Experience the height of fall migration with the Martha’s Vineyard Bird Club on an early October walk in Aquinnah, one of the Island’s best vantage points for watching birds on the move. With strong coastal winds, open fields, and dramatic cliffs, Aquinnah is a magnet for migrating raptors, late songbirds, and coastal species.
Birds we might see include passing raptors such as sharp-shinned hawk, Cooper’s hawk, red-tailed hawk, Northern harrier, merlin, and peregrine falcon riding the updrafts along the cliffs. Shrubby areas and field edges may host Cape May warbler, palm warbler, arriving white-throated sparrows, dark-eyed juncos, and lingering Eastern bluebird. Offshore and along the shore we’ll scan for northern gannet, scoters, common eider, and migrating loons. With luck, an early snow bunting or other late-season surprise could appear.
This walk is ideal for birders of all experience levels who enjoy big views and dynamic birding. Dress for wind and changing weather, bring binoculars (and a scope if you have one), and prepare for some of the most exciting migration watching Martha’s Vineyard has to offer.