

27/10/2026

Canada Goose

47/10/2026

Mourning Dove

27/10/2026

Semipalmated Plover

17/10/2026

Little Blue Heron

17/10/2026

House Sparrow

67/10/2026

Song Sparrow

17/10/2026

Lesser Yellowlegs

17/10/2026

Laughing Gull

27/10/2026

Least Tern

17/10/2026

Forster's Tern

67/10/2026

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.