Coastal birding habitat

National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South

Newfoundland and Labrador · Canada

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

May-October

About This Location

National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South is a productive birding destination in Newfoundland and Labrador, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Northern Saw-whet Owl, Common Eider, and Long-tailed Duck among many others. Boreal and temperate forests host breeding warblers, sparrows, and waterfowl during the productive summer months.

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

Horned Grebe

Podiceps auritus

4/15/2026NL--Biscay Bay6 observed

Ruff

Calidris pugnax

4/15/2026NL--Portugal Cove South1 observed

Green-winged Teal (Eurasian)

Anas crecca

4/15/2026NL--Portugal Cove South1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

134/19/2026

Northern Pintail

34/19/2026

Common Eider

54/19/2026

White-winged Scoter

24/19/2026

Long-tailed Duck

14/19/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

54/19/2026

Ring-billed Gull

4/19/2026

American Herring Gull

4/19/2026

Lesser Black-backed Gull

24/19/2026

Red-throated Loon

44/19/2026

Common Loon

14/19/2026

European Starling

64/19/2026

American Robin

24/19/2026

House Sparrow

14/19/2026

Great Black-backed Gull

14/18/2026

Green-winged Teal

24/18/2026

Black Scoter

14/16/2026

Bald Eagle

14/16/2026

Purple Finch

14/16/2026

Common Grackle

24/16/2026

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

    Peak breeding season runs from late May through June for most songbirds.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South for birding?
The best months to visit National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South for birding are May-October. The best seasons are Spring and Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South?
Notable species at National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South include Northern Saw-whet Owl, Common Eider, Long-tailed Duck, Red-breasted Merganser, Black Guillemot. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South?
Birding at National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South?
National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.