Forest birding habitat

Airlie Gardens

North Carolina · Southeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Airlie Gardens is a productive birding destination in North Carolina, with 248 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Mallard, Hooded Merganser, and Sanderling among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

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

Cory's Shearwater

Calonectris borealis

7/16/20262911B South Shore Drive, Surf City, North Carolina, US (34.393, -77.592)1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Little Blue Heron

17/21/2026

Great Blue Heron

27/21/2026

Osprey

67/21/2026

Mississippi Kite

17/21/2026

Broad-winged Hawk

17/21/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

27/21/2026

Blue Jay

27/21/2026

Purple Martin

17/21/2026

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

17/21/2026

Northern Cardinal

47/21/2026

Painted Bunting

37/21/2026

Mourning Dove

17/18/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

17/18/2026

Anhinga

27/18/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

47/18/2026

White Ibis

37/18/2026

Snowy Egret

17/18/2026

Great Egret

17/18/2026

Belted Kingfisher

17/18/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

17/18/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.

  2. 2

    Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.

  3. 3

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Airlie Gardens for birding?
The best months to visit Airlie Gardens for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Airlie Gardens?
Notable species at Airlie Gardens include Mallard, Hooded Merganser, Sanderling, Laughing Gull, Double-crested Cormorant. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Airlie Gardens?
Birding at Airlie Gardens is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Airlie Gardens?
Airlie Gardens offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails.