Coastal birding habitat

Nehalem Bay State Park

Oregon · West

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

March-May, September-November

About This Location

Nehalem Bay State Park is a productive birding destination in Oregon, with 260 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts American Wigeon, Mallard, and Surf Scoter 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

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus

7/17/2026Bayocean Spit--bay (east) side1 observed

Western Flycatcher (Pacific-slope)

Empidonax difficilis

7/16/2026Oswald West SP1 observed

Red Crossbill (Douglas-fir or type 4)

Loxia curvirostra

7/14/2026Cannon Beach Settling Ponds1 observed

Tufted Duck

Aythya fuligula

7/13/2026Nehalem Sewage Ponds1 observed

Red Crossbill (Sitka Spruce or type 10)

Loxia curvirostra

7/11/2026Tillamook rental6 observed

Horned Puffin

Fratercula corniculata

7/10/2026Hug Point State Park1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Eurasian Collared-Dove

17/16/2026

Semipalmated Plover

17/16/2026

Snowy Plover

47/16/2026

California Gull

97/16/2026

Pelagic Cormorant

17/16/2026

Turkey Vulture

17/16/2026

American Crow

17/16/2026

American Robin

17/16/2026

American Goldfinch

17/16/2026

Dark-eyed Junco

27/16/2026

White-crowned Sparrow

17/16/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

17/12/2026

Chestnut-backed Chickadee

17/12/2026

Western Gull

17/11/2026

Tree Swallow

17/11/2026

Great Blue Heron

37/10/2026

Bald Eagle

17/10/2026

Barn Swallow

47/10/2026

Swainson's Thrush

17/10/2026

Canada Goose

47/8/2026

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Nehalem Bay State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Nehalem Bay State Park for birding are March-May, September-November. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Nehalem Bay State Park?
Notable species at Nehalem Bay State Park include American Wigeon, Mallard, Surf Scoter, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Nehalem Bay State Park?
Birding at Nehalem Bay State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
What amenities are available at Nehalem Bay State Park?
Nehalem Bay State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.