Birdwatching is more than a hobby; it’s a passionate pursuit that brings you closer to nature’s grandeur and variety. The contiguous United States, with its diverse landscapes and climatic zones, offers some of the best birdwatching locations on the planet. Here are the top five destinations every birder should include on their bucket list:

1. Cape May, New Jersey

Located at the southernmost point of New Jersey, Cape May is a haven for bird enthusiasts. This location is renowned for its remarkable fall raptor migration, where thousands of hawks, eagles, and falcons journey south. Additionally, the diversity of habitats, from beaches and wetlands to forests, attract an impressive array of bird species. Notably, the Cape May Bird Observatory is a must-visit for birdwatchers with its educational programs and bird-banding demonstrations.

2. Monterey Bay, California

Offering a unique opportunity to witness sea bird species, Monterey Bay is a dream destination for birders. Pelagic birding tours offer close encounters with albatrosses, shearwaters, and other sea birds rarely seen from the shore. The Elkhorn Slough at Moss Landing is particularly attractive for birders, hosting the largest concentration of migratory birds along the California coast during the fall and winter seasons.

3. High Island, Texas

This small patch of land off the coast of Texas has earned an international reputation for spring bird migrations. High Island is situated at a crucial point along the Central Flyway migration route, making it an essential stopover for birds crossing the Gulf of Mexico. You’ll be mesmerized by the sheer numbers and diversity of songbirds, especially warblers, during the spring season.

4. Platte River, Nebraska

Between late February and early April, the Platte River in central Nebraska becomes the staging area for the world’s largest concentration of sandhill cranes. Nearly half a million cranes rest and feed along the river on their northward migration, providing an unmatched spectacle. While the cranes are the highlight, the Platte River also draws other species, such as snow geese and various ducks, adding to its birding appeal.

5. Everglades National Park, Florida

With its vast wetlands and subtropical wilderness, the Everglades is a birder’s paradise. The park boasts an impressive list of resident and migratory species, including wading birds, raptors, and a variety of songbirds. The Anhinga Trail, named after the snakebird or “anhinga” often seen here, is especially renowned for birdwatching. Don’t miss out on spotting the vibrant and endangered Florida scrub-jay, the only bird species endemic to the state.

These diverse and rich locations offer unforgettable birdwatching experiences and the chance to observe species seldom seen elsewhere. So pack your binoculars, field guide, and camera, and prepare to embark on a birding journey like no other across the contiguous United States.