National Lakeshore - Cape Spear

Newfoundland and Labrador · Canada

Habitat
Boreal/TaigaForest
Best Seasons
SpringSummerFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

May-October

About This Location

National Lakeshore - Cape Spear is a productive birding destination in Newfoundland and Labrador, with 224 species recorded on eBird. This boreal/taiga and forest habitat attracts Common Eider, Long-tailed Duck, and Purple Sandpiper among many others. Boreal and temperate forests host breeding warblers, sparrows, and waterfowl during the productive summer months.

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

Ring-billed Gull

Larus delawarensis

3/6/2026St. John's--Quidi Vidi Lake3 observed

American Coot

Fulica americana

3/6/2026St. John's--Quidi Vidi Lake5 observed

Common Gull

Larus canus

3/3/2026St. John's--Quidi Vidi Lake1 observed

Wood Duck

Aix sponsa

3/2/2026Waterford River Walk--Symes Bridge to Blackhead Rd1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Common Eider

13/3/2026

Long-tailed Duck

1103/3/2026

Purple Sandpiper

903/3/2026

Black Guillemot

233/3/2026

American Herring Gull

213/3/2026

Iceland Gull

43/3/2026

Bald Eagle

13/3/2026

Common Raven

13/3/2026

Great Black-backed Gull

13/1/2026

Black-legged Kittiwake

502/27/2026

Great Cormorant

12/27/2026

Redpoll

22/27/2026

Common Loon

12/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Listen for boreal specialties like Boreal Chickadee and Spruce Grouse.

  2. 2

    Check spruce and fir stands for crossbills and other irruptive finches.

  3. 3

    Peak breeding season runs from late May through June for most songbirds.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit National Lakeshore - Cape Spear for birding?
The best months to visit National Lakeshore - Cape Spear for birding are May-October. The best seasons are Spring and Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at National Lakeshore - Cape Spear?
Notable species at National Lakeshore - Cape Spear include Common Eider, Long-tailed Duck, Purple Sandpiper, Black Guillemot, American Herring Gull. The area supports boreal/taiga, forest habitats.
How difficult is birding at National Lakeshore - Cape Spear?
Birding at National Lakeshore - Cape Spear is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at National Lakeshore - Cape Spear?
National Lakeshore - Cape Spear offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.