Indian River Inlet
Delaware · Northeast
Moderate
April-May, September-October
Free (state park parking fee may apply in season)
Open daily
About This Location
Indian River Inlet is a productive birding destination in Delaware, with 254 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and river/riparian habitat attracts Brant, Common Eider, and White-winged Scoter 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
Harlequin Duck
Histrionicus histrionicus
Willet
Tringa semipalmata
American Tree Sparrow
Spizelloides arborea
Recent Observations
Species reported at this location in the last 14 days
Brant
Common Eider
White-winged Scoter
Black Scoter
Long-tailed Duck
Bufflehead
Rock Pigeon
American Herring Gull
Horned Grebe
Red-throated Loon
Common Loon
Great Cormorant
Blue Jay
Fish Crow
European Starling
Song Sparrow
Brown-headed Cowbird
Common Grackle
Boat-tailed Grackle
Great Black-backed Gull
Birding Tips
- 1
Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.
- 2
Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.
- 3
Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.
- 4
Onshore winds can push pelagic species closer to shore, making post-storm days excellent for rarities.
- 5
Bring quality optics — a good pair of binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) makes all the difference in species identification.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
- Delaware Seashore State Park
- Rehoboth Beach
- Bombay Hook NWR
More in Delaware
Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge
Delaware Bay salt marsh refuge with spectacular shorebird and waterfowl migrations.
Ashland Nature Center and Hawk Watch
Forest birding hotspot in Delaware with 229 recorded species.
Assawoman Wildlife Area
Wetland birding hotspot in Delaware with 260 recorded species.