Southern Massachusetts Birding Sites
Southern Massachusetts is a prime destination for birding, offering a diversity of habitats that attract a wide variety of bird species throughout the year. From coastal wetlands and the open Atlantic Ocean to dense woodlands and rolling farmland, the region supports an impressive range of avian life. Birding enthusiasts can explore numerous hotspots stretching from the Rhode Island border all the way to the tip of Cape Cod, each offering opportunities to spot different species. In the winter, the area becomes a haven for Arctic birds that are otherwise only seen in Canada and polar regions, while the summer months bring an influx of migratory warblers, sparrows, and waterbirds. On boat rides just off the coast, one has a chance to spot rarely seen pelagic bird species. These features make Southern Massachusetts a year-round treasure for birdwatchers.
Click locations on the map to learn about winter and summer birding hotspots.
View images of the featured species and locations. While the featured species are not an exhaustive list, they represent the most unique birds to be found at each location. Blue pins represent winter hotspots, while red pins represent summer hotspots.
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How should I get to Southern Massachusetts?
The closest destination for air travel is the Boston Logan Airport, located about 60 miles north of the Southern Massachusetts region.
From there, one can rent a car or take the MBTA commuter rail. Commuter rails run multiple times a day from downtown Boston to the base of Cape Cod
as well as New Bedford.
What is the typical temperature and weather?
Southern Massachusetts experiences all four seasons. In the summer months, temperatures range from 60 degrees at night to 82 degrees during the day.
The climate is humid and the weather flips frequently between rain and shine. In the winter months, the temperature ranges from 22-43 degrees and snowfall
is frequent, especially during the months of January and February. Strong winds can occur along the coast and on the open ocean.
What are the transportation options within Southern Massachusetts?
Rental cars will be needed to drive between hotspots ranging from the border of Rhode Island to the tip of Cape Cod.