CBBT - South Thimble Island (#1)

Virginia · Southeast

ChallengingView on eBird
Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

CBBT - South Thimble Island (#1) is a productive birding destination in Virginia, with 216 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Red-breasted Merganser, Northern Gannet, and Double-crested Cormorant among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

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

Piping Plover

Charadrius melodus

3/5/2026Fisherman Island NWR (restricted access)3 observed

Common Goldeneye

Bucephala clangula

3/5/2026Lake Thrasher1 observed

Cackling Goose (Richardson's)

Branta hutchinsii

3/4/2026Lake Thrasher1 observed

Lark Sparrow

Chondestes grammacus

3/1/2026@Naturegirl1 observed

Cackling Goose

Branta hutchinsii

3/1/2026Eastern Shore of Virginia NWR--Ramp Road1 observed

White-crowned Sparrow (Dark-lored)

Zonotrichia leucophrys

3/1/2026Harris Teeter Retention Pond5 observed

Short-eared Owl

Asio flammeus

2/28/2026Messick Point2 observed

Painted Bunting

Passerina ciris

2/28/2026Home1 observed

Western Kingbird

Tyrannus verticalis

2/28/20262229 Paris St, Virginia Beach US-VA 36.83118, -76.047051 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

2/28/2026CBBT--North Chesapeake Island (#4)1 observed

Iceland Gull (Thayer's)

Larus glaucoides

2/27/2026Rudee Inlet1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Red-breasted Merganser

13/1/2026

Northern Gannet

1503/1/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

323/1/2026

Brown Pelican

113/1/2026

Osprey

12/27/2026

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

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit CBBT - South Thimble Island (#1) for birding?
The best months to visit CBBT - South Thimble Island (#1) for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at CBBT - South Thimble Island (#1)?
Notable species at CBBT - South Thimble Island (#1) include Red-breasted Merganser, Northern Gannet, Double-crested Cormorant, Brown Pelican, Osprey. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at CBBT - South Thimble Island (#1)?
Birding at CBBT - South Thimble Island (#1) is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at CBBT - South Thimble Island (#1)?
CBBT - South Thimble Island (#1) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.