Acadia National Park: Where Mountains Meet the Sea for Spectacular Birding

Acadia National Park in coastal Maine is a birding jewel where rugged granite peaks meet the Atlantic Ocean. With 362 recorded bird species, diverse habitats from spruce-fir forests to rocky coastlines, and spectacular seasonal migrations, Acadia offers some of the finest birding in the northeastern United States.

Spring Warbler Migration

Late April through early June brings one of North America's most spectacular warbler migrations. Acadia hosts up to 23 warbler species during peak migration, including Black-throated Green, Blackburnian, Yellow-rumped, Northern Parula, and the stunning Blackpoll Warbler. The diverse habitats at Sieur de Monts Springs and along the park's numerous trails create ideal conditions for observing these colorful migrants.

Atlantic Puffins and Seabirds

One of Acadia's most iconic birding experiences is viewing Atlantic Puffins on offshore islands. From April through August, boat tours from Bar Harbor take visitors to seabird colonies where puffins, razorbills, common murres, and various tern species nest. These charismatic seabirds with their colorful beaks are a must-see for any birder visiting Maine.

Peregrine Falcons

Acadia is home to nesting Peregrine Falcons, the fastest animals on Earth capable of diving at speeds exceeding 240 mph. These magnificent raptors nest on the park's high granite cliffs from March through August. Viewing platforms allow birders to observe these powerful predators without disturbing their nesting activities, with chicks often visible in spring.

Boreal Forest Specialties

Acadia's spruce-fir forests and sphagnum bogs host boreal bird species typically found much farther north. Look for Boreal Chickadees, Spruce Grouse, Black-backed Woodpeckers, and Gray Jays in the park's coniferous forests. The Western Mountains region offers excellent opportunities for finding these northern specialties along with breeding warblers during summer months.

Year-Round Birding Opportunities

While spring and summer offer peak diversity, Acadia provides excellent birding year-round. Fall migration from August through October brings concentrations of shorebirds to coastal areas like Thompson Island. Winter offers opportunities to see sea ducks including Common Eiders, Long-tailed Ducks, and all three scoter species along the rocky coastline.

Best Birding Locations

Top birding sites include Sieur de Monts Springs for spring migrants, the Western Mountains trails for boreal species, Thompson Island for shorebirds, and the coastal areas around Bar Harbor for seabirds and waterfowl. Each habitat offers unique birding experiences throughout the seasons.