Winging It: Four Seasons of Birdwatching on Cape Ann

May 10, 2024 / Outdoor Adventures

Cape Ann, renowned for its stunning coastline and charming towns, isn’t just a haven for summer vacationers. In fact, it holds a well-kept secret for bird enthusiasts: its exceptional winter birdwatching experiences.

While spring and summer bring their own magic, the winter months reveal a different side of Cape Ann’s avian wonders. As temperatures drop, birds from Canada’s northern forests and arctic landscapes migrate southward, making Cape Ann their temporary home. Along the coastline, species like ducks, loons, and grebes gather to enjoy the milder climate and ample food supply.

Led by Mass Audubon’s expert guides, winter birdwatching expeditions on Cape Ann offer a unique perspective. Starting at Gloucester’s Jodrey State Fish Pier, you’ll be greeted by a bustling scene of gulls and occasional rarities in the harbor’s waters. Venturing further to spots like Eastern Point Wildlife Sanctuary and Niles Pond, you’ll encounter a diverse array of species, from scoters and eiders to Purple Sandpipers and Cormorants.

But Cape Ann’s allure isn’t just about birdwatching. A stop at Rockport’s “T Wharf” offers unexpected encounters with feathered friends. Explore Granite Pier and Cathedral Rocks, where seabirds like the striking Harlequin Ducks thrive in abundance. And don’t miss Halibut Point State Park, where a short walk unveils a stunning seascape teeming with coastal treasures.

Amid the serene ambiance of Cape Ann in winter, there’s nothing quite like warming up with a bowl of chowder in one of its cozy eateries. Beyond the tourist season, Cape Ann reveals its true essence, inviting birdwatchers to witness its soaring wonders with a backdrop of tranquility and natural beauty.

Experience Cape Ann’s winter magic— where every bird sighting is a moment of awe and every landscape a masterpiece in the making.