Birding in Twin Mountain-Bretton Woods can’t be beat. Our region is located within the White Mountain National Forest, a federally managed forest spanning over 750,000 acres. With over 200 species of birds calling Twin Mountain-Bretton Woods “home,” many people flock to this area (no pun intended!) to observe birds in their natural habitat.
Although birds can be seen year-round, the prime time for birding is between April and November. May and June are the best months to spot warblers, while September and October are the best months for migrating waterfowl.
Common birds to see in the White Mountains include: Spruce Grouse, Black-backed Woodpecker, Boreal Chickadee, Bicknell’s Thrush, warblers, flycatchers, crossbills and grosbeak.
If you are new to birding the Audubon website provides helpful information on:
Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge
Not sure where to begin your birding adventure? Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge is a great place to start! Ever since Horace Wright wrote about the birds of Pondicherry in his 1911 book, The Birds of the Jefferson Region in the White Mountains, the refuge has been a popular spot for birders.
On a trip to Pondicherry, you are bound to see a variety of birds including loon, American bittern, blue jays, yellow perch, and golden shiners. Osprey and bald eagles are also regularly spotted. Print off this checklist and see how many birds you can spot on your visit!
Bicknell’s Thrush on Mountain Washington
The Bicknell’s Thrush, an extremely rare bird species, can been seen in late May and early June on Mount Washington. They usually breed at higher elevations and is the rarest and most secretive of the breeding thrushes in North America. The Bicknell Thrush prefers to nest in short, stunted conifers near the tops of mountains making Mount Washington and the White Mountains a perfect summer home for these birds.
Start Your
Adventure
Download Our Free Guide
