Birdwatching at Gulf Islands

More than 280 species of birds have been identified within the boundaries of the park, since its establishment in January 1971. The national seashore comprises several diverse ecological communities which attract a wide variety of bird life such as barrier islands, freshwater and salt marshes, and wooded areas. Open beaches provide valuable habitat for nesting shorebirds, which Gulf Islands actively protects during nesting season each year. Tips You don't need any equipment to get started birdwatching, but a few extra items can be helpful in enhance your enjoyment. A good pair of binoculars, or a spotting scope can help you to identify and observe birds without disturbing their natural activities. You may also want to invest in a bird guide to help you identify the different species that you see, which can be purchased at the park store or online. Part of the fun of birdwatching is the thrill of the "hunt" — you never know when you'll see something! Keep your eyes and ears open while you're out in the seashore, watching for signs of sudden movement or a bird singing in the treetops. Pay particular attention to food and water sources, as well as perches and ground cover. It also helps to know what habitat different species of birds prefer. Some species prefer open spaces where they can easily spot prey, while others prefer the safety of dense underbrush. Three areas within Gulf Islands National Seashore are listed as sites on the Great Florida Birding Trail: Perdido Key, Naval Live Oaks, and Fort Pickens. The Trail is a program of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, and birders can view more details on specific species of interest on their panhandle webpage. The park is also featured on the Mississippi Coast Birding Trail in partnership with the National Audubon Society. Visitors to Mississippi can view sought after bird species on their Davis Bayou webpage.