[Tweeters] OT -- New Orleans birding recommendations

[Stacey T via Tweeters]

Hi Trileigh and Tweets,

My husband and I were in New Orleans 3 weeks ago for a long weekend of birding. We were amazed at the number of excellent birding spots within city limits. Our favorite spots were:

City Park, Scout Island — This area has a large meadow surrounded by forest and water. There’s a nice trail around the island that will take you through all of the different habitats. We saw several hawk species, at least 8 different warbler species, woodpeckers, herons, tanagers, grosbeaks, and bunting, among many other things. Dense birdlife, to say the least. Lots of other birders here too. 

City Park, Couturie Forest — Mostly forested with good views of the surrounding water. Similar sightings to Scout island, although we saw more vireo and tanger species here.

Audubon Park, Audubon Park Trail —A bit more urban than City Park, similar feel to Greenlake with paved trails through grassy areas, scattered trees, and views of waterways. Bird Island is inaccessible to people but viewable from the trail. Lots of ducks, warblers, ibis, anhinga, and egrets.

Bayou Sauvage, Maxent Levee — A short boardwalk through the bayou. It was scorching mid-day but beautiful morning and evening. Egrets, woodpeckers, warblers, and much more. Keep your eyes on the sky for flyovers from spoonbills, glossy/white-faced ibis, and pelicans. 

Bayou Sauvage, Lake Levee — An out and back hike, the trail is next to wetlands on either side but good visibility is often obstructed by trees or the levee itself. If on foot, bring a scope (this was the only place on this list where we felt like we really needed it). There is a boat launch at the start of the trail, so we were wondering if a kayak was the better way to go here. Also, you will need an SUV to get to the trailhead as the dirt road was quite potholed in the beginning, a 4x4 might be required if it’s been raining. This is a well-known hotspot among locals. 

We were only there for 4 days but met several birders in various locations throughout City Park, all of them very friendly and eager to pass on the days unusual/rare sightings.


Enjoy your trip!


Stacey 
Magnolia, Seattle