Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge

Rhode Island · Northeast

Habitat
Wetland
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Moderate

Best Months

April-May, September-October

About This Location

Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge is a productive birding destination in Rhode Island, with 239 species recorded on eBird. This wetland habitat attracts a wide variety of species among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

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

Rough-legged Hawk

Buteo lagopus

3/6/202638 Marine Ave, Jamestown US-RI 41.49395, -71.383141 observed

Red-tailed Hawk (abieticola)

Buteo jamaicensis

3/5/2026273 Boom Bridge Rd, North Stonington US-CT 41.42504, -71.815651 observed

Black-headed Gull

Chroicocephalus ridibundus

3/4/2026The Narrows, Narragansett4 observed

Eared Grebe

Podiceps nigricollis

3/2/2026Stonington Town Dock & WWTP1 observed

Tufted Duck

Aythya fuligula

3/2/2026Trustom Pond NWR--Moonstone Beach1 observed

Golden Eagle

Aquila chrysaetos

3/2/2026Anthony Rd.1 observed

Thick-billed Murre

Uria lomvia

3/1/2026Black Point Fishing Area1 observed

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring waterproof boots for marsh trails and muddy edges.

  2. 2

    Scan the edges of open water for herons, egrets, and rails at dawn.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge for birding?
The best months to visit Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge?
Notable species at Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge include Great Blue Heron, Red-winged Blackbird, Mallard, Green Heron, Virginia Rail. The area supports wetland habitats.
How difficult is birding at Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge?
Birding at Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge is rated as Moderate. Some trails may require moderate fitness and basic hiking ability.
What amenities are available at Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge?
Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Auto Tour Route.