Black River Wildlife Management Area

New Jersey · Northeast

Habitat
River/RiparianWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Black River Wildlife Management Area is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 208 species recorded on eBird. This river/riparian and wetland habitat attracts Barred Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, and Red-bellied Woodpecker 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

Iceland Gull (kumlieni)

Larus glaucoides

3/6/2026North Branch Park1 observed

Red-throated Loon

Gavia stellata

3/6/2026Round Valley Recreation Area1 observed

Cackling Goose

Branta hutchinsii

3/4/2026Lake Solitude1 observed

Lesser Black-backed Gull

Larus fuscus

3/3/2026Lake Parsippany1 observed

Red-breasted Merganser

Mergus serrator

2/28/2026Finderne Wetlands1 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (abieticola)

Buteo jamaicensis

2/28/2026Homestead Rd1 observed

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

2/26/202689–99 Homestead Rd, Califon US-NJ 40.68956, -74.750692 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Walk along the water slowly, scanning overhanging branches for kingfishers and warblers.

  2. 2

    Check sandbars and gravel bars for shorebirds and terns.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Black River Wildlife Management Area for birding?
The best months to visit Black River Wildlife Management Area for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Black River Wildlife Management Area?
Notable species at Black River Wildlife Management Area include Barred Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker. The area supports river/riparian, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Black River Wildlife Management Area?
Birding at Black River Wildlife Management Area is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Black River Wildlife Management Area?
Black River Wildlife Management Area offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.