Bodie Island

North Carolina · Southeast

ChallengingView on eBird
Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Bodie Island is a productive birding destination in North Carolina, with 249 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Tundra Swan, Gadwall, and Mallard among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Iceland Gull

Larus glaucoides

3/4/2026Bodie Island--Coquina Beach1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

3/3/2026Rodanthe Boat Access Area2 observed

American Herring x Glaucous Gull (hybrid)

Larus smithsonianus x hyperboreus

3/3/2026Harvey Soundside Park1 observed

Pacific Loon

Gavia pacifica

3/2/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier1 observed

Pacific Loon

Gavia pacifica

3/2/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier1 observed

Iceland Gull

Larus glaucoides

3/2/2026Prospect Ave, Beach Access1 observed

Iceland Gull

Larus glaucoides

3/2/2026Prospect Ave, Beach Access1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

3/2/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier2 observed

Pacific Loon

Gavia pacifica

3/2/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

3/2/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

3/2/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

3/2/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier1 observed

American Herring x Glaucous Gull (hybrid)

Larus smithsonianus x hyperboreus

3/2/2026First Flight Boardwalk1 observed

Iceland Gull

Larus glaucoides

3/2/2026First Flight Boardwalk1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

3/1/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

3/1/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

2/28/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier1 observed

Green-winged Teal (Eurasian)

Anas crecca

2/28/2026Alligator River NWR--Sawyer Lake Rd.1 observed

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

2/27/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier1 observed

Iceland Gull (kumlieni)

Larus glaucoides

2/27/2026First Flight Boardwalk1 observed

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

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Bodie Island for birding?
The best months to visit Bodie Island for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Bodie Island?
Notable species at Bodie Island include Tundra Swan, Gadwall, Mallard, Ring-billed Gull, Northern Harrier. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Bodie Island?
Birding at Bodie Island is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Bodie Island?
Bodie Island offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.