Birding Barn Island, Hammonasset, and Secret Spots

Hammonasset Beach, a Global Important Bird Area on Long Island Sound in Connecticut, is a birder's dream in fall migration. Large expanses of tidal marsh, sandy beach, and grassland attract shorebirds and wading birds, some of which can be hard to locate in Massachusetts, such as Little Blue Heron, Clapper Rail, American Golden-Plover, Whimbrel, American Oystercatcher, and Pectoral Sandpiper. Vast open areas are perfect for viewing Peregrine Falcon, Merlin, American Kestrel, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Northern Harrier, and other raptors migrating along the coast. At the same time, patches of mixed woodland are great songbird migrant traps. Add beautiful scenery and this is truly an amazing destination.