From the rocky shores of the Atlantic coast to the numerous inland lakes and rivers, New Hampshire is a haven for an array of species of water birds. These birds, each with their own distinct songs, colors, and behaviors, are an integral part of the state’s vibrant ecosystems.
New Hampshire water birds
| Species | Frequency | Where to Find in New Hampshire |
|---|---|---|
| American White Pelican | Rare | Occasionally sighted at Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge |
| Double-Crested Cormorant | Common | Great Bay, Lake Winnipesaukee |
| Great Blue Heron | Very Common | Wetlands statewide |
| Great Egret | Common | Great Bay, Coastal wetlands |
| Snowy Egret | Common | Great Bay, Coastal wetlands |
| Green Heron | Common | Wetlands statewide |
| Black-Crowned Night-Heron | Common | Urban and suburban areas near water, Great Bay |
| Mallard | Very Common | Lakes, rivers and wetlands statewide |
| Wood Duck | Very Common | Freshwater marshes, ponds and rivers statewide |
| Blue-Winged Teal | Common | Wetlands statewide |
| Northern Pintail | Uncommon | Wetlands, particularly in the North Country |
| Redhead | Rare | Occasionally seen at Lake Winnipesaukee |
| Ring-Necked Duck | Common | Wetlands statewide during migration seasons |
| Bufflehead | Common | Lakes and large rivers during migration, Great Bay |
| Hooded Merganser | Common | Freshwater lakes and rivers, particularly in the North Country |
| Common Merganser | Common | Large rivers and lakes statewide |
| American Coot | Uncommon | Occasionally seen at Great Bay during migration |
| Sandhill Crane | Rare | Occasionally seen in the North Country |
| American Wigeon | Common | Wetlands statewide during migration |
| Osprey | Uncommon | Nesting near large bodies of water, Merrimack River |
| Common Loon | Common | Lakes in the North Country, especially Lake Winnipesaukee |
| Pied-Billed Grebe | Uncommon | Wetlands statewide, especially Great Bay |
| American Bittern | Uncommon | Freshwater marshes statewide |
Water Bird Species Found in New Hampshire
Where to Spot New Hampshire’s Water Birds
Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Newington: Nestled along the eastern edge of Great Bay, this refuge provides a home for a variety of water birds. Frequent sightings include Mallards, Buffleheads, and the beautiful Snowy Egret (beautiful with it’s wings spread wide).
Lake Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge, Errol: Sharing a border with Maine, this refuge with its shallow ponds offers a rich habitat that attracts a diverse collection of water birds. Look out for the Common Loon, Double-Crested Cormorant, and various species of ducks such as wood ducks (known for their black and white markings on their back) or the Green winged teal.
Prescott Park, Portsmouth: Located on the Piscataqua River, this park’s gardens, docks, and walkways provide excellent spots to watch water birds. The American Coot, the Great Blue Heron, and Green Heron can be spotted here.
Massabesic Lake, Auburn and Manchester: This scenic lake is a popular spot for bird watching as its dense vegetation provides the perfect diet. Water birds like the Ruddy Duck, Great Egret, and Sandhill Crane can often be seen here and sometimes bald eagles preying on small birds.
Odiorne Point State Park, Rye: This coastal park offers tidepools, rocky shores, and a salt marsh, attracting species like the Black-Crowned Night-Heron, Greater Scaup, and Northern Pintail (whose wing feathers are predominantly gray and white). There is a large section of New Hampshire’sGeese in this park, include resident Canada geese, as these very large birds have proven to be very adaptable birds.
The New Hampshire Audubon is a respected organization dedicated to the protection of the state’s natural environment, including its diverse bird species. Their work involves conservation efforts, environmental education, and fostering an appreciation of New Hampshire’s wildlife among residents and visitors. Their efforts extend to water birds, a vital part of the state’s avian biodiversity.
| Neighboring State | Best Spots for Birdwatching |
|---|---|
| Maine Water Birds | Acadia National Park, Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge, Scarborough Marsh |
| Massachusetts Water Birds | Plum Island, Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Cape Cod National Seashore |
| Vermont Water Birds | Dead Creek Wildlife Management Area, Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge, Lake Champlain |