Stops for the Birder
Are you an avid birds watcher, or do you know someone who is? Don’t miss Alabama’s Coastal Connection Scenic Byway, a popular destination for exploring and viewing birds.
There are around 10,000 bird species worldwide, with the United States having around 1,000 species. Alabama boasts 440 species of birds that breed here, winter, or migrate through, and most can be seen around the Alabama Gulf Coast.
Birds Watching Waypoints Along The Scenic Byway:
Dauphin Island
- Dauphin Island is a 14-mile-long barrier island located off the Gulf Coast. The Audubon Bird Sanctuary is located on Dauphin Island and is one of the top spring migration viewing points in the U.S. The sanctuary is the first and last piece of land for the migrating birds returning to Central and South America. They are typically tired after their long flight across the Gulf of Mexico, so the island provides a welcome stopping point. More than 400 different species have been observed here.
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
- At least 360 species of birds have been spotted around Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. Located in Gulf Shores, this birder’s paradise is a place for migratory birds to rest between their breeding and wintering grounds.
Fort Morgan
- Fort Morgan is mainly known for being a historical site but also a place for birders. Among the wildlife areas around the site, one is a birdwatching area. Fort Morgan has been named in the list of “One Hundred Globally Important Bird Areas” by the American Bird Conservancy. Informative signage is posted throughout the site to help guide you.
Graham Creek Nature Preserve
- Wolf Creek, located in Graham Creek Nature Preserve, has a raised boardwalk through wetlands and a pavilion that offers great birdwatching views.
Gulf State Park
- Gulf State Park is the location of many residential and migrating birds. Stop by the nature center if you have questions about the birds you spot on your journey.