Sherwood Island State Park

Connecticut · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Parking $15-$22 in season (free off-season)

Hours

Open daily, 8:00 AM - sunset

About This Location

Sherwood Island State Park is a productive birding destination in Connecticut, with 314 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Canada Goose, Gadwall, and American Black Duck among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

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

American Oystercatcher

Haematopus palliatus

3/4/2026Silver Sands SP1 observed

Iceland Gull

Larus glaucoides

3/4/2026Old Field Point and Lighthouse1 observed

Red-headed Woodpecker

Melanerpes erythrocephalus

3/4/2026Oak Lawn Cemetery1 observed

Purple Finch

Haemorhous purpureus

3/2/2026Backyard1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

503/4/2026

Gadwall

33/4/2026

American Black Duck

113/4/2026

White-winged Scoter

83/4/2026

Hooded Merganser

13/4/2026

Rock Pigeon

123/4/2026

Mourning Dove

13/4/2026

American Herring Gull

123/4/2026

Common Loon

13/4/2026

Blue Jay

13/4/2026

American Crow

13/4/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

13/4/2026

European Starling

103/4/2026

American Robin

13/4/2026

House Sparrow

43/4/2026

Bufflehead

63/4/2026

Common Goldeneye

73/4/2026

American Woodcock

13/4/2026

Bald Eagle

13/4/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

13/4/2026

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

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

  4. 4

    Consider purchasing an annual parks pass if you plan to visit multiple times.

  5. 5

    Onshore winds can push pelagic species closer to shore, making post-storm days excellent for rarities.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Sherwood Island State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Sherwood Island State Park for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Sherwood Island State Park?
Notable species at Sherwood Island State Park include Canada Goose, Gadwall, American Black Duck, White-winged Scoter, Hooded Merganser, European Starling, House Sparrow, Red-winged Blackbird, Common Grackle, Mallard, Mute Swan, Greater Scaup. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Sherwood Island State Park?
Birding at Sherwood Island State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
Is there an entrance fee at Sherwood Island State Park?
The entrance fee at Sherwood Island State Park is Parking $15-$22 in season (free off-season). Hours: Open daily, 8:00 AM - sunset.
What amenities are available at Sherwood Island State Park?
Sherwood Island State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.