Coastal birding habitat

Captree Island

New York · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Captree Island is a productive birding destination in New York, with 208 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Great Black-backed Gull, Brant, and Canada Goose 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

Tricolored Heron

Egretta tricolor

7/19/2026Captree SP1 observed

Brown Pelican

Pelecanus occidentalis

7/18/2026Fire Island--Watch Hill2 observed

Western Sandpiper

Calidris mauri

7/18/2026Jones Beach SP--West End1 observed

Ruff

Calidris pugnax

7/17/2026Jones Beach SP--West End1 observed

American Coot

Fulica americana

7/17/2026Patchogue Lake1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Glossy Ibis

17/20/2026

Great Egret

77/20/2026

Willow Flycatcher

17/20/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

17/20/2026

Willet

7/19/2026

Laughing Gull

7/19/2026

Little Blue Heron

27/19/2026

Osprey

27/19/2026

European Starling

7/19/2026

Common Grackle

7/19/2026

Rock Pigeon

57/19/2026

American Oystercatcher

47/19/2026

Killdeer

17/19/2026

Greater Yellowlegs

27/19/2026

Least Sandpiper

87/19/2026

Common Tern

7/19/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

17/19/2026

Tricolored Heron

17/19/2026

Snowy Egret

27/19/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

17/19/2026

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 Captree Island for birding?
The best months to visit Captree Island for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Captree Island?
Notable species at Captree Island include Great Black-backed Gull, Brant, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, American Black Duck. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Captree Island?
Birding at Captree Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Captree Island?
Captree Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.