An easy birding experience is found at the town dock. Look out toward the waters of Icy Strait. Many species of migratory waterfowl and loons can be seen in the strait, along with summering Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Barrow’s Goldeneye, Pelagic Cormorant, Pigeon Guillemot, Marbled Murrelet, Black-legged Kittiwake, Mew Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, and Caspian Tern.

Shorebirds are also common in migration and many remain to nest. Other birds are in the near-shore environment including eagles, Short-eared Owl and Northern Harrier and shorebirds including Western Sandpiper, Short-billed Dowitcher and Long-billed Dowitcher, Black-bellied Plover, Whimbrel and dunlin, and are common on the tidelands during spring and fall migrations. Also, watch for whales including humpback whales and orca.

Directions:

From the Gustavus Road, head east to State Dock Road and drive 1.4 miles to the ferry terminal parking lot.

Birding Resources:

• eBird Hotspot: Gustavus—ferry dock

Species Checklist:

• Gustavus checklist

Other Resources:

• Alaska Department of Fish and Game: Gustavus Dock