Lake birding habitat

Cape Meares Lake

Oregon · West

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

March-May, September-November

About This Location

Cape Meares Lake is a productive birding destination in Oregon, with 207 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, and Lesser Scaup among many others. The diverse terrain supports both resident specialties and Pacific Flyway migrants throughout the year.

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

Tufted Duck

Aythya fuligula

5/31/2026Nehalem River--dike trail1 observed

Yellow-breasted Chat

Icteria virens

5/30/2026Batterson1 observed

Snow Goose

Anser caerulescens

5/30/2026Nehalem Sewage Ponds1 observed

Cackling Goose (Aleutian)

Branta hutchinsii

5/30/2026Nehalem Sewage Ponds37 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

85/27/2026

Eurasian Collared-Dove

25/27/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

65/27/2026

Steller's Jay

25/27/2026

Tree Swallow

105/27/2026

Violet-green Swallow

15/27/2026

Northern Rough-winged Swallow

15/27/2026

Barn Swallow

85/27/2026

Cliff Swallow

15/27/2026

European Starling

35/27/2026

American Robin

25/27/2026

Purple Finch

15/27/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

15/27/2026

Song Sparrow

15/27/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

105/27/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

25/27/2026

Common Yellowthroat

25/27/2026

Rufous Hummingbird

15/26/2026

Western Gull

15/26/2026

Great Blue Heron

15/26/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

    Early mornings provide the best light and bird activity along the coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Cape Meares Lake for birding?
The best months to visit Cape Meares Lake for birding are March-May, September-November. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cape Meares Lake?
Notable species at Cape Meares Lake include Mallard, Ring-necked Duck, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Anna's Hummingbird. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cape Meares Lake?
Birding at Cape Meares Lake is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Cape Meares Lake?
Cape Meares Lake offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.