Birding on Block Island, RI
Home to sprawling beaches, stunning cliffsides, serene marshes, a quaint town, and expansive fields, Block Island is known to attract more than just inspired travelers. Located just 13 miles offshore in the Atlantic Flyway, over 250 species of birds flock to the island, making it a paradise for bird and nature lovers.
Birding Highlights on Block Island
The best time to see migrating songbirds and raptors traveling south is autumn. The cooler temperatures and the changing colors of the island’s diverse habitats make spotting merlins, peregrine falcons, hawks, and other bird species all the more breathtaking.
In the spring and summer, despite the return of several species of birds for the warmer weather, migrations on Block Island slow. But it is still a great time to spot the island’s resident feathered friends nesting, including Rhode Island’s largest gull colony that includes grand numbers of Herring and Great Black-backed gulls.
This destination is a year-round birding hotspot thanks to its mix of meadows, wetlands, and rocky shorelines. In open fields, you may see a Red-tailed Hawk or an American Robin, while wetlands attract Greater Yellowlegs and Canada Geese. Along the beaches, look for American Oystercatchers and Common Terns.
Best Bird Watching Trails & Viewing Spots
In addition to Block Island’s unique scenic views, such as the Mohegan Bluffs and a variety of beaches, the region offers several trails ideal for birdwatching.
Clay Head Trail is especially noted for spotting migratory songbirds, so it’s a must-stop if you’re traveling in autumn. With 3.5 miles of moderate terrain, you can spot warblers, thrushes, hawks, and falcons alongside the coastal bluffs and panoramic ocean views. Rodman’s Hollow offers an untouched paradise for spotting birds like northern harriers, sparrows, and more in the quiet, expansive glacial outwash basin.
Bird Watch Responsibly
To make the most out of your fine and feathered adventure, plan ahead and respect your surroundings. Head out early and be sure to pack a bag with water, sunblock, your binoculars or camera, and a journal or a recording app to document what you see. Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing for the weather.
Regardless of the length or location of your journey, be mindful of your surroundings and leave the habitats as you found them. Block Island has several ongoing conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and protecting the nesting areas of threatened species, such as the piping plover, as well as research initiatives through the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge and the Audubon Society of Rhode Island.
Birdwatchers of all ages will enjoy spotting the diverse array of Block Island birds, from the fierce migratory raptors and swooping seabirds to the common feathered friends. Plan your next trip now for a one-of-a-kind birding experience!
