More than 400 species of birds visit or live in Essex County Massachusetts for all or part of the year. Nearly 130 of these species have nested in the county. More here.

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Merrimack River Islands, Amesbury

• Species of Note: Bald eagles in the winter. Common and Barrow's goldeneyes, scaup, mergansers, other ducks in the winter.
• Habitats: Largely coniferous wooded islands in the Merrimack River that provide prime bald eagle roosting and feeding habitat in the winter due to presence of open water. Open water channels between the islands and in the main flowage of the river are excellent for ducks.
• Viewing Information: Best viewing areas: Deer Island and its two bridges (Chain Bridge and Essex-Merrimac Bridge), looking west toward the I-95 bridge or east toward Eagle Island; the north end of Savory St (off Merrimac St. in Newburyport); and Cashman Park (look for the state boat ramp sign at the intersection of Merrimack St. and Sally Snyder Way in Newburyport.) Because Eagle, Carr and Ram Islands are State Wildlife Sancutaries, fishing, hunting and camping on these three islands is prohibited.
• Location: Amesbury, Salisbury, and Newburyport
• Managed by: Deer Island is partially private, but the east end is owned by the Town of Amesbury and has a parking lot. Eagle, Carr, and Ram Islands are owned and maintained by Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife as Wildlife Sanctuaries.
• Hours: Daylight
• Website: www.mass.gov/masswildlife
• Directions: Viewing locations along Merrimac St. in Newburyport and the Merrimack River bridges between Amesbury and Newburyport (see above)
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Woodsom Farm, Amesbury

• Species of Note: Bobolinks, rock doves, redwing blackbirds, mourning doves, meadowlarks and barn swallows. There were 41 different species (inlcuding unidentified warblers) seen on a June bird count.
• Habitats: Grasslands, marsh, hayfields, drumlin hills, pasture land.
• Viewing Information: Multi use Town owned parcel.
• Size: 370 acres
• Location: 222 Lions Mouth Road, Amesbury
• Managed by: Town of Amesbury.
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk
• Website: www.ci.amesbury.ma.us
• Directions: Approximately 2 miles east from the Amesbury's Market Square on Lions Mouth Road.
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Ward Reservation, Andover
(Holt Hill)

• Species of Note: Breeding songbirds are the feature. The mixed forest includes much beech, yellow birch, and hemlock, insuring a good number of Canadian-zone species. The bog attracts swamp-related species like Canada warblers and northern waterthrushes. The open hilltop is also a good hawkwatch site in fall.
• Habitats: The Ward Reservation features three hills, the highest of which, Holt Hill (420 feet), is the highest point in Essex County. It offers a magnificent view south over Essex County to the Boston skyline and the Blue Hills. The tops of Holt and Boston Hills are open and covered with lowbush blueberry. The habitat is mostly mixed forest with 13 miles of trails and one of the highest concentrations of American chestnut saplings in the county. At the base of the hill near the parking lot is one of the few quaking bogs in the entire region, with a trail that includes a 700-foot boardwalk.
• Viewing Information: The trails are moderately difficult, but the distance to the top of Holt Hill is only about half a mile. At the top, in addition to the rewarding view, are the "Solstice Stones," laid out to show the cardinal compass points and the points of the solstices and equinoxes. The combination of unfragmented forest, open hilltops, and quaking bog offers a terrific variety of wildlife habitats. Trail maps are available at the parking lot. No facilities.
• Size: 695 acres
• Special Recognition: Bay Circuit Trail Sections
• Location: Prospect Road, Andover
• Managed by: The Trustees of Reservations
• Hours: 8am to Sunset
• Phone: 978-356-4351
• Website: www.thetrustees.org
• Directions: From I-93 exit 41, take Rt. 125 north 5 miles. Turn right on Prospect Rd. and follow for 0.3 mile to parking on right. From I-495 exit 42, take Rt. 114 east 1.7 miles. Turn right on Rt. 125 SOUTH and follow for 1.6 miles. Turn left on Prospect Rd. and continue as above.
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Bald Hill Reservation, Boxford
(Crooked Pond)(Boxford State Forest)

• Species of Note:  Nesting barred owls, pileated woodpeckers, winter wrens, northern and Louisiana waterthrushes, yellow-throated and blue-headed vireos, red-shouldered hawks, and northern goshawks (usually one pair) are the main attractions of this wonderful reservation, along with woodland species commonly seen anywhere in the county. Counts of red-eyed vireos, scarlet tanagers, ovenbirds, black-throated green warblers, brown creepers, and red-breasted nuthatches can be impressive here. Common ravens are sometimes seen or heard and may nest in the area. You will certainly run into other birders at Crooked Pond in April, May, and June, who will happily regale you with their sightings and help you with directions to various trails. This is one of the best places in the county to spot a fisher, though it doesn't happen very often. 
• Habitats:  The Bald Hill Reservation is a combination of parcels covering parts of three towns and owned by two state agencies, the town of Boxford, Essex County Greenbelt, and other non-profits. It is huge, over 2000 acres, and has some of the best Canadian-zone habitat in the county. The Crooked Pond area, where most birders go, is best for nesting birds because it has much hemlock forest, a wild pond bordered by shrub-swamp and ringed by trails, and, on the north side of Bald Hill just west of the pond, one of the county's few stands of sugar maple. The combination of pond, red maple swamps, mixed-forest hillsides, and true northern hardwood habitat makes this area hard to beat for breeding birds.   
• Viewing Information:  There are no facilities in the reservation, but the breeding-season birding is as good as it gets; this is one of the most popular interior birding spots in the county. Crooked Pond is about a quarter-mile walk from the road, AFTER you pass a smaller pond where the outlet stream crosses the trail. Biting insects are greedy after mid-May, so come prepared. Wear boots suitable for wading in shallow water and mud, as beavers have dammed the pond outlet and inlet streams and portions of the main trail are usually flooded. If you can get across the inlet stream at the back of the pond by walking across the beaver dam, the trails on and around Bald Hill are open to you, and these trails are largely dry. If you don't have a trail map, study the map on the kiosk so you can remember how to get to and around Crooked Pond. Trail maps are usually available at Bradley Palmer State Park in Topsfield or Harold Parker State Forest in North Andover. Hunting is allowed on this property. Visitors to this area from October through December should wear blaze orange cap or vest for visibility. Statewide, hunting is prohibited on Sundays.  
• Size: 2000+ acres
• Special Recognition: Massachusetts Important Bird Area
• Location: Middleton Road, Boxford
• Managed by: Mass. Department of Conservation and Recreation; Mass Division of Fisheries and Wildlife; Town of Boxford; Essex County Greenbelt Association
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk
• Phone: 978-686-3391 (DCR); 978-263-4347 (MassWildlife); 978-768-7241 (ECGA)
• Website: www.mass.gov/masswildlife and www.mass.gov/dcr and www.ecga.org
• Directions: From I-95 take exit 51 for Endicott St., Boxford. From exit ramp turn west for a very short distance (just across the interstate if you were driving north on 95) to Middleton Rd. Turn right (north) and drive about 2 miles to a large dirt pullout on left with a kiosk for the reservation, which shows a trail map. This is where birders park for Crooked Pond. About half a mile farther north is a second pulloff on left beside a white house; there is room here for two cars. This is a good place from which to explore the northernmost trails.
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Endicott Park, Danvers

• Species of Note: Great opportunities for the novice birder, with common sightings of a camera-friendly red-tailed hawk. Other species include eastern bluebirds and Baltimore orieoles in spring, fields of foraging swallows in summer, along with resident and migrating water birds, such as Canada geese, mallards, black ducks, wood ducks, the occasional hooded merganser, great blue herons, and great egrets. With 2005 came the first ruffed grouse to have been spotted in the park's history.
• Habitats: Open fields and meadows, marsh wetlands, ponds, cultivated gardens, and multigenerationsal woodlands with softwood and hard-wood areas.
• Viewing Information: The Park contains over five miles of managed trails through a variety of habitats. Many of the trails are handicapped-accessable with platforms overlooking two of the water bodies. In warmer months, parking fees (per vehicle per day) apply for the weekends and certain holidays: $1.00 for Danvers residents and $3.00 for non-residents.
• Size: 165 acres
• Special Recognition: Centered around the historical area once owned by William Endicott, the park is currently run by the Town of Danvers, with Glen Magna Farms, owned by the Danvers Historical Society, located within the parks boundaries. Preservation of the historical land is a primary function of the park, which directly results in great birding opportunities throughout the 165 acres.
• Location: 57 Forest Street, Danvers
• Managed by: Town of Danvers
• Hours: 9am to sunset
• Phone: 978-774-6518
• Website: www.endicottpark.com
• Directions: From Rt. 128 in Danvers, take Rt. 62 west. Follow Rt. 62 for approximately two miles. Take a left onto Forest Street. Continue for 0.4 miles, Endicott Park is on the right. From Rt. 1 or I-95 in Danvers, take Rt. 62 east. From Rt. 62 take a quick right onto Forest Street (just after the Danvers Animal Hospital). Continue on Forest Street for 0.4 miles to Endicott Park on the right.
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Cox Reservation, Essex

• Species of Note:  Grassland birds using the hayfields include American woodcock, bobolink, and eastern meadowlark. Nest boxes are used by tree swallows and eastern bluebirds. Many migrant songbirds can be found in the fields and hedgerows. The salt marshes attract the full range of associated species: herons, cormorants, gulls, terns, shorebirds, and raptors. Prominent among the latter are ospreys, northern harriers, and turkey vultures. The shorebirds are best seen at low tide from the Clamhouse Landing on the Essex River at the back of the property, sometimes at point-blank range if one sits quietly on the bench or the rocks.  
• Habitats:  The Cox Reservation is open habitat with an old orchard, hayfields, hedgerows, rocky outcrops, salt marsh, and a landing on the Essex River with a small cedar grove. The property offers outstanding views of the Great Marsh, some of the marsh islands, nearby historic farm houses, and the back side of Ipswich (Crane) Beach.
• Viewing Information: Study the trail map on the kiosk at the parking lot; the trails are few and easy to follow on this small property. The road leading back from the barns is part of an obvious loop trail that circles the main hayfield and offers views of the Great Marsh to the east. At the back of this loop, only about 100 yards from the parking lot, the main road forks. Follow the signs, stay to the left, and take that road to the landing behind the cedar grove. Stay off the hayfield on the left and the private properties on either side of the landing, but enjoy it as long as you wish. When you return, you might want to visit the office in the white house (weekdays), where you will be welcomed and can request information on Greenbelt's programs to preserve valuable land in Essex County as well as various social and artistic events.   
• Size: 27 acres
• Special Recognition: Great Marsh Important Bird Area; Western Hemispheric Shore Bird Reserve Network Regional Site; Headquarters of the Essex County Greenbelt Association, the principal county land trust.
• Location: 82 Eastern Avenue, Essex
• Managed by: Essex County Greenbelt Association
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk
• Phone:  978-768-7241
• Website: www.ecga.org
• Directions: From Rt. 128 take Exit 15, School St., for 3 miles north toward Essex. It becomes Southern Ave. in Essex and ends at a blinker where it intersects Rt. 133. Turn right on 133 (Eastern Ave.) and go half a mile just past a mall on the right. The Greenbelt driveway is the last one on the left before Farnham's Clams and the salt marsh. Look for the Greenbelt sign, as this is the organization's headquarters. Drive around to the back of the house to park.
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Stavros Reservation, Essex

• Species of Note: The top of Whites Hill is an excellent place to view herons and raptors in the vast salt marsh before you, especially with a spotting scope. Many herons use the Essex marshes for feeding on their way to and from their nesting colonies on offshore islands. The hill also attracts songbirds in migration. A drive down Island Rd. brings one to salt pans where herons and shorebirds can be viewed much more closely.
• Habitats: Most of reservation is salt marsh, but the feature is Whites Hill, a coastal drumlin, which offers spectacular views of Crane Beach and Cape Ann as well as surrounding salt marsh.
• Viewing Information: There is no entry fee. The walk up the hill is relatively steep but short. The view is worth the walk, and the reason for going there. The trail forms a loop, which offers the chance for a variety of songbirds in migration. Several cars can park along the side of the road. There are no facilities, but picnicking is allowed on the property. Island Rd. is very narrow and dead-ends at a boat landing (not public). Stopping by the salt pans is possible, but there is no parking along the road except at the Stavros Reservation.
• Size: 74 acres
• Special Recognition: Massachusetts Important Bird Area; Great Marsh Important Bird Area; Western Hemispheric Shore Bird Reserve Network Regional Site.
• Location: Island Road, Essex
• Managed by: The Trustees of Reservations
• Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
• Phone: 978-356-4351
• Website: www.thetrustees.org
• Directions: From Rt. 128 Exit 15, take School St. north (becomes Southern Ave.) for 3.1 miles until it ends at Rt. 133. Turn left and follow 133 through Essex center for 2 miles. Right after Cape Ann golf course, turn right on Island Rd. Park immediately on right at sign. From Ipswich, take Rt. 133 east where it splits from Rt. 1A for about 3 miles to Island Rd. on left.
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Eastern Point Wildlife Sanctuary, Gloucester

• Species of Note: Warblers and other neotropical migrants during spring and fall. Loons, seaducks, alcids in the winter.
• Habitats: The sanctuary provides amazing coastal vistas from the parking area and is a hot spot for butterflies and seabirds at particular times of the year. In the fall, migrating monarch butterflies may be seen. Throughout different seasons, look for shorebirds, loons, sea ducks, and other coastal birds in Gloucester Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. Although the sanctuary does not have a formal trail system, the coastal view is worth the visit. Parking is limited to the lot at the lighthouse. Just a short walk up the road from the parking area is the entrance to the Eastern Point woodlands, which provides a short loop trail through deciduous forest. The woodland entrance is across from a cul de sac named Aileen Terrace. Trails may be wet in spring.
• Viewing Information: Please Note: Eastern Point is a private community. Mass Audubon members are welcome to drive to and explore the sanctuary lands and park in the lot at the Lighthouse. Please have your Mass Audubon membership card available to ensure entry.
• Size: 53 acres
• Location: Eastern Point Boulevard, Gloucester
• Managed by: Mass Audubon Society
• Hours: Woodland trails: open everyday, dawn to dusk. Note: Parking lot gate is open daily, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Phone: 978-887-9264
• Website: www.massaudubon.org
• Directions: Take Rt I-95 to Rt 128 north. Take exit 9 (Gloucester) where Rt 128 ends. At the traffic light, continue straight ahead to Eastern Point Boulevard (stone pillars on either side of the road). Take a right onto Eastern Point Boulevard (private way) and follow it to the parking lot by Eastern Point Lighthouse and Dog Bar Breakwater.
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Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, Gloucester

• Species of Note: Pelagic (seafaring) birds abound—from storm-petrels and shearwaters to gannets, gulls and alcids. Watch for quick fly-bys or rafts (flocks) of birds gathering on the ocean’s surface.
• Habitats: On the surface, Stellwagen Bank appears identical to the surrounding waters of the Gulf of Maine. Underwater, however, a 117 square mile plateau rises from the ocean floor to an average depth of 100 feet. This produces an upwelling of ocean currents and nutrients that result in a rich bloom of plankton, the foundation of the marine food web. Numerous resident and migratory sea birds feed on the plankton- eating fish.
• Size: 117 square miles
• Special Recognition: Massachusetts Wildlife Viewing Site
• Location: Atlantic Ocean, 3 miles east of Cape Ann (Gloucester)
• Managed by: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
• Phone: 781-545-8026
• Website: stellwagen.noaa.gov/
• Directions: Whale watching cruises and fishing charters (from Cape Ann and Newburyport) are the best public means of enjoying Stellwagen Bank. Many whale watching cruises employ naturalists who identify birds (and whales) and discuss this unique ocean habitat. Information about whale watch tours and the ethics of birding on the water can be found here.
  
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Crane Pond Wildlife Management Area, Groveland

• Species of Note: Spring-migrating waterfowl may be found on Crane Pond and Little Crane Pond. Woodcock, ruffed grouse, and wild turkey can be heard during courtship activities in early spring. The entire area holds a wide array of nesting songbirds in both uplands and wetlands.
• Habitats: Low rolling pine and mix hardwoods on hills and uplands. Buttonbush, alder and leatherleaf dominate Crane pond and marshlands. High tension line provides open shrub habitats. A series of openings in the forested areas have been maintained by forestry operations for biodiversity.
• Viewing Information: WMA occupies Groveland, Newbury, Georgetown and W. Newbury. Unmarked trails and old woods roads. Crane Pond (Groveland) stocked with trout. 2 other ponds and 2 brooks provide other fishing and bird viewing opportunities. It is also a great place for a wide range of breeding songbirds. Since hunting is allowed on this property, visitors to this area during October through December should wear blaze orange cap or vest for visibility. Statewide, hunting is prohibited on Sundays.
• Size: 2123 acres
• Location: Bear Hill Road, Groveland
• Managed by: Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
• Phone: 978-263-4347 (Acton Office)
• Website: www.mass.gov/masswildlife
• Directions: Multiple parking areas in Groveland (Little Road, Bear Hill Rd) Newbury (Moody St) and Georgetown (Little Rd)
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Veasey Memorial Park, Groveland

• Species of Note: In the fields, you can see bobolinks, bluebirds, purple martin, tree swallow, red-tailed hawks, song sparrow, American kestrel, chimney swift, killdeer; eastern towhee, robins, eastern phoebe, night hawk, house finch and gold finch. In the Woodland, you can see black-capped chickadee, tufted titmouse, white-breasted nuthatch, house wren, wood thrush, red-eyed vireo, pileated woodpecker, northern flicker, downy woodpecker, hairy woodpecker, red-bellied woodpecker, blue-winged warbler, black-and-white warbler, black-throated green warbler, oven bird, roase-breasted grosbeak, indigo bunting, chipping sparrow, pine warbler, eastern wood pewee, and brown-eyed junco. By the pond and shore, you can find Eastern kingbird, belted kingfisher, great blue heron, snowy egret, black ducks, green heron, American bittern, red-breasted merganser, bufflehead, yellow-throated warbler, yellow warbler, northern oriole, palm warbler, and gray catbird. You may also have a good chane to observe many species of butterflies and dragonflies around.
• Habitats: There is Field, Woodland and Pond as well as Edge Habitats.
• Viewing Information: Since Veasey Park includes several major habitats, including: field, woodland, varied edges, pond and wetlands, the opportunities for birding is quite good. In addition, adjacent marshes and vernal pools as well as the nearby Meadow Pond Conservation Area, helps to increase the diversity of bird.
• Size: 47 acres
• Location: 201 Washington Street, Groveland
• Managed by: Town of Groveland/Conservation Commission
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk
• Phone: 978-521-9345
• Website: www.veaseypark.org
• Directions: From Route 95, take exit53 onto Route 133. Follow through downtown Georgetown, take left onto Salem Street (at Tea Garden and Groveland Gas). Take left onto Washington Street. After large hill on right, take right up long driveway to Veasey Park, pass lower parking lot and continue to main building. Principal entrance used is past the porch entrance. The door will have a lamppost and a series of white mailboxes. Ring bell if locked. From I-495, take the Haverhill exit for Route 125 Ward Hill. Travel through Bradford Common, bear right. Follow Salem Street past Bradford ski. After Carter's Ice Cream, continue to follow street for a little over a mile, take right onto Washington Street at Price-Rite Auto. Veasey Park is about 1/4 mile up on your right. Take right up long driveway, pass lower parking lot and contine to main building. Principal entrance used is past the porch entrance. The door will have a lamppost and a series of while mailboxes. Ring bell if locked.
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Tattersall Farm, Haverhill

• Species of Note:: Grassland species in the hayfields, neotropical migrants in the hedgerows and woodlands and along the streams, raptors at any time.
• Viewing Information: Please respect the privacy of the caretaker's residence and outbuildings by walking in designated public access paths only.
• Size: 150 acres
• Location: 542 North Broadway, Haverhill
• Managed by: City of Haverhill
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk
• Phone: 978-374-2334
• Website: ://www.ci.haverhill.ma.us/departments/econ/conservation/trails/tattersall.htm
• Directions: From I-495, take Exit 50 (Rt-97 South -Haverhill/Groveland), then turn left onto Broadway/Rt-97. After 0.2 miles, turn left onto Monument Street. After another 0.2 miles, turn left onto North Broadway. Tattersall Farm is 1.1 miles ahead on the left.
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Appleton Farms and Appleton Farms Grass Rides, Ipswich

• Species of Note: Grassland-nesting birds (bobolinks, meadowlarks, savannah sparrows) on the farm proper, and a wide variety of forest-nesting songbirds and woodpeckers in the Grass Rides. Both are good for raptors in winter, with owls often roosting in conifer groves.
• Habitats: The farm is actively managed for dairy cows, community-supported agriculture, and grassland-nesting birds, featuring hayfields, pastures, and small woodlots. The Grass Rides is a mixed-forest habitat with numerous swamps and over 5 miles of carriage paths.
• Viewing Information: Both properties are accessible from the Highland St. parking area on well-marked trails. Dogs permitted in Grass Rides only, with a "Green Dogs" permit. The farm has both foot and bridle trails and sponsors many agricultural, natural history, educational, and social events, including occasional bird walks. The Grass Rides trails are widely used for cross-country skiing. Restrooms available only at the farm buildings.
• Size: 658 acres (farm proper); 259 acres (grass rides)
• Special Recognition: Massachusetts Important Bird Area (Farm Proper); Bay Circuit Trail Links (Both)  
• Location: Rt. 1A, Ipswich and Hamilton (The Farm); Highland Street, Hamilton (The Grass Rides)
• Managed by: The Trustees of Reservations
• Hours: 8 am to sunset
• Phone: 978-356-5728
• Website: www.thetrustees.org
• Directions: From Ipswich center, take Topsfield Rd. west @ 1.5 miles to Mill Rd. Turn left on Mill Rd., which becomes Highland St. in Hamilton. Proceed @ 1.5 miles to parking lot (20 cars) on left, just before Cutler Rd. From Hamilton, take Rt. 1A north @ 2 miles to Cutler Rd. Turn left and take it 2.2 miles to end at Highland St. Turn right, then right again into same parking lot, which serves both of these contiguous properties.
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Crane Beach, Ipswich

• Species of Note:  Nesting piping plovers and least terns; nesting bank swallows; full range of migrants, especially shorebirds; wintering raptors and pine-forest species.
• Habitats: Ocean beach, dunes, thickets, and maritime pitch-pine forest. A barrier peninsula protecting the Essex River estuary.
• Viewing Information: Elevated boardwalks lead from parking lot to beach, some with viewing platforms. Dune interior has 5+ miles of marked trails, all on sandy soil. Horses can be ridden along beach in winter. Dogs prohibited April 1-September 30.
• Size: 1234 acres
• Special Recognition: Massachusetts Important Bird Area; Massachusetts Wildlife Viewing Site; Link In Bay Circuit Trail
• Location: Argilla Road, Ipswich   
• Managed by: The Trustees of Reservations
• Hours: 8 am to sunset
• Phone: 978-356-4351
• Website: www.thetrustees.org
• Directions: From Ipswich center, take 1A south/133 east a few hundred yards to the South Green. Turn left on Argilla Rd. at sign for Crane Beach. Drive @ 4 miles to end of road and entrance gate to beach (fee required for non-Ipswich residents; discounts for TTOR members).
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Willowdale State Forest, Ipswich

• Species of Note: Willowdale is best for breeding birds, from May through July. Birds typical of transition-zone mixed forest nest here, such as barred and great horned owls, Cooper's and (rarely) sharp-shinned hawks, hairy and red-bellied woodpeckers, eastern wood pewees, great crested flycatchers, veeries, wood and hermit thrushes, red-eyed vireos, eastern towhees, ovenbirds, black-throated green, pine, Canada, and black-and-white warblers, common yellowthroats, northern waterthrushes, scarlet tanagers, rose-breasted grosbeaks, red-breasted nuthatches, and brown creepers, in addition to the commoner woodland species. The beaver marsh has hosted nesting pied-billed grebes, least bitterns, great blue herons, wood ducks, and possibly hooded mergansers in recent years.
• Habitats: Willowdale is a typical Essex County mixed-forest habitat with a combination of pine-oak-hickory upland and red maple swamp. There are also hemlock stands, and in the southwest corner near the intersection of Rt. 1 and East St. lies a large beaver marsh. Miles of trails with numbered intersections allow access to all corners of this large, unfragmented forest.
• Viewing Information: Open year round for a variety of recreational activities. Hunting is allowed on the state forest property located west of route 1. Visitors to this area from October through December should wear blaze orange cap or vest for visibility. Statewide, hunting is prohibited on Sundays.
• Size:  2400 acres (both sections combined)
• Location: Ipswich, MA 01938
• Managed by: Mass. Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Hours:  Dawn to Dusk
• Phone:  978-887-5931
• Website: www.mass.gov/dcr/parts/northeast/wild.htm
• Directions:  The forest lies on both sides of U.S. 1 in Ipswich. The larger and more accessible part is the eastern section. From Rt. 1 drive east on either Ipswich Rd. in Topsfield to enter the southern part of the forest or Linebrook Rd. in Ipswich to enter the northern part. Both these intersections have traffic lights. On Ipswich Rd. drive about 2 miles to the Topsfield/Ipswich town line and park beside the road at obvious pulloffs. Willowdale State Forest is on the left; Bradley Palmer State Park on the right. Trails go in all directions; trail maps for both properties are available at the headquarters of BPSP off Asbury St in Topsfield, which you will pass on your right as you drive east on Ipswich Rd. On Linebrook Rd., which is about 2 miles north of Ipswich Rd. on Rt. 1, drive east about 1 mile to obvious pulloffs on the right opposite farm fields. Here too several trails lead into the forest.
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Marblehead Neck Wildlife Sanctuary, Marblehead

• Species of Note: Neotropical migrants in spring
• Habitats: The sanctuary is located in the center of the “Neck,” a peninsula that extends into Massachusetts Bay. Its swamp, thickets, and woodlands are a haven for migratory birds, especially warblers, during the spring and fall migrations. This sanctuary is a mecca for birders; the discovery of rarities is not uncommon.
• Size: 16 acres
• Location:  Risley Road, Marblehead
• Managed by: Mass Audubon Society
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk
• Phone: 978-887-9264
• Website: www.massaudubon.org
• Directions: Take Rt I-95 to Rt 128 to exit 25 (Rt 114). Follow Rt 114 east through Peabody and Salem into Marblehead. In Marblehead, continue through three sets of traffic lights. At the next traffic light (at the fire station), turn right onto Ocean Avenue. Go straight through the next traffic light and continue past Devereaux Beach on your right and across the causeway onto Marblehead Neck. At the end of the causeway, stay to the right (while still on Ocean Avenue). Follow Ocean Avenue another 0.5 miles and take a left onto Risley Road. The sanctuary is at the end of Risley Road, and parking is to the left.
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Nevins Bird Sanctuary, Methuen

• Species of Note:Red Tail Hawk, Great Blue Heron, Green Heron, American Bittern, Killdeer, Spotted Sandpiper, Wood Duck, Mallard,  Hairy and Downy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Chimney Swift, American Goldfinch, Eastern Kingbird, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Cedar Waxwing; occasionally Great Egret, Great Horned Owl, Black Duck, Cormorant and Osprey.
• Habitats:Woodland, Marsh, Riverbank
• Viewing Information:No facilities at this location. Town owned  parcel bisected by the Methuen Rail Trail and bordering the Spicket River. Trails are overgrown and sometimes interrupted by trees downed by active beaver.  Many waterfowl, marsh and shorebirds can be better viewed from the water.  A Great Blue Heron rookery on the Spicket River can be best viewed from a point on the rail trail a quarter mile north from the Sanctuary. Beware poison ivy and deer ticks. Improvements to trail access is planned.
• Size:over 18 acres, town-owed, bordering many more acres of conservation lands.    
• Location:Pine Street (at the end of Pine Street) or Hampshire Street (directly behind the Quinn Health and Safety building (Police Station) on Hampshire Street).
• Managed by:Conservation Office, City of Methuen
• Hours:  Dawn to Dusk     
• Phone:Methuen City Hall: 978-983-8650   
• Website:www.methuenrailtrail.org/nevins-sanctuary
• Directions: Follow Rt I-93 to exit 47 (Pelham Street). Follow Pelham Street towards downtown Methuen. At Five Corners intersection, take slight left onto Lowell Street, and first left onto Pine Stet. Continue to the end of Pine Street. Parking is available along the railbed.
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Nahant Thicket Wildlife Sanctuary, Nahant

• Species of Note: Neotropical migrants in spring and fall, seabirds in the area in the winter
• Habitats: A four acre patch of red maple swamp and brushy tangles along Nahant's spectacular coastline.   
• Size:  4 acres     
• Location: Furbush Street, Nahant     
• Managed by: Mass Audubon Society
• Hours:  Dawn to Dusk     
• Phone:  978-887-9264    
• Website: www.massaudubon.org
• Directions: Follow Rt I-95 to Rt 128 to exit 44B (Rt 129, Lynnfield Street). Follow Rt 129 east for 4 miles to the intersection of Rt 129 and Rt 107 (Western Avenue). Take a left onto Western Avenue heading toward Salem. Continue for 0.6 miles to the intersection of Eastern Avenue and Rt 129. Turn right onto Eastern Avenue and proceed for 1.5 miles. Cross Rt 1A and turn left onto Lynn Shore Drive, heading across the Nahant causeway (Long Beach is on the left). At the end of causeway, continue 1.7 miles onto Nahant Road (pass the Coast Guard station, Nahant Country Club, and Post Office on the left). Then turn right onto Wharf Street, left onto Walton Road, and right onto Furbush Road. Parking is on the right.   
• 

Martin Burns Wildlife Management Area, Newbury
(Downfall Management Area)

• Species of Note: Woodcock, whip-poor-wills, warblers, and flycatchers are featured birds during spring migration. Nesting forest residents include thrushes, woodpeckers, ruffed grouse, scarlet tanagers, rose-breasted grosbeaks, and many other songbirds. In the fields watch and listen for indigo buntings, field sparrows, prairie warblers, and blue-winged warblers. Both tree swallows and eastern bluebirds use the many nest boxes found around the property.
• Habitats: Also known as the Downfall Wildlife Management Area, this property consists of hardwood forest with dense understory. Rocky hills dot the property with 3 small fire ponds. Much of low area is poorly drained and seasonally wet. Headwaters of Cart Creek and Little River within this property. This place is great for a wide range of nesting species as well.
• Viewing Information: A field office is located on this property that is staffed part-time at 978-465-8012. On Saturdays and holidays in October and November, the Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is VERY popular with pheasant hunters. The WMA is stocked with pheasants during those months.  On weekdays during those month from mid-morning to mid-afternoon there is much less hunting activity. Visitors to this area from October through December should wear blaze orange cap or vest for visibility. Statewide, hunting is prohibited on Sundays.
• Size: 1555 acres
• Location: Orchard Street, Byfield, Newbury
• Managed by: Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife
• Phone: 978-263-4347
• Website: www.mass.gov/masswildlife
• Directions: I-95 to Central St/Byfield Exit. Central Street east to Orchard St (3/4 mile) Turn left on Orchard St and drive approx 1 mile to parking and field office on left.
• 

Joppa Flats Education Center and Wildlife Sanctuary, Newburyport

• Species of Note: Waterfowl, Bald Eagles, and Snowy Owls in the winter, Wood Warblers and other passerines in the spring; shorebirds in the spring and late summer-fall, egrets and herons in the summer.
• Habitats: Small upland site overlooking a restored salt marsh and the Merrimack River estuary.
• Viewing Information: Handicapped accessible; second floor indoor and outdoor viewing areas give spectacular views of the Merrimack River estuary. Joppa Flats is the gateway to Plum Island and the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge.
• Size: 54 acres
• Special Recognition: Great Marsh Important Bird Area; Western Hemispheric Shore Bird Reserve Network Regional Site.
• Location: 1 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport
• Managed by: Mass Audubon Society
• Hours: Grounds open dawn to dusk, Center open 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday
• Phone: 978-462-9998
• Website: www.massaudubon.org/joppaflats
• Directions: Take Rt I-95 to exit 57 (Rt 113, W Newbury/Newburyport). At the end of the exit ramp take Rt 113 east. Follow Rt 113 and Rt 1A east for 3.8 miles to Rolfe's Lane in Newbury. At the traffic light at Rolfe's Lane, take a left (heading north). Drive 0.6 miles to the end of Rolfe's Lane and take a right. The sanctuary is 0.1 miles ahead on the left.
  Public Transportation: From the MBTA commuter rail station in Newburyport, take the Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority (MVRTA) Bus #51 outbound toward Plum Island. Ask the driver to stop at the Joppa Flats Education Center on the Plum Island Turnpike. MVRTA schedule and route information is available at 978-469-6878.
• 

Maudslay State Park, Newburyport

• Species of Note: Nesting great horned owls, pileated, red-bellied, downy, and hairy woodpeckers, red-tailed hawks, phoebes, tree swallows, bluebirds, house wrens, pine warblers, ovenbird, Baltimore orioles, scarlet tanagers, towhee, chipping sparros. Diverse habitat makes this park interesting in migration and can be a stop over for numerous passerines. Bald eagles, herons, egrets, cormorants, geese and ducks may be viewed along the Merrimack River in season.
• Habitats: The former Moseley family estate on the Merrimack River, this 480 acre park features 19th century gardens and plantings, rolling meadows, towering pines, ponds, wetlands, and one of the largest naturally-occuring stands of mountain laurel in Massachusetts. Most breathtaking are the ornamental trees and masses of azaleas and rhododendrons that bloom in May and June. An exquisite place for walking and birding. During the winter, a portion of the park is off limits due to roosting bald eagles, but the remainder is open to the public.
• Viewing Information: Scenic vistas overlooking the Merrimack River.
• Size: 480 acres
• Location: Curzon's Mill Road,Newburyport
• Managed by: Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Hours: 8am to Sunset
• Seasonal Closures: Open Year 'Round
• Phone: 978-462-7223
• Website: www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/northeast/maud.htm
• Directions: From North and South: Take Route 95, exit 57 to Route 133 east. Follow 133 east for half a mile and turn left on Noble Street. At stop sign turn left onto Ferry Road, bear left at fork and follow signs.
• From West: Take I-495, exit 55 to Route 110 east. Continue 1 miles to Merrill Street, turn right at second light. Continue on Merrill Street/Spofford Street for 1.5 miles. Turn right before stop sign onto Ferry Road and follow signs.
• 

Newburyport Harbor, Newburyport

• Species of Note: Look for shorebirds in spring and fall (e.g. Hudsonian godwit) migration, waterfowl (goldeneyes, scaup, long-tailed ducks, wigeon) and gulls (Iceland, glaucous, black-headed) in the winter, and waders in the summer. The rule of thumb for shorebirds in Newburyport Harbor is to arrive 4-4.5 hours after or 3-4.5 hours before Boston high tide. Waterfowl viewing is better at higher tides. Check for gulls behind the water treatment plant at mid or lower tides.
• Habitats: Newburyport harbor and the Merrimack River estuary are one of the most important birding locations in the county. The combination of extensive tidal mudflats, salt marshes, large shellfish beds, and productive waters make this area a draw for birders and birds alike.
• Viewing Information: Prime viewing locations include the Joppa Flats Education Center (Mass Audubon, see separate listing, parking and second floor observation area) at 1 Plum Island Turnpike, the Joppa Park boat ramp (municipal, limited parking) on Water Street (intersection with Neptune St.), and behind the Newburyport Wastewater Treatment Plant (municipal; turn off Water St. at the sign for the American Marine/American Yacht Club, turn right onto the dirt road behind the water treatment plant, limited parking – not plowed in the winter.)
• Size: N/A acres
• Special Recognition: Within Great Marsh Important Bird Area; Western Hemispheric Shore Bird Reserve Network Regional Site.
• Location: Newburyport
• Managed by: City of Newburyport; Mass Audubon Society
• Directions: Locations are accessed from Water Street in Newburyport.
• 

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Newburyport
(Plum Island)

• Species of Note: More than 350 species of birds (see description below)  
• Habitats:  Barrier Islands, with beach, dune, shrub, grasslands, maritime forest, fresh to brackish water impoundments, and salt marsh habitats.
• Viewing Information: Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is noted as one of the finest birding areas in the nation with more than 350 species recorded. Any season can produce a memorable visit. Each season’s highlights follow. Piping plovers first return towards the end of March and nest on the open beach. Purple Martins begin to arrive in mid-April. Raptor migration is best observed in April and early May. Peak migratory bird diversity occurs during the latter half of May. At this time a day’s tally may result in one hundred or more species. Major waves of passerines, especially warblers, vireos, thrushes and flycatchers are the main attraction. Good birding continues into early June with passerine migration still in progress. By early July, southbound shorebird migrants begin to arrive with numbers peaking in August. Beginning in mid-August, large numbers of herons congregate at roost sites. Also in August great concentrations of migratory tree swallows can be observed. Also at this time, warblers, vireos, and other fall passerine migrants become apparent. Fall passerine migration continues into September and shorebird diversity is at its height. Peregrine falcons occur most regularly from from mid-September through November. During October, sizeable numbers of yellow-rumped warblers can be found in Refuge thickets. In October and November, dabbling ducks dominate the impoundments and salt marsh complemented here and in deeper water areas by a diversity of divers. Mid-October through November is best for viewing northern gannets with strong onshore ocean winds most favorable. Wintering loons, grebes, and sea ducks including common eider, white-winged scoter , and long-tailed duck can be seen along the ocean side of the Refuge. Two winter specialties are snowy owls and rough-legged hawks found most commonly in grasslands and other open habitats. Northern shrike, another winter feature, is most frequently located in roadside trees and shrubs.
• Size: 4662 acres
• Special Recognition: Important Bird Area; Great Marsh Important Bird Area; Western Hemispheric Shorebird Reserve Network Regional Site; Massachusetts Viewing Site.
• Location: 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport
• Managed by: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior
• Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
• Phone: 978-465-5753
• Website: parkerriver.fws.gov
• Directions: The Refuge is located on Plum Island, 4 miles east of Newburyport, MA.
• 

Harold Parker State Forest, North Andover

• Species of Note: While meandering the miles of forest trails at HPSF, you are most likely to spy the following species: rufus-sided towhees, scarlet tanagers, american goldfinches, great blue herons, Cooper's, red-tailed and broad-winged hawks, barred owls, Canada geese and wood ducks.
• Habitats: HPSF is generally classified as an oak-hickory climax forest, which also includes birch, hop hornbeam, white and red pine, and beech; as well as a diverse and rich understory. Glacial erratics and outcroppings are prevalent in HPSF as well as some stands of hemlock and cedar. Eleven ponds exist within HPSF, nine of which were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Crops during the 1930’s. Seasonal beaver activities often cause expansion of some of the waterways and overtopping of trails.
• Viewing Information: During the late fall and early winter seasons, HPSF is an active hunting area for deer and pheasant. Visitors to this area from October through December should wear blaze orange cap or vest for visibility. Statewide, hunting is prohibited on Sundays. Bathrooms located at the HQ year-round and at Berry Pond late May to late October.
• Size: Approximately 3500 acres
• Special Recognition: HPSF is a classic style state park with two remaining historic structures from the CCC era; the wood frame HQ building and a stone and rough beam pavilion. HPSF is also the closest Campground north of Boston and boasts more than twenty miles of mixed use trails.
• Location: Mailing: 1951 Turnpike Road, North Andover, MA 01845
  Headquarters: 305 Middleton Road, North Andover, MA 01845
• Managed by: Mass. Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
• Seasonal Closures: HPSF is open all year with the exception of the Lorraine Park Campground (Open mid-April to Early October) and the bath house at Berry Pond (Open late May to Labor Day).
• Phone: 978-686-3391
• Website: www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/northeast/harp.htm
• Directions: Follow Rt. 114 to Harold Parker Road, at the end of HP Road turn left, the HQ is 100 yds on the left. From Rt. 93 take the Rt. 125 exit and follow signs for State Police, at the State Police Building (apx) three miles) take a right onto Harold Parker Road. Follow HP Road to the end, parking straight for trailhead parking, right to the Campground, left and then right on Salem St. to the HQ.
• 

Halibut Point, Rockport

• Species of Note: One of the best places to watch seabirds from land in Massachusetts. Northeast storms at any season, but especially fall and winter, blow seabirds into Ipswich Bay, which they exit by turning into wind and flying past Halibut and adjacent Andrews Points to return to open ocean. Gannets, kittiwakes, terns, alcids, jaegers, shearwaters, phalaropes, storm-petrels, and others can be seen in sustained easterly winds; fall migrant loons, grebes, and diving ducks stream past regardless of weather. Many of these birds winter, along with purple sandpipers. Site is also the best in Massachusetts for wintering harlequin ducks. Vegetation pulls in wide variety of migrant songbirds; Halibut Point is a coastal "migrant trap."
• Habitats: Granite headland overlooking Atlantic Ocean at northern tip of Cape Ann from as high as 50 feet. Part state park and part TTOR reservation, with old quarry, tidal pools, spectacular surf in northeast storms, and thick shrub habitat backing into oak forest.
• Viewing Information:  State park visitor center/museum tells history of Cape Ann granite industry and has year-round restrooms. Wide trails wind throughout both the state park and adjacent TTOR reservation. Tidal pools are great for children. Swimming and snorkeling are good in summer, but there are no lifeguards. Walk to shoreline is about half a mile from parking lot. Picnicking allowed on rocks, but no picnic tables. BEWARE SLIPPERY ROCKS BELOW HIGH-TIDE LINE!  
• Size: 68 acres
• Special Recognition: Massachusetts Important Bird Area; Massachusetts Wildlife Viewing Site
• Location: Gott Avenue, Rockport
• Managed by: Mass. Department of Conservation and Recreation (Halibut Pt. State Park); The Trustees of Reservations (Halibut Pt. Reservation)
• Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
• Phone: DCR 978-546-2997; TTOR 978-356-4351
• Website: www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/northeast/halb.htm and www.thetrustees.org
• Directions: From the end of Rt. 128 at the traffic light, go left (north) on Rt. 127 (Eastern Ave.) for 3 miles to a five-way intersection. Stay on Rt. 127 as it goes left and becomes Railroad Ave. Continue 2.4 miles to Gott Ave. on the right. Halibut Point parking area is immediately on the right; nominal fee charged weekends and holidays, Memorial Day to Columbus Day; otherwise free.
• 

Rowley Marshes, Rowley
(Nelson Island)(Stackyard Road)

• Species of Note:  The salt marsh from late March to November is a feeding ground for the complete range of herons, egrets, and glossy ibises that summer in New England, especially at high tide when they can't hide in the ditches. This is when they concentrate in the salt pans, some of which lie right beside the dirt track between the parking lot and Nelson Island. Shorebirds of many species also feed in these pans, while gulls, terns, and kingfishers course the surrounding marshes. Nesting marsh species are willets, killdeer, saltmarsh sharp-tailed sparrows, and occasional seaside sparrows. The hayfield has nesting bobolinks and sometimes eastern meadowlarks and savannah sparrows. The fringes of the island feature nesting orchard orioles and willow flycatchers--maybe one or two pairs of each. This is one of the best places in the county to find orchard orioles. Winter highlights are the raptors: short-eared and snowy owls, northern harriers, red-tailed and rough-legged hawks, and occasional bald eagles. Horned larks, snow buntings, and Lapland longspurs may also be found on the island in winter. 
• Habitats:  Stackyard Road follows a narrow upland peninsula well out into the Great Marsh and offers views of it from several places. Most of the habitat is of course salt marsh, while the upland along the road is primarily oak forest. Nelson Island is essentially a hayfield, mowed annually, with a dirt road along the south side and a narrow band of trees and shrubs on the north side. It is literally an island surrounded by salt marsh.  
• Viewing Information:  Limited access during waterfowl hunting season (Sunday only). But birds can be observed from the road or parking lot at any time. Knee-high waders are usually necessary to walk the dirt track to Nelson Island; without them you must pay attention to the tides and plan to return to the parking lot well before high tide. There are no facilities, and dogs are prohibited at all times on Nelson Island. The salt marsh is heavily studied by many institutions; for more information on this research go to www.pielter.org.   
• Size: Many hundreds of acres
• Special Recognition: Massachusetts Important Bird Area; Great Marsh Important Bird Area; Western Hemispheric Shore Bird Reserve Network Regional Site
• Location:  Stackyard Road, Rowley
• Managed by: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Nelson Island and surrounding marshes); Essex County Greenbelt Association (175 acres of marsh and upland on both sides of road)
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk
• Phone: 978-465-5753 (Parker River NWR); 978-768-7241 (Greenbelt)
• Website: www.parkerriver.fws.gov and www.ecga.org
• Directions:  Rowley lies between Newbury and Ipswich. From the center of Rowley at the traffic light on Rt. 1A, drive north on 1A about 2 miles to a dirt road on the right marked Stackyard Rd. Take this road and keep to the right when it forks. Follow to the end, about a mile from 1A, and park in the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge parking lot. (The refuge has much land on the west side of the marsh as well as Plum Island.) From here you can walk the dirt track out to Nelson Island, or back along the road to explore the marsh edges.    
• 

Salisbury Beach State Reservation, Salisbury

• Species of Note: Wintering waterfowl are abundant at this site, with common eiders and all three scoter species often in large flocks in either the ocean or the river. Loons and grebes are easy to observe in fall and winter, and easterly winds bring in alcids (mainly razorbills), gannets, and kittiwakes. Gulls and shorebirds, including purple sandpipers, gather on the jetties at high tide; Iceland and glaucous gulls are often seen in the colder months. The salt marsh harbors herons and shorebirds in spring and fall, waterfowl from fall through spring, and raptors in fall and winter, notably short-eared and snowy owls and rough-legged hawks. The campgound is prime winter territory for horned larks, Lapland longspurs, snow buntings, and various sparrows, while the pitch pines lure wintering crossbills, both red and white-winged, in flight years. The pines along the marsh edge are a great migrant trap for songbirds and sometimes harbor wintering saw-whet or long-eared owls. It is not unusual to see 100 or more harbor seals hauled out on the rocks in the river at low tide. 
• Habitats: "Salisbury Beach" is a complex of salt marsh, ocean beach, dunes, and river estuary, complete with jetties on both sides of the mouth of the Merrimack, where the rip tides attract a wide variety of fish-eating birds. Just back from the river mouth is an extensive campground with pitch pines scattered throughout, and a somewhat larger pitch-pine grove along the north edge of the campground where it meets the salt marsh. The combination of habitats provides opportunities to see a wide range of migrants, wintering birds, and wintering harbor seals. 
• Viewing Information: There is no fee outside the camping season. Birding can be done from the car or by walking around; there are no trails but none are needed in this open area. Restrooms are sometimes locked in winter and somewhat unpredictable in this regard. Be aware that the marshes are actively hunted during waterfowl hunting seasons.   Statewide, hunting is prohibited on Sundays. 
• Size: 521 acres
• Special Recognition: Massachusetts Wildlife Viewing Site
• Location:  Route 1A, Salisbury
• Managed by: Mass. Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Phone: 978-462-4481     
• Website: www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/northeast.salb
• Directions: From I-95 take Rt. 110, the first exit north of the Merrimack River, east to U.S. 1 in Salisbury and turn left (north). You immeditately come to a set of lights at the main intersection of town. Turn right at the light to follow Rt. 1A north; you will actually be driving east toward the coast. Follow 1A for 2 miles to the reservation entrance on the right.
• 
• 

Salisbury Salt Marsh Wildlife Management Area, Salisbury

• Species of Note: Waterfowl (long-tailed ducks, scaup, wigeon, goldeneye) and raptors (bald eagle, northern harrier, short-eared owl) in winter, saltmarsh sharp-tailed sparrow in summer, shorebirds in spring and fall migration.
• Habitats: Small wooded upland section leads to the salt marsh and Morrill Creek along the Merrimack River estuary.
• Viewing Information: Parking is limited. Refrain from blocking access to the pathway through the marsh to the shore for launching small craft into Newburyport Harbor. Waterfowl hunters use this area as a point to launch. Statewide, hunting is prohibited on Sundays. Please respect the privacy of nearby residents.
• Size: 427 acres
• Special Recognition: Within Great Marsh Important Bird Area; Western Hemispheric Shore Bird Reserve Network Regional Site
• Location:  South end of Sweet Apple Tree Lane, Salisbury
• Managed by: Mass. Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (see the Mass Wildlife Website for restrictions).
• Phone: 978-263-4347
• Website: www.mass.gov/masswildlife
• Directions: From US Route 1, turn east onto March Road (just at the north end of the Merrimack River bridge between Newburyport and Salisbury). March Road becomes Ferry Road. After 1 mile, turn right onto Sweet Apple Tree Lane. Park at the end of the road.
• 

Breakheart Reservation, Saugus

• Species of Note: The mixed oak/pine uplands and other habitats support the standing all-time bird list of about 140 species of songbirds, waterfowl and predators. In early spring "black and whites" enter the pond from the coastal estuaries as soon as the ice clears; at that time many buffleheads can be seen as well as common mergansers and ring-necked ducks. Hawks can be observed from the rocky outcrops during the fall migration.
• Habitats: The reservation has very mixed habitats ranging from riverine marsh/swamp and undeveloped pond up through oak forest with mature pine & hemlock stands to rocky fellsite outcrops.
• Viewing Information: Activities, both recreational and educational, are listed on ://www.mass.gov/dcr/events.htm, ://www.saugus.net/General/Calendar/ and in the Friends of Breakheart newsletter which can be downloaded at ://www.saugus.org/FOBR/ .
• Size: Over 700 acres
• Special Recognition:  Burnt over pines on the Saugus River Trail many years ago hosted one of the few state listings for black-backed woodpecker.
• Location: 177 Forest Street, Saugus
• Managed by: Mass. Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Phone: 781-233-0834
• Website: www.mass.gov/mdc/breakhrt.htm
• Directions: Lynn Fells Parkway off Rt 1. Right turn past Shaws. There is a large sign. The Visitor Center is located beyond the Kasabuski Arena.
• 

Bradley Palmer State Park, Topsfield

• Species of Note: Bradley Palmer contains most of the same species as Willowdale State Forest across the river in Ipswich. Like Willowdale, it is best for breeding birds, from May through July. Birds typical of transition-zone mixed forest nest here, such as barred and great horned owls, Cooper's hawks, hairy and red-bellied woodpeckers, eastern wood pewees, great crested flycatchers, veeries, wood and hermit thrushes, red-eyed vireos, eastern towhees, ovenbirds, black-throated green, pine, Canada, and black-and-white warblers, common yellowthroats, northern waterthrushes, scarlet tanagers, rose-breasted grosbeaks, red-breasted nuthatches, and brown creepers, in addition to the commoner woodland species.
• Habitats: Habitat is very similar to nearby Willowdale State Forest, except there is no large beaver marsh. Bradley Palmer State park is a typical Essex County mixed-forest habitat with a combination of pine-oak-hickory upland and red maple swamp. Miles of trails with numbered intersections allow access to all corners of this large, unfragmented forest. 
• Viewing Information: Bradley Palmer is very similar to Willowdale in its conditions and marked trails, but is more heavily used by horseback riders. There is also a paved road running through the park (closed to vehicles) that is used by many joggers and dog-walkers. The road makes the park very accessible to wheelchairs. There is also a children's playground along this road, so in general there are more people around in summer. Dogs must be on leash.
• Size: 720 acres
• Special Recognition: Massachusetts Important Bird Area
• Location: Asbury Street, Topsfield (Close to Hamilton)
• Managed by: Mass. Department of Conservation and Recreation
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk
• Phone: DCR 978-887-5931
• Website: www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/northeast/brad.htm
• Directions:  From U.S. 1 take Ipswich Rd. in Topsfield east about 1.5 miles to Asbury St. on the right. Take Asbury St. a few hundred yards across the Ipswich River to park entrance on left.Parking is available at several obvious areas close to park headquarters. To enter from the east end of the park, continue on Ipswich Rd. (becomes Topsfield Rd. in Ipswich) to Mill Rd. on right about 2 miles past Asbury St. Turn right (south) on Mill Rd. (becomes Highland St. in Hamilton) and follow about 2 miles to parking area on right opposite Pingree School and just PAST what looks like an entrance, but which is posted no parking.
• 

Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, Topsfield

• Species of Note:  The cattail marshes feature aquatic birds such as wood ducks, herons, rails, bitterns, and pied-billed grebes. The uplands are the nesting grounds for a wide variety of New England forest birds such as barred owls, wild turkeys, pileated woodpeckers, ruby-throated hummingbirds, scarlet tanagers, cuckoos, and a dozen species of warblers. The fields support eastern bluebirds in well-maintained nest boxes. The sanctuary is also a great place for migrants, both terrestrial and aqatic; the marshes host ducks in large numbers and the marsh edges can abound with songbirds.  
• Habitats: Ipswich River is Mass Audubon’s largest Sanctuary and contains the county’s best riverine habitat along with diverse forest, meadow, and wetland habitats. The Great Wenham Swamp, the county’s largest fresh-water wetland, lies along this part of the Ipswich River, which flows through the sanctuary on its thirty-five-mile journey from Middlesex County to the Ocean. Ten miles of trails expose the hiker to a variety of inland habitats, including fields around the visitors’ center. Beavers have dammed several streams and enlarged the wetlands in recent years; their operations provide an opportunity to study how their engineering skills improve wetland habitat.
• Viewing Information: The meandering river can be seen from many viewpoints along esker trails, while Bunker Meadow, a large open shrub swamp rich in birdlife, can be watched from an observation tower. A well-staffed visitor center provides a comprehensive introduction to the property, and many interpretive walks are scheduled on a wide variety of environmental topics for people of all ages. IRWS, in addition to being a great place to watch birds, is one of the premier environmental education centers in Essex County. Entry fee of $4 for adults is waived for Massachusetts Audubon members.     
• Size: 2267 acres
• Location: 87 Perkins Row, Topsfield
• Managed by: Mass Audubon Society
• Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
• Seasonal Closures: Closed on Christmas Day. Open dawn to dusk, Tuesday through Sunday and Monday holidays
• Phone: 978-887-9264
• Website: www.massaudubon.org/ipswichriver
• Directions:From the Boston Area: Take Rt. I-95 north to exit 50 and follow Rt. 1 north. At the junction of Rt. 1 and Rt. 97, turn right onto Rt. 97 south (toward Beverly and Danvers.) Take the second left onto Perkins Row. Follow Perkins Row for 1 mile; the sanctuary is on the right.
• From the North: Take Rt. I-95 south to exit 53A and follow Rt. 97 south. At the junction of Rt. 97 and Rt. 1 in Topsfield, stay on 97 south and take the second left onto Perkins Row. Follow Perkins Row for 1 mile; the sanctuary is on the right.
• 

Endicott Wildlife Sanctuary, Wenham

• Species of Note: The sanctuary attracts such sought-after birds as pileated woodpeckers, winter wrens, and Louisiana waterthrushes.
• Habitats: The sanctuary is small but has a diversity of habitats that includes meadows, woods, and cedar swamps.
• Viewing Information: This site also serves as Mass Audubon's North Shore Advocacy and Coastal Education office, working with interested citizens, municipal and regional officials and schools to provide greater awareness and protection of the region’s wildlife habitats. Although there are no walking trails, the public is welcome to stop in and learn more about our advocacy and education efforts on the North Shore.  
• Size: 43 acres
• Location: 346 Grapevine Road, Wenham
• Managed by: Mass Audubon Society
• Hours: Advocacy and Education Office 9am-5pm, M-F Seasonal
• Phone: 978-927-1122
• Website: www.massaudubon.org/Nature_Connection/Sanctuaries/Endicott/index.php
• Directions: Take Rt I-95 north to Rt 128. Take exit 17/Grapevine Road and turn right onto Grapevine Road. Look for the sanctuary on the right just past Toppan Lane, located at 346 Grapevine Road.
• 

Cherry Hill Reservoir, West Newbury

• Species of Note:  The main attraction is the waterfowl, good in spring and better in fall. The featured species are ring-necked and ruddy ducks, both of which spend the fall here in the hundreds; many stay until the lake freezes, which is never before mid-December. Other species often seen here are pied-billed grebes, American coots, greater and lesser scaup, buffleheads, canvasbacks (rare), redheads (rare), common mergansers, and Canada geese. The flocks of geese should always be examined for a cackling or greater white-fronted goose. The conservation land is excellent for sparrows in fall, among other migrant songbirds. Eastern bluebirds have nested in tree hollows in the swamps below the dams. 
• Habitats: Cherry Hill Reservoir, owned by the City of Newburyport, is a large lake excavated in the late 1970's. It was built for that city's water supply, and quickly became a magnet for migrating waterfowl. The southern border of the lake is West Newbury conservation land, consisting of weedy fields, a bit of fresh cattail marsh, and two outlet streams, dammed for the reservoir and now good swamp habitats.   
• Viewing Information:  There are no facilities. Boats are not permitted on the reservoir. Be sure not to trespass on private land, which lines the road on the other side. A spotting scope helps to study the waterfowl. 
• Size: unknown
• Location:  Moulton Street, West Newbury
• Managed by: City of Newburyport (the reservoir); Town of West Newbury (the conservation land)
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk
• Directions:  From the Scotland Rd. exit off I-95 in Newbury take Scotland Rd. west, which becomes South St. in West Newbury. Drive about half a mile and bear right where the road forks at the town line; a huge boulder will be on your left. Continue for another half mile or so (the road curves right) to the reservoir on the right. By following the road (now Moulton St.) around the lake, many vantage points can be gained, and you can park anywhere along the road by simply pulling over on either side.    
• 

Pikes Bridge Road, West Newbury

• Species of Note: Spring migrants run the gamut of songbirds and marsh birds. The place is dependable for sora and Virginia rails, least bitterns, cuckoos, blackbirds, eastern kingbirds, willow flycatchers, Baltimore orioles, rose-breasted grosbeaks, blue-gray gnatcatchers, warbling vireos, common yellowthroats, blue-winged and yellow warblers, and many others. Bobolinks nest in the hayfields; rough winged swallows sometimes nest in the culvert where the marsh lies on both sides of the road. The migration seasons offer a variety of waterfowl. Early migrant flocks of chimney swifts are often seen here in late April, competing with all six swallow species for flying insects. Watch the fields for wild turkeys and ring-necked pheasants. This site offers a tremendous variety of species with a minimum of walking. 
• Habitats: This area, much of it protected, is a combination of wooded swamp, open marsh, and adjacent hayfields with bordering hedgerows and stands of trees. The diversity of migrant and breeding birdlife is excellent because of the wetlands and the amount of edge habitat.   
• Viewing Information: The parking area holds several cars. The dirt road is wide at the east end where you start, narrowing to a trail across the culvert on the west side. The entire road is less than a mile long and is all flat. It is often muddy with large puddles, so wear waders in spring. In summer it dries out and can sometimes accommodate wheelchairs.
• Size: unknown
• Location: West Newbury
• Managed by: The parcel on the left as you walk in belongs to Essex County Greenbelt Association.
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk
• Phone:  978-768-7241
• Website: www.ecga.org
• Directions:  From the Scotland Rd. exit off I-95, take Scotland Rd. west, then an immediate right on Turkey Hill Rd. Drive north on Turkey Hill about half a mile to a large dirt pulloff on the left, where the road curves right. A dirt road leads west into a large swamp. This is Pikes Bridge Rd., a popular birding destination in spring and summer.  
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