Fish & Wildlife

As a major route on the Atlantic Flyway, New Jersey's birding sites offer spectacular views of dozens of species including shore birds and blue herons. For birding enthusiasts, New Jersey is a haven for sites that offer great views of migrating fowl.

Each year, the New Jersey Audubon Society hosts the World Series of Birding in Cape May. During the event, which is entering its 23rd year, teams of bird watchers are challenged to count as many species as possible during a 24-hour period. The society also operates the Cape May Bird Observatory in Cape May Point.

The 43,000-acre Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in southern New Jersey is a coastal habitat that protects migratory birds. Administered by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, it has numerous prospects for birding.

Another large bird sanctuary can be found at the Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area in Highlands. The park is open year 'round and is home to hundreds of bird species.

The Meadowlands in Lyndhurst is home to more than 265 species of birds and is recognized as a major migratory fly-over and resting preserve.

This is just a sampling of areas that provide birders, photographers and nature lovers with opportunities to enjoy New Jersey's great outdoors.