The White Mountains’ spruce forest and high elevation are the perfect home for many bird species! Birding is a year-round attraction in Twin Mountain-Bretton Woods, but spring and summer offer the best birding experience!
The Bicknell’s Thrush, a highly sought-after bird, can be found in the peaks of Twin Mountain-Bretton Woods. By Mid-April and May, many migratory species will have returned to their mountain breeding grounds for the warmer months. The warm, wet weather brings out the insects that feed the local species, drawing them from their winter hiding places.
Some popular birds, like the Bicknell’s Thrush, Spruce Grouse, Gray Jay, Black-backed Woodpecker, and Boreal Chickadee, live in smaller populations making them more challenging to spot. While the more densely populated species will be easier to find, such as several of the Flycatcher, Warbler, and Crossbill families. Closer to the lake, in the Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge, you can spot loons, blue jays, gold shiners, as well as Bald Eagles and Osprey. Before you head out on your bird sighting adventure, it is helpful to decide how and where you’ll be bird watching.
Spotting Birds by Trail
Hiking is one of the easiest ways to bird-watch. The slow ascend on the trail will give you time to search the treetops for different species. Bring your binoculars to see further out into the forest and spot birds perched between branches. Bird watching while hiking will give you a unique opportunity to experience all that nature has to offer through the various seasons.
Bird Watching on Mount Washington
Want to see local birds without trekking the trails? Many species of birds can be easily spotted from powered vehicles. Take a ride up the Mount Washington Cog Railway for spectacular views while keeping an eye out for Blackpoll Warblers, the Yellow-Bellied Fletcher, and the Bicknell’s Thrush.
These same species listed above can also be seen while climbing the Mt. Washington Auto Road! Early in the spring, the Auto Road offers guided tours to explore the scenery and by late May, they open the road and allow you to drive your own vehicle. If you are particularly interested in seeing the Bicknell’s Thrush, book a spot on the Auto Road’s Bicknell’s Thrush Tour, happening on select dates in May and June.
Birding Resources & Locations
Birding is easy to integrate into other spring and summer activities like biking, kayaking, or taking a scenic drive. Download an app such as eBird and All Trails for real-time updates on specific locations where bird sightings have occurred. And you can track all of your bird sightings using this checklist!
Not sure where to begin your birding journey? Here are a few of our favorite spots to visit in Twin Mountain-Bretton Woods:
- Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge (hike/kayak/bike)
- Franconia Notch (hike, Aerial Tram, The Flume)
- Mt. Washington Auto-Road (drive)
- Mount Washington Cog Railway (train/hike)
Learn even more about birding in New Hampshire through NH Audubon!