Gulf Shores, Alabama is an oasis of fun for beach goers and entertainment seekers alike. However, it’s also an amazing place for those with a passion for birding to set their sights! Boasting a terrain of scenic shorelines, forests, meadows and more, Gulf Shores offers up an array of habitats that are just right for birds to both migrate and thrive year-round. The bird watching conditions here are so prime that the state of Alabama has established a birding trail system for locals and visitors to enjoy. The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail comes equipped with kiosks, interpretive panels, observation towers, visitor guides, maps and more to make the experience comprehensive and enjoyable. The Alabama Coastal Birding Trail is set up as a series of loops that visitors can explore that are situated within and around those areas where birds are found in abundance.
Types of Birds to View
The many marshes, waterways, shorelines, and greenery that make up the Gulf Shores lend themselves seamlessly to a variety of populations of birds available for viewing in this area. Some of the top birds for spotting depending on the time of year you arrive include osprey, king rail, herons, egrets, brown pelicans, and marsh wren as well. Those who take a more professional approach to photographing birds will find that the Alabama Coastal Birding Trail offers up an abundance in the way scenery to capture these magnificent creatures within. Those who are enjoying Alabama birding for fun will want to grab their binoculars and make the most of the amazing pathways and often unexpected finds along the way.
Check Out Orange Beach Loop
One of the most popular Alabama Coastal Birding Trail destinations amongst bird watchers is the Orange Beach Loop. This inviting resort area provides trail access at Perdido Pass just east of AL 59. The access point is integrated into Gulf State Park and is a great place to view everything from Snowy Plover in the dunes. If you’re looking for a stay near your favorite bird-watching spots, be sure to browse our Orange Beach cottage rentals! Click now!
Try the Fort Morgan Loop
If you’re interested in pairing your Alabama Coastal Birding Trail adventure with time in the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, the Fort Morgan Loop is the place to start. Trail access starts at the intersection of AL 59 and AL 180 in Gulf Shores and this route promises to offer a lush landscape and ample options for spotting a variety of bird species along the way.
Book Today
Enjoy every moment of your Gulf Shores adventure and let the team at Poole & Associates handle your vacation rental details. Reach out today to learn more about our many property options in the area, including a private beach rental in Gulf Shores, our amazing Orange Beach beach houses, or our short-term rentals in the area, and to start planning your trip!
