National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South

Newfoundland and Labrador · Canada

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
SpringSummerFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

May-October

About This Location

National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South is a productive birding destination in Newfoundland and Labrador, with 205 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Northern Saw-whet Owl, Common Eider, and Long-tailed Duck 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

Common Gull

Larus canus

2/28/2026St. Shott's--townsite, cove, and lighthouse1 observed

Northern Saw-whet Owl

Aegolius acadicus

2/21/2026NL--Portugal Cove South1 observed

Wilson's Snipe

Gallinago delicata

2/21/2026Cape Race Rd--Cripple Cove to Cape Race1 observed

Lincoln's Sparrow

Melospiza lincolnii

2/21/2026Cappahayden--townsite1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Common Eider

222/21/2026

Long-tailed Duck

62/21/2026

Red-breasted Merganser

22/21/2026

Black Guillemot

22/21/2026

American Herring Gull

12/21/2026

Iceland Gull

12/21/2026

Red-throated Loon

32/21/2026

Common Loon

12/21/2026

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South for birding?
The best months to visit National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South for birding are May-October. The best seasons are Spring and Summer and Fall.
What birds can I see at National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South?
Notable species at National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South include Northern Saw-whet Owl, Common Eider, Long-tailed Duck, Red-breasted Merganser, Black Guillemot. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South?
Birding at National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South?
National Lakeshore - Portugal Cove South offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.