Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)

New Jersey · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free (beach fees in summer)

Hours

Open daily, dawn to dusk

About This Location

Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 379 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Mourning Dove, American Robin, and House Finch 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

Sandhill Crane

Antigone canadensis

3/6/2026Cape Island--The Beanery/Rea Farm (restricted access)16 observed

Osprey

Pandion haliaetus

3/4/2026Stone Harbor Blvd.1 observed

White Ibis

Eudocimus albus

3/4/2026Ocean Drive--Two Mile Landing17 observed

King Rail

Rallus elegans

3/3/2026Prime Hook NWR--Fowler Beach Rd./Fowler Beach1 observed

Willet

Tringa semipalmata

3/3/202614187–14199 Oyster Rocks Rd, Milton US-DE 38.78743, -75.213697 observed

Rough-legged Hawk

Buteo lagopus

3/2/2026Prome Hook Beach Rd1 observed

American Tree Sparrow

Spizelloides arborea

3/1/2026Prime Hook NWR--Headquarters area1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mourning Dove

23/4/2026

American Robin

13/4/2026

House Finch

13/4/2026

White-throated Sparrow

13/4/2026

Mute Swan

23/1/2026

American Herring Gull

53/1/2026

Great Cormorant

23/1/2026

Turkey Vulture

23/1/2026

Carolina Chickadee

33/1/2026

Carolina Wren

43/1/2026

Northern Mockingbird

33/1/2026

House Sparrow

63/1/2026

Northern Cardinal

43/1/2026

Northern Shoveler

52/28/2026

Gadwall

52/28/2026

American Wigeon

102/28/2026

Mallard

42/28/2026

American Black Duck

22/28/2026

Redhead

22/28/2026

Ring-necked Duck

42/28/2026

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

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

  5. 5

    Check access conditions and any ferry schedules before planning your trip to ensure the site is reachable.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) for birding?
The best months to visit Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
Notable species at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) include Mourning Dove, American Robin, House Finch, White-throated Sparrow, Mute Swan, Turkey Vulture, Northern Harrier, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
Birding at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
Is there an entrance fee at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
The entrance fee at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) is Free (beach fees in summer). Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk.
What amenities are available at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.