Join the Martha’s Vineyard Bird Club for an early November walk at Long Point Wildlife Refuge, when late fall brings changing light, quieter trails, and a new mix of birds arriving for the winter. With its blend of coastal beach, ponds, and woodlands, Long Point remains one of the Island’s most productive birding locations even as the seasons shift.
Birds we might see include yellow-rumped warbler, palm warbler, white-throated sparrow, savanna “Ipswich” sparrow, and dark-eyed junco in shrubby areas, while wetlands and ponds may host American black duck, mallard, scaup, bufflehead, goldeneye and great blue heron. Along the beach and offshore, look for northern gannet, common eider, scoters, red-throated loon, and other seabirds moving along the coast. Raptors such as northern harrier, red-tailed hawk, and osprey (lingering individuals) may be seen hunting over open areas.
This walk is open to birders of all experience levels and offers a chance to enjoy late-fall birding in a beautiful coastal setting. Dress warmly for wind and cool temperatures, bring binoculars (and a scope if you have one), and be ready for the seasonal shift toward winter birds at Long Point.