Birding

The refuge's coastal location, tropical climate, and wide variety of habitat types contribute to its diverse bird population. To date, 357 species have been identified on the refuge.

There are breeding populations of Bald Eagles, Osprey, Brown Pelicans, Roseate Spoonbills, Reddish Egrets and Mottled Ducks. Spectacular migrations of passerine birds, especially warblers, occur during the spring and fall. During the winter months, concentrations of waterfowl can peak in the tens of thousands, and a wide variety of shorebirds can be found. Large numbers of wading birds, including ten species of herons and egrets, can be found year round. 

While marshes and shallow impoundments are the most productive birding areas, to find the widest variety of species you should also visit mangrove-rimmed shorelines, cabbage palm and hardwood hammocks, palmetto and pine uplands, oak scrub and the beach. The refuge has roads and trails in each of these habitats in order to enhance bird watching opportunities. 

The cool winter months (November-April) are generally the best times of year for birding. Birding early in the morning or in late afternoon is usually the most rewarding. 

Birding Tours

New to birding or the Refuge? Be sure to check out one of the Refuge's Birding Tours! Knowledgeable volunteer refuge guides will be on board to tell you all about refuge habitats, its birds and wildlife during a two hour tour. Tours generally run from November through April. Tickets are $10 per person or $5 if you have a senior pass. Space on the minibus is limited, so be sure to make a reservation. Call the visitor center at 321-861-0669. Tours are on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and leave from the visitors center at 10 am.

Social Media

Visit the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Birding group on Facebook to learn more about recent sightings. This Refuge moderated page can be found at: Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Birding | Facebook