Cae May Point: Raptor Capital of North America

Now through the end of November is the height of birdwatching season on the Atlantic Flyway route of migratory birds that goes right over New Jersey's Cape May State Park. The bird-viewing deck along the dunes near the lighthouse at Cape May Point is one of the best spots in North America to see migratory birds. More than 60,000 birds of prey migrate the Atlantic Flyway each autumn.

The spacious park at Cape May Point is called the Raptor Capital of North America because of its bird-watching reputation.

One of the reasons Cape May State Park is so renowned for birdwatching is because many of the birds hover above the park before flying over the large body of water between Cape May and Delaware. On a promising birdwatching day at the park -- after a cold front and with clear skies -- there will already be a dozen birders with cameras and binoculars at the ready before sunrise.

Beginner bird watchers and enthusiasts are invited to Beginning Birding for Adults, every third Saturday of the month at Palmyra Cove Nature Park, where participants learn how to spot the different species of birds while exploring the cove's 250 acres of woodlands and tidal wetlands.
Classes are from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. Cost $10 per person. Read more about hawks at Cape May here.