Cape May – New Jersey, USA

About

Cape May, New Jersey is a seaside town that you may not immediately associate with birds or birding. Located on the Atlantic coast, as a part of the Cape May Peninsula, this historic coastal town is commonly known for homes and museums from eras long ago but now is known as a bird photography staple. There are several birding hot spots in the area that can’t be missed by bird photographers. Higbee Beach is a dune forest that is a popular stop for migrating songbirds. The place to see large numbers of seabirds is the Avalon Seawatch along the beach. Another is Cape May National Wildlife Refuge which supports the migration of 317 species of birds. These are just a few of the best birding locations around Cape May.

Founded in 1976 by the New Jersey Audubon, the Cape May Bird Observatory contributes to the conservation of many bird species. Each year, Cape May is host to a Fall and Spring festival and the World Series of Birding that hosts birders and bird photographers from all over the world.

Cape May is a migration junction for many bird species, making it popular for bird photographers looking for the best nature photography. The area boasts beautiful habitats and protected areas that allow for conservation efforts to propel forward. Cape May welcomes seasoned birders as well as novices. Birding beginners can learn more about the birds that populate the area, at the time of their visit, at the Cape May School of Birding. These workshops are taught by birding professionals and experts focusing on the appreciation of the birds that settle there. Some bird species that can be found at Cape May are Hawks, Black Skimmers, Sanderlings, American Herring Gulls, Laughing Gulls, and Ruddy Turnstones.

Owen traveled here in October 2003.