Birding at the Marsh Boardwalk

Marsh grasses thrive on Cumberland Island's western side and provide many ecological benefits. A boardwalk between the Dungeness ruins area and beach crossing allows visitors a glimpse into this active habitat. Near low tide, many bird species will fly in to feed. Common birds found here are great blue herons, great egrets, snowy egrets and kingfishers. During the spring migration, large flocks of sandpipers and plovers will swoop in for a quick bite to refuel for the rest of their journey. Red-winged blackbirds start filling the marsh with their characteristic calls in the spring and can be heard throughout the summer. In the summer, roseate spoonbills can be spotted moving their bills side to side through the water looking for food. Oystercatchers and black skimmers can sometimes be spotted in the marsh, though they are more common on the beach. White ibis are common in the marsh. They tend to stick to the tall grasses, and are sometimes only visible when taking off or landing in large flocks. Clapper rails are rarely seen, but listen closely for their distinctive call. The marsh boardwalk is also on the edge of the maritime forest, so some other species can be observed from this location. Look for flocks of tree swallows swooping around, warblers flitting through the trees or vultures perched atop a dead limb.