Buckhorn Reservoir

North Carolina · Southeast

Habitat
Lake
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Buckhorn Reservoir is a productive birding destination in North Carolina, with 246 species recorded on eBird. This lake habitat attracts Canada Goose, American Herring Gull, and Lesser Black-backed Gull 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

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

23/4/2026

American Herring Gull

3/4/2026

Lesser Black-backed Gull

3/4/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

83/4/2026

Turkey Vulture

83/4/2026

American Crow

13/4/2026

Carolina Chickadee

23/4/2026

Tufted Titmouse

13/4/2026

Song Sparrow

13/4/2026

Yellow-rumped Warbler

13/4/2026

Mourning Dove

23/1/2026

American Coot

63/1/2026

Killdeer

13/1/2026

Ring-billed Gull

603/1/2026

Pied-billed Grebe

13/1/2026

Great Blue Heron

13/1/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

13/1/2026

Belted Kingfisher

13/1/2026

Red-bellied Woodpecker

13/1/2026

Downy Woodpecker

13/1/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Scan the water surface methodically for diving ducks, loons, and grebes.

  2. 2

    Check the shoreline and mudflats for shorebirds and wading birds.

  3. 3

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Buckhorn Reservoir for birding?
The best months to visit Buckhorn Reservoir for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Buckhorn Reservoir?
Notable species at Buckhorn Reservoir include Canada Goose, American Herring Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Double-crested Cormorant, Turkey Vulture. The area supports lake habitats.
How difficult is birding at Buckhorn Reservoir?
Birding at Buckhorn Reservoir is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Buckhorn Reservoir?
Buckhorn Reservoir offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.