Wildlife watching
From sandy beaches and tidal flats to salt marshes and coastal waters, Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge offers incredible opportunities to observe wildlife throughout the year. Located along the Atlantic Flyway, the refuge provides critical habitat for migratory birds and is recognized as an Important Bird Area and a Site of Regional Importance by the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network.
Where to Watch Wildlife
The Morris Island trails offer opportunities to observe migratory songbirds, shorebirds, horseshoe crabs, and occasionally seals along the coastline. Each season brings new wildlife encounters as birds migrate, nest, feed, and rest throughout the refuge.
The offshore islands of North Monomoy, South Monomoy, and Minimoy provide important habitat for breeding and wintering birds and support the largest gray seal haul-out on the U.S. East Coast. Accessible only by boat, these areas offer unique wildlife viewing opportunities, though seasonal closures may restrict public access.
Whether you're watching shorebirds along the beach or spotting seals in the surrounding waters, Monomoy offers a remarkable glimpse into Cape Cod's coastal wildlife.
Watch Wildlife Responsibly
The best wildlife encounters happen when animals can go about their natural behaviors undisturbed. Help protect Monomoy's sensitive coastal wildlife by following these guidelines:
- Give shorebirds space: Avoid disturbing birds that are nesting, feeding, or resting. If a bird changes its behavior as you approach, you're too close.
- Walk around the flock: Give resting groups of shorebirds plenty of room, especially during migration.
- Keep your distance from seals: Stay at least 150 feet away and follow NOAA's seal viewing guidelines.
- Respect wildlife closures: Stay within designated public access areas and observe all posted signs protecting nesting and resting wildlife.
- Know the pet restrictions: Pets are prohibited year-round on the offshore islands. Dogs are prohibited on Morris Island from May 1 through September 15, but leashed dogs are permitted on designated trails during the off-season.
- Check the tides: Portions of the Morris Island trails may be inaccessible during high tide.
Found wildlife that needs help? Report stranded or entangled marine mammals to the International Fund for Animal Welfare at (508) 744-2000. For sick or injured birds, contact Wild Care at (508) 240-2255.
Learn more about protecting shorebirds and their habitats through Shorebird Disturbance Awareness.
