Top Spots for Birding Along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway

For wildlife lovers, birding along Massachusetts’ Essex Coastal Scenic Byway offers a unique and satisfying experience. This scenic route features several wonderful spots where you may participate in birding and take in the splendor of the area’s abundant and diverse bird life. Here are five places along the Scenic Byway that are a “must-see” and offer exciting encounters with feathered friends.

Halibut Point State Park

Located on Cape Ann, Halibut Point State Park is a gem for birdwatchers. This scenic park offers stunning ocean views and granite cliffs, creating a perfect habitat for coastal birds. Look out for seabirds such as gulls, terns, and cormorants. In addition to the coastal birds, you may also spot woodland and migratory species along the trails. Read more about the park and its opportunities here, they host monthly birding programs for birders of all skill levels and ages!

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Situated on Plum Island, the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and the neighboring Sandy Point State Reservation provide a haven for birds. It was established in 1942 primarily to provide feeding, nesting, and resting habitat for migratory birds. The refuge boasts diverse habitats like salt marshes, dunes, and beachfronts. 

With 4,662 acres of diverse upland and wetland habitats, this environment is home to at least 300 species of birds and other wildlife. Keep an eye out for majestic birds of prey like ospreys and bald eagles, as well as a variety of shorebirds and waterfowl. Find everything you need to know about Parker River on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website.

Joppa Flats

An entry point for Joppa Flats is the lovely town of Newburyport, which is located just north of Parker River. This Audubon refuge is a great place to see birds, especially when they are migrating. Numerous shorebirds are drawn to the mudflats and salt marshes, while other species can be seen in the nearby woodlands. Look for warblers in the treetops and sandpipers and plovers by the shore. 

Learn about all the opportunities for upcoming Joppa Flats birding programs and events on the Mass Audubon website. 

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary

The Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary in Topsfield, which is further inland, provides a different kind of birding experience. This lovely refuge has a variety of ecosystems, such as ponds, meadows, and woodlands. Discover the large route network to find owls, woodpeckers, and other woodland birds. Watch out for herons, egrets, and waterfowl in the wetland areas, and keep track of what you see!

Eastern Point Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in Gloucester, Eastern Point Wildlife Sanctuary is a delightful spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. This coastal sanctuary features a mix of rocky shorelines, grassy fields, and wooded areas. Scan the ocean for seabirds like puffins and razorbills, especially during winter. The sanctuary’s trails offer opportunities to observe migratory birds, as well as resident species such as warblers and sparrows. Visit this stunning landscape with a friend or two and see what you can find!

Rough Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary

Rough Meadows Wildlife Sanctuary in Rowley connects over 8,000 acres in a mosaic of protected land and wildlife habitat within the Great Marsh Ecosystem. This sanctuary supports an astonishing diversity of plants and animals, including rare and endangered species. It also serves as a critical migratory bird habitat and an important breeding ground for many species of birds, fish, and crustaceans. This is also a great spot for canoeing and kayaking, learn more about what you can do here on the Greenbelt website.

If you enjoyed these birding spots, you are going to love our other blog post on the best scenic walking trails along the Byway. Many of these beautiful nature walks are also great for birding!