Sandy Hook
New Jersey · Northeast
Moderate
April-May, September-October
Free (parking fee in summer)
Open daily, sunrise to sunset
About This Location
Sandy Hook is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 369 species recorded on eBird. This forest and wetland habitat attracts Brant, Canada Goose, and American Black Duck 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
Black-capped Chickadee
Poecile atricapillus
Greater Scaup
Aythya marila
American Wigeon
Mareca americana
Long-tailed Duck
Clangula hyemalis
Common Merganser
Mergus merganser
Wild Turkey
Meleagris gallopavo
Iceland Gull (kumlieni)
Larus glaucoides
Chipping Sparrow
Spizella passerina
Red-necked Grebe
Podiceps grisegena
White-winged Scoter
Melanitta deglandi
Recent Observations
Species reported at this location in the last 14 days
Brant
Canada Goose
American Black Duck
Black Scoter
Bufflehead
Common Goldeneye
Red-breasted Merganser
Rock Pigeon
Mourning Dove
Ring-billed Gull
American Herring Gull
Great Black-backed Gull
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
European Starling
Northern Mockingbird
American Robin
House Finch
American Tree Sparrow
Birding Tips
- 1
Listen for vocalizations to locate canopy-dwelling warblers and vireos.
- 2
Check forest edges and clearings for flycatchers and thrushes.
- 3
Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.
- 4
Bring insect repellent — wetland areas can have significant mosquito activity, especially in warmer months.
- 5
Waterproof boots are recommended as trails near marshes can be muddy, especially after rain.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
- Sandy Hook Lighthouse
- Fort Hancock
- Gateway National Recreation Area
More in New Jersey
New Jersey Birding Guide
Complete guide to birding in New Jersey →