Coastal birding habitat

Sandy Hook - Plum Island

New Jersey · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Sandy Hook - Plum Island is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 229 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, American Black Duck, and Ring-necked 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

4/18/2026Prospect Park1 observed

Black-capped Chickadee

Poecile atricapillus

4/18/2026Manalapn NJ1 observed

Purple Martin

Progne subis

4/18/2026Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge1 observed

Iceland Gull

Larus glaucoides

4/18/2026Sandy Hook--C Lot & Beach1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

American Oystercatcher

34/18/2026

American Herring Gull

34/18/2026

Northern Mockingbird

14/18/2026

Song Sparrow

24/18/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

54/18/2026

Boat-tailed Grackle

54/18/2026

Brant

74/18/2026

Bufflehead

24/18/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

14/18/2026

Great Egret

14/18/2026

American Goldfinch

14/18/2026

Chipping Sparrow

24/18/2026

Seaside Sparrow

34/18/2026

Eastern Towhee

34/18/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

14/18/2026

Laughing Gull

34/18/2026

Great Black-backed Gull

24/18/2026

American Robin

34/18/2026

Canada Goose

34/17/2026

American Black Duck

24/17/2026

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 Sandy Hook - Plum Island for birding?
The best months to visit Sandy Hook - Plum Island for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Sandy Hook - Plum Island?
Notable species at Sandy Hook - Plum Island include Canada Goose, American Black Duck, Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Red-breasted Merganser. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Sandy Hook - Plum Island?
Birding at Sandy Hook - Plum Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Sandy Hook - Plum Island?
Sandy Hook - Plum Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.