Coastal Birding, Maine

Don, looking out over the ocean for birds

While we were recently birding in Maine, trying to see the European Golden-Plover (with no luck), we stopped on the coast to see what birds were on the move. Lots of birds were.

Surf Scoters, adult males

Surf Scoters, those sea ducks with almost clown-like coloring (on the males) were migrating in long lines. They winter along both coasts.

Surf Scoter, flock

Common Loons

Common Loons make their way from inland northern lakes, where they nest, to coastal areas. The loon on the left in the above photo is changing from its breeding to non-breeding plumage.

Northern Gannet, adult

Northern Gannets are dramatic seabirds who can be seen moving along the eastern coastline during migration.

Double-crested Cormorants

Double-crested Cormorants were moving in long lines. They can be seen in a variety of water habitats, from inland to the sea.

One of the things we love about fall birding, is that so many species of birds are on the move. You can have fun looking for them at your bird feeder, or take a trip to lake or coastal areas as we did. There's always lots to look for.