The Birding Hub
The Birding Hub

Monhegan Island

Maine · Northeast

ChallengingOfficial Site View on eBird
Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Ferry ticket required

Hours

Open year-round (ferry schedule varies)

About This Location

Monhegan Island is a productive birding destination in Maine, with 322 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

Location

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Notable Species

SanderlingBrown PelicanOspreyRoyal TernWilletCanada GooseAmerican Black DuckCommon EiderSurf ScoterCommon GoldeneyeMourning DoveAmerican Herring Gull

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Hermit Thrush

Catharus guttatus

3/3/2026Clark Island1 observed

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

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

  5. 5

    Bring quality optics — a good pair of binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) makes all the difference in species identification.

Amenities

Parking
Trails

Nearby Attractions

  • Monhegan Island Lighthouse
  • Cathedral Woods
  • Lobster Cove

More in Maine

Acadia National Park

Coastal Maine park with boreal breeding birds and pelagic species.

Acadia National Park

Forest birding hotspot in Maine with 240 recorded species.

Acadia National Park - Otter Point

Forest birding hotspot in Maine with 208 recorded species.

Birding Guides

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Bird Migration: Hawks, Sparrows, and Confusing Plumages

10 min read

Understanding Bird Migration: When, Where, and Why Birds Migrate

12 min read

Spring Birding in New York City: The Complete Urban Migration Guide

12 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Monhegan Island for birding?▼
The best months to visit Monhegan Island for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Monhegan Island?▼
Notable species at Monhegan Island include Sanderling, Brown Pelican, Osprey, Royal Tern, Willet, Canada Goose, American Black Duck, Common Eider, Surf Scoter, Common Goldeneye, Mourning Dove, American Herring Gull. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Monhegan Island?▼
Birding at Monhegan Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
Is there an entrance fee at Monhegan Island?▼
The entrance fee at Monhegan Island is Ferry ticket required. Hours: Open year-round (ferry schedule varies).
What amenities are available at Monhegan Island?▼
Monhegan Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.