Birding by Kayak in Island Beach State Park

Where the birds are!

by Skyler Streich, Barnegat Bay Birder-In-Residence

Every  Thursday this summer, I am leading birding trips throughout Island Beach State Park.  One week we walk, the next week we paddle.  This Thursday, August 5th, I will lead a walk amongst the sand dunes and along the bay.  The following Thursday, August 12th, we will paddle throughout the Sedge Islands.

Over the past couple of weeks we have seen a number of uncommon birds as well as some more common species.  The interesting birds of the July 15th trip included numerous ospreys collecting nesting material and hunting and capturing fish to take back to their nest and feed their young; a great view of a flock of glossy ibis flying in the distance; and great views of Forster’s terns and double crested cormorants. The highlights of the trip on July 29th included a marbled godwit on a sandbar directly in front of the kayak launch; 12 whimbrels flying overhead; and a single brant near the mouth of Spizzle Creek.  The number of shorebirds are steadily increasing in the bay as we move towards fall migration.

I hope you can join me on a walk or a paddle this August.  The remaining walks for the season are August 5th, August 19th, and September 2nd.  For more information about the bird walks, please call (609) 984-0621.  The remaining kayak trips are August 12th and August 26th.  Kayak trips are $25.00 and include a kayak, paddle, and life jacket.

• For more information or to register for a kayak tour, please call 732-250-6314