Belmar, New Jersey, is more than an incredible beach town — it's also a thriving ecosystem where coastal birds live in harmony with the locals. For birdwatchers, photographers and nature lovers alike, the shorelines and lakes of Belmar offer the chance to see a variety of fascinating bird species in their natural habitats.
In this post, we'll explore some of the most prolific coastal birds you can spot in Belmar, including the Great Blue Heron, Great Egret, American Oystercatcher, Sandpiper, Mute Swan, and the Double-Crested cormorant.
1. Great Blue Heron: Graceful Giant
The Great Blue Heron is one of the most majestic coastal birds in Belmar, often seen wading in shallow waters of Silver Lake and Lake Como. Standing over four feet tall, this heron is hard to miss with its slate-blue feathers and long neck. With their exceptional patience, these birds hunt fish by standing still and waiting to strike with their sharp beaks.
Great Blue Herons can frequently be seen along the banks of Belmar’s rivers and marshes. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to spot them as they hunt in the quiet, undisturbed waters.
2. Great Egret: Elegant Hunter
The Great Egret is a striking bird with its sleek white plumage and long, slender neck. Known for its graceful movements, the Great Egret is often seen stalking fish, frogs, and other small prey in the shallow waters of Belmar's brackish waters. Its black legs and yellow beak make it easy to distinguish from other egrets and herons in the area. (The snowy egret, for example, has a black beak and yellow feet that remind me of Big Bird from Sesame Street.)
Great Egrets are commonly found in marshes and estuaries, making Shark River Inlet and Silver Lake perfect spots to observe them. Their poised hunting style and stunning white feathers make them a favorite among birdwatchers.
3. American Oystercatcher: Shellfish Specialist
With its striking black and white plumage and long, bright orange beak, the American Oystercatcher is one of the most recognizable shorebirds in Belmar. True to their name, these birds feed on shellfish like oysters, clams, and mussels. They use their specialized beak to pry open the shells, making them fascinating to watch as they forage along the shoreline.
Oystercatchers are often found on sandy beaches and tidal flats. Their unique appearance and vocal calls make them easy to spot during a walk along the beach.
4. Sandpipers: Busy Bees Of The Beach
Sandpipers are petite, energetic birds that always make me smile when I see them flitting along the shoreline. These birds are frequently seen running along the water's edge, quickly darting in and out of the surf foraging for sand crabs and small invertebrates. Watching a flock of Sandpipers scurry across the sand is one of the joys of a day spent on Belmar’s beaches. These birds are particularly active during low tide, when their food sources are exposed. It's hard to photograph them in a group because they move so fast!!
5. Double-Crested Cormorant: Diving Expert
The double-crested cormorant is a sleek, black waterbird known for its expert diving skills. Often seen perched on docks or pilings with wings spread wide to dry, these birds are adept fishers, diving deep into the water to catch their breakfast. Their long, slender neck and hooked beak make them well-suited for hunting underwater.
Double-crested cormorants are frequently spotted along the Belmar Marina and Shark River Inlet, where they can be seen swimming or resting on the tops of piers. I’ve also spotted them in Silver Lake during my morning walks. Their striking silhouette and dynamic behavior add another layer of fascination for birdwatchers.
6. Mute Swan: Majestic Beauty
The Mute Swan is an elegant bird known for its pure white feathers and gracefully curved neck. Unlike other birds, the Mute Swan is often seen gliding silently across Lake Como; hence, the name "mute" because of its relative quietness. Though it rarely makes noise, it may hiss if threatened. These birds are also known for their strong territorial behavior, especially during nesting season.
Mute Swans are commonly spotted at Silver Lake in Belmar and Lake Como in the nearby namesake town. Their presence adds a touch of grace and tranquility to the local waters, making them a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Why Belmar Is A Birdwatcher’s Dream
Belmar’s rich coastal habitat is the perfect environment for these bird species. With its blend of sandy shores, salt marshes, and tidal flats, the town provides essential feeding and nesting grounds for both resident and migratory birds. During migration seasons, Belmar becomes a vital stopover for many bird species traveling along the Atlantic Flyway.
Beyond its natural beauty, Belmar also benefits from local conservation efforts aimed at protecting these birds and their habitats. These initiatives ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy birdwatching while contributing to the preservation of the area's unique wildlife.
RELATED: 8 Ways To Enjoy The Water In Belmar
Best Spots For Birdwatching In Belmar
To catch a glimpse of these amazing coastal birds, head to some of Belmar's prime birdwatching locations:
Shark River Inlet: Known for its marshy edges and tidal pools, this spot is great for seeing Great Egrets, Herons, and Cormorants.
Silver Lake and Lake Como: Quiet havens for birdwatchers and walkers alike, these lakes attract a variety of species year-round, including Mallard Ducks and Canada Geese.
Belmar Marina: A good place to spot larger wading birds like the Great Blue Heron and the Double-Crested Cormorant as they fish along the riverbanks. Also a great spot to watch the sunset in Belmar!
When To Spot Coastal Birds In Belmar NJ
For the best birdwatching experience, plan your visit to Belmar during early mornings or late afternoons. These times are when the birds are most active and the lighting is ideal for photography. Additionally, visiting during migration seasons — spring and fall — offers the chance to see even more species as they pass through the area. Spring is also baby chick season for some of these water birds.
Conclusion
The coastal birds of Belmar, New Jersey, are an integral part of the local ecosystem, adding to the natural beauty and biodiversity of this charming beach town. From the impressive Great Blue Heron to the lively Sandpipers and the expert-diving Double-Crested Cormorant, each bird offers a unique glimpse into the world of water birds. Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, Belmar’s coastline provides the perfect backdrop for observing these incredible creatures.
So next time you're in Belmar, take a moment to appreciate the avian wildlife — it's a rewarding experience that always makes me feel grateful for the opportunity to experience all the natural beauty around us here at the Jersey Shore.
© Christine Cardellino, Belmar Beachcomber Blog, and www.VacationInBelmar.com, 2017 to present. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material, including photography, without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. If you wish to use a photograph from this site, full and clear credit must be given to Belmar Beachcomber Blog and www.VacationInBelmar.com/belmar-beachcomber-blog with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Live Like A Local: Rent A Belmar Beach House
Day trips down the shore are fun, but it's even better to rent a beach house for the week to experience everything wonderful about the Belmar area. For couples, solo adults and small families, the two-bedroom Blue Hydrangea Cottage rental in Belmar, New Jersey, is the perfect getaway place. The home sleeps up to four people and is consistently rated five stars for cleanliness, amenities and location. Learn more at www.vacationinbelmar.com.
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