Sandy Hook
New Jersey · Northeast
Moderate
April-May, September-October
Free (parking fee in summer)
Open daily, sunrise to sunset
About This Location
Sandy Hook is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 369 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Brant, Canada Goose, and American Black Duck 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
Prothonotary Warbler
Protonotaria citrea
Black-capped Chickadee
Poecile atricapillus
Purple Martin
Progne subis
Wild Turkey
Meleagris gallopavo
Iceland Gull
Larus glaucoides
Recent Observations
Species reported at this location in the last 14 days
Brant
Canada Goose
American Black Duck
Bufflehead
Red-breasted Merganser
Mourning Dove
American Oystercatcher
Willet
Laughing Gull
American Herring Gull
Great Black-backed Gull
Forster's Tern
Double-crested Cormorant
Great Egret
Turkey Vulture
Cooper's Hawk
Northern Flicker
Blue Jay
Common Raven
Tree Swallow
Birding Tips
- 1
Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.
- 2
Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.
- 3
Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.
- 4
Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.
- 5
Waterproof boots are recommended as trails near marshes can be muddy, especially after rain.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
- Sandy Hook Lighthouse
- Fort Hancock
- Gateway National Recreation Area
More in New Jersey
New Jersey Birding Guide
Complete guide to birding in New Jersey →