The Birding Hub
The Birding Hub

Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge (island vicinity ONLY)

Maine · Northeast

ChallengingView on eBird
Habitat
CoastalWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge (island vicinity ONLY) is a productive birding destination in Maine, with 263 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and wetland habitat attracts American Black Duck, Common Eider, and Harlequin Duck among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

Location

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Notable Species

American Black DuckCommon EiderHarlequin DuckBlack ScoterLong-tailed Duck

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Northern Shoveler

Spatula clypeata

3/1/2026Moose 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.

Amenities

Parking
Restrooms
Trails
Auto Tour Route

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 Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge (island vicinity ONLY) for birding?▼
The best months to visit Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge (island vicinity ONLY) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge (island vicinity ONLY)?▼
Notable species at Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge (island vicinity ONLY) include American Black Duck, Common Eider, Harlequin Duck, Black Scoter, Long-tailed Duck. The area supports coastal, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge (island vicinity ONLY)?▼
Birding at Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge (island vicinity ONLY) is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge (island vicinity ONLY)?▼
Seal Island National Wildlife Refuge (island vicinity ONLY) offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.