Forest birding habitat

Big Spring

Pennsylvania · Northeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Big Spring is a productive birding destination in Pennsylvania, with 211 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Canada Goose, Wood Duck, and Mallard 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

American Wigeon

Mareca americana

7/21/2026Lake Lea (roadside access only)1 observed

Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Pheucticus ludovicianus

7/19/2026Tuscarora SF--Gunter Valley1 observed

Eastern Whip-poor-will

Antrostomus vociferus

7/17/2026Piney Mountain Ridge Rd, Biglerville US-PA (40.0081,-77.3128)1 observed

Mute Swan

Cygnus olor

7/15/2026Children's Lake1 observed

Ross's Goose

Anser rossii

7/15/2026Children's Lake1 observed

Black-capped Chickadee

Poecile atricapillus

7/15/2026Pine Grove Furnace SP1 observed

Chuck-will's-widow

Antrostomus carolinensis

7/13/2026Michaux SF--Piney Mtn./Bendersville Rd. Area1 observed

Merlin

Falco columbarius

7/13/2026Mom & Dad's House1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

97/21/2026

Wood Duck

47/21/2026

Mallard

197/21/2026

Mourning Dove

17/21/2026

Great Blue Heron

17/21/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

37/21/2026

Willow Flycatcher

47/21/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

17/21/2026

Fish Crow

17/21/2026

Tree Swallow

147/21/2026

Purple Martin

37/21/2026

Barn Swallow

87/21/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

17/21/2026

Northern House Wren

17/21/2026

Carolina Wren

27/21/2026

European Starling

27/21/2026

Gray Catbird

87/21/2026

Northern Mockingbird

17/21/2026

American Robin

37/21/2026

American Goldfinch

47/21/2026

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

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Big Spring for birding?
The best months to visit Big Spring for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Big Spring?
Notable species at Big Spring include Canada Goose, Wood Duck, Mallard, Greater Scaup, Mourning Dove. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Big Spring?
Birding at Big Spring is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Big Spring?
Big Spring offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.