Best Birding Areas in North America

We need your help! The Wild Dirt is compiling a collection of resources for birders and outdoors-people alike! Coming soon...our Wild Dirt Pack will have access to sharing their experiences. First for National Parks & Events then pack lists!

What are your most successful bird-watching territories?

Appalachian Mountains Hummingbirds

Adventure Log

I shot this video on a drive to my best friend’s wedding. My wife Sarah and I had just left our first International Dark Sky Park overnight at Cherry Springs State Park in Pennsylvania. While navigating through the Appalachian Mountains, we found a little cafe-grocery store just by chance. I had to go to the bathroom quickly and it turned out to be one of the best stops on our New England Drive-By Tour.

We sat down to eat an amazing egg and cheese sandwich then the Hummingbirds came. At least fifty! Twenty at a time were congregating around these feeders. The rest were hiding out in a group of pine trees to the side of the building. Just brilliant.

Quick Camera Tips by Dennis

Frame the shot based on the Adventure or theme. During this road trip, I fell in love with my Subaru Outback. I had to include it in the shot because without it I would have never reached this chance destination.

Introduction

• Brief overview of birding and its popularity in North America.

• Importance of exploring diverse habitats for birdwatching.

  
  

1. The Florida Everglades

• Unique ecosystem teeming with bird species.

• Key species to spot include the and Great Egret.

• Tips for visiting and the best seasons for birding.

2. Point Reyes National Seashore, California

• Coastal habitat that attracts migratory birds.

• Notable birds include Peregrine Falcon and Western Bluebird.

• Recommended trails and viewing spots within the park.

  
  

3. Cape May, New Jersey

• Renowned for its autumn bird migration.

• Highlights include the Monarch migration and diverse shorebird species.

• Local festivals and guided birdwatching tours.

  
  

4. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

• Diverse landscapes provide habitat for various bird species.

• Key birds include the American Bald Eagle and the Trumpeter Swan.

• Best times to visit and essential birding areas in the park.

  
  

5. Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico

• Famous for wintering populations of Sandhill Cranes.

• Viewing opportunities during migration seasons.

• Importance of the refuge for conservation efforts.

  
  

6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

• Rich biodiversity supports numerous bird species.

• Notable species: Cerulean Warbler and Tennessee Warbler.

• Best birding trails and viewing tips for visitors.

  
  

7. Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula

• Home to unique avian species due to its remote location.

• Key species include the Steller's Jay and Bald Eagle.

• Considerations for planning a birding trip in Alaska.

  
  

8. Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, New York

• Essential stopover for migrating birds in the Northeast.

• Noteworthy species observed: Snowy Egret and Common Gallinule.

• Recommendations for the best observation points.

  
  

9. Big Bend National Park, Texas

• Unique desert and river habitats attracting diverse birdlife.

• Possible sightings of the Colima Warbler and Golden-cheeked Warbler.

• Travel tips for navigating the park while birdwatching.

  
  

10. Olympic National Park, Washington

• Varied ecosystems supporting many bird species.

• Notable birds include the Marbled Murrelet and Bald Eagle.

• Highlights of birdwatching along the famous Hurricane Ridge.

  
  

Conclusion

• Recap of the diversity and beauty of birding locations in North America.

• Encouragement to explore and appreciate different habitats while birdwatching.

• Final thoughts on the importance of conservation efforts in these regions.