Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge - Old Coast Guard Station

North Carolina · Southeast

ChallengingView on eBird
Habitat
CoastalWetland
Best Seasons
SpringFallWinter
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

October-April

About This Location

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge - Old Coast Guard Station is a productive birding destination in North Carolina, with 299 species recorded on eBird. This coastal and wetland habitat attracts Gadwall, Mallard, and American Black Duck 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

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Iceland Gull

Larus glaucoides

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

Red-necked Grebe

Podiceps grisegena

3/4/2026Nags Head--Jennette's Pier1 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

Iceland Gull (kumlieni)

Larus glaucoides

2/27/2026First Flight Boardwalk1 observed

American Herring x Lesser Black-backed Gull (hybrid)

Larus smithsonianus x fuscus

2/22/2026Cape Hatteras NS -- Ramp 23-271 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 Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge - Old Coast Guard Station for birding?
The best months to visit Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge - Old Coast Guard Station for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge - Old Coast Guard Station?
Notable species at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge - Old Coast Guard Station include Gadwall, Mallard, American Black Duck, Black Scoter, Red-breasted Merganser. The area supports coastal, wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge - Old Coast Guard Station?
Birding at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge - Old Coast Guard Station is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
What amenities are available at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge - Old Coast Guard Station?
Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge - Old Coast Guard Station offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.