Great Swamp Management Area

Rhode Island · Northeast

ModerateView on eBird

Habitat

Wetland

Best Seasons

SpringFall

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Great Swamp Management Area is a productive birding destination in Rhode Island, with 227 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts Bald Eagle, Barred Owl, and Hermit Thrush among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

Location

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Notable Species

Bald Eagle Barred Owl Hermit Thrush

Live Bird Data

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Rough-legged Hawk

Buteo lagopus

3/5/202638 Marine Ave, Jamestown US-RI 41.49396, -71.383131 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (abieticola)

Buteo jamaicensis

3/5/2026273 Boom Bridge Rd, North Stonington US-CT 41.42504, -71.815651 observed

Black-headed Gull

Chroicocephalus ridibundus

3/4/2026The Narrows, Narragansett4 observed

Tufted Duck

Aythya fuligula

3/2/2026Trustom Pond NWR--Moonstone Beach1 observed

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

3/2/2026Anthony Rd.1 observed

Thick-billed Murre

Uria lomvia

3/1/2026Black Point Fishing Area1 observed

Dovekie

Alle alle

2/28/2026Camp Cronin Fishing Area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Bald Eagle

13/4/2026

Birding Tips

1
Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.
2
Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.
3
Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Amenities

Parking

Trails

More in Rhode Island

Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge

Rhode Island's coastal refuge with wintering Harlequin Ducks and diverse seabirds.

Beavertail State Park

Forest birding hotspot in Rhode Island with 261 recorded species.

Block Island

Coastal birding hotspot in Rhode Island with 314 recorded species.

Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

Where to See Bald Eagles in North America: A Seasonal Viewing Guide

11 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Great Swamp Management Area for birding?▼

The best months to visit Great Swamp Management Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.

What birds can I see at Great Swamp Management Area?▼

Notable species at Great Swamp Management Area include Bald Eagle, Barred Owl, Hermit Thrush. The area supports wetland habitats.

How difficult is birding at Great Swamp Management Area?▼

Birding at Great Swamp Management Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.

What amenities are available at Great Swamp Management Area?▼

Great Swamp Management Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.