Forest birding habitat

Scotia Barrens - general

Pennsylvania · Northeast

Habitat
ForestWetland
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Scotia Barrens - general is a productive birding destination in Pennsylvania, with 217 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts American Woodcock, Hairy Woodpecker, and Black-capped Chickadee 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

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

4/16/2026Dreibelbis Birding Area (formerly Julian Wetlands)1 observed

Northern Yellow Warbler

Setophaga aestiva

4/16/2026Dreibelbis Birding Area (formerly Julian Wetlands)3 observed

King Rail

Rallus elegans

4/16/20263706 Scare Pond Road, Petersburg, Pennsylvania, US (40.664, -77.911)1 observed

Black-and-white Warbler

Mniotilta varia

4/16/20262168 Laurel Run Road, State College, Pennsylvania, US (40.736, -77.795)2 observed

Black-throated Green Warbler

Setophaga virens

4/16/2026Rothrock SF--Jo Hays Vista1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

14/12/2026

Wild Turkey

34/12/2026

Ruffed Grouse

14/12/2026

Mourning Dove

44/12/2026

Killdeer

54/12/2026

American Woodcock

14/12/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

14/12/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

14/12/2026

White-breasted Nuthatch

24/12/2026

American Goldfinch

124/12/2026

American Tree Sparrow

14/12/2026

Song Sparrow

84/12/2026

Swamp Sparrow

24/12/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

24/12/2026

Brown-headed Cowbird

204/12/2026

Common Grackle

64/12/2026

Turkey Vulture

24/11/2026

American Robin

24/11/2026

Chipping Sparrow

14/11/2026

Eastern Towhee

64/11/2026

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 Scotia Barrens - general for birding?
The best months to visit Scotia Barrens - general for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Scotia Barrens - general?
Notable species at Scotia Barrens - general include American Woodcock, Hairy Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, Cedar Waxwing, White-throated Sparrow. The area supports forest, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Scotia Barrens - general?
Birding at Scotia Barrens - general is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Scotia Barrens - general?
Scotia Barrens - general offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.