Turn Vacation Places into Birding Hotspots

What comes to mind when you think of Gulf Shores, Alabama? Ocean breezes, sandy beaches, the gleaming sun? If so, you’re right, but what you might not think of is BIRDS! I visited the area in early April and was able to see some great birding hotspots.

One afternoon was spent at Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a 7,000-acre habitat consisting of maritime forest, coastal marsh, beach and open water. This diverse habitat is along the flyway for millions of spring and fall migrants. More than 370 species of birds have been identified during migration seasons.

We made our way down the 2-mile Pine Beach Trail, said hello to the nesting great-horned owl on our right, and headed to the beach. Our park ranger guide, Denise, told us that there were snowy plovers nesting on the beach. Sure enough! We spotted them.

The next afternoon was spent on a dolphin and nature watch cruise. Sure, the dolphins are the main attraction. But when you’re participating in any nature-related tour, ask your guide about the other wildlife around. We got fantastic looks at an osprey flying over us with a fish in its grip, brown pelicans in the water and more!

What I’d most like you to take away from this post is that you can literally go bird-watching anywhere. So if you think your summer vacation spot isn’t a mecca for birds, dig deep, do research and I’d be willing to bet something bird-watching related will turn up. Oh, and look up!

Have you ever planned a vacation around bird-watching? Or have you been surprised by a bird you’ve seen while on vacation? If so, where? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!