As winter sets in, birdwatching season peaks across the United States, drawing thousands of tourists to national parks, wetlands, and urban green spaces. From dense forests to coastal flyways, these locations become temporary homes to hundreds of migratory bird species, making them some of the most popular destinations for bird lovers each year.
Every winter, birdwatchers travel to places such as Acadia National Park in Maine, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in New Mexico, Cape May in New Jersey, Cave Creek Canyon in Arizona, Central Park in New York, Everglades National Park in Florida, and Magee Marsh Wildlife Area in Ohio, among many others.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Spread across nearly 50,000 acres, Acadia National Park is home to more than 300 species of birds. Birds can be spotted here throughout the year, not just during winter. Surrounded by numerous islands and rich greenery, the park provides an ideal nesting ground for migratory birds. During spring and summer, more than 20 species of warblers arrive in the foothills.
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico
Located along the Rio Grande River between the Chupadera and San Pasqual mountains, Bosque del Apache spans nearly 60,000 acres. It primarily serves as a winter sanctuary for migratory waterfowl arriving from distant regions. Every November, thousands of birds, including sandhill cranes and various species of ducks, arrive at this dense forest refuge.
Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May is regarded as one of the world’s best birdwatching destinations. Situated along the Atlantic Flyway, the area is home to nearly 400 bird species. During September and October, vireos, tanagers, grosbeaks, orioles, and other birds can be spotted. Birds of prey such as falcons, hawks, and eagles are also commonly seen here.
Cave Creek Canyon, Arizona
Located on the eastern side of the Chiricahua Mountains at an elevation of 5,000 feet, Cave Creek Canyon is known for its remarkable avian diversity. Around 370 species of birds have been recorded here. The canyon is especially famous for hummingbirds, with 12 different species of the world’s smallest birds found in the area.
Central Park, New York
Spanning 843 acres, Central Park is considered a paradise for bird lovers. Every year, thousands of birds migrate to this urban green space, with about 280 species recorded so far. More birds are seen here during autumn than in winter. The availability of food attracts birds to the park, where visitors can also spot colourful butterflies.
Everglades National Park, Florida
Located in southern Florida, Everglades National Park is one of the largest subtropical regions in the United States, covering nearly 1.5 million acres. Around 360 species of birds can be found here, including yellow warblers, purple martins, and blue indigo buntings.
Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, Ohio
Magee Marsh is a vast wetland spread across approximately 2,200 acres. More birds are seen here during autumn and spring than in winter. A total of 310 bird species have been recorded, drawing birdwatchers and tourists from various parts of the world.
