UNPARALLED BIRDING

Hundreds of species pass along this flyway each spring heading north to disperse across North America. 

UNPARALLED BIRDING

Hundreds of species pass along this flyway each spring heading north to disperse across North America. 

Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan are the key Gulf Coast birding destinations – classic migrant traps that offer exceptional experiences during spring migration. Spring fallout events, triggered by southward-moving cold fronts with rain and northerly winds, create awe-inspiring displays as birds literally fall from the sky.

Explore six Coastal Birding Trail itineraries, encompassing over 200 miles

Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan are the key Gulf Coast birding destinations – classic migrant traps that offer exceptional experiences during spring migration. Spring fallout events, triggered by southward-moving cold fronts with rain and northerly winds, create awe-inspiring displays as birds literally fall from the sky. Dauphin Island remains popular throughout fall, with extended birding opportunities. Fort Morgan, equally renowned, sees spectacular fallouts of colorful migrants during adverse spring weather, attracting many vagrant species. Fall at Fort Morgan witnesses hundreds of migrating hawks, while winter brings water birds and sparrows. Although summer is the slowest, it presents favorable conditions for observing terns.

BEYOND BIRDING

In addition to migratory birds, the Alabama Gulf Coast is a haven for diverse wildlife and butterflies. With over 430 documented species, Alabama is ranked No. 5 in the U.S. for biodiversity by the Nature Conservancy. The Gulf Coast is home to one of the largest intact wilderness wetland areas in the country.

From bogs filled with beautiful, carnivorous pitcher plants to nearly seventy species of native trees, the Alabama Gulf Coast is a botanical treasure trove.

Sandy shores, ancient oaks, and maritime forests offer a living celebration of nature’s creativity. The landscape features graceful palmettos, moss-draped live oaks, and fragrant Southern magnolias. Salt-tolerant marsh grasses and vibrant wildflowers enrich the coastal scenery, while inland habitats range from pine forests to bottomland hardwoods.

DELICIOUS DINING

After a day of exploring birdlife, flora and fauna, prepare your taste buds for a thrilling journey through the heart of Southern comfort, where succulent seafood takes center stage. From plump Gulf shrimp to flaky red snapper, the seafood offerings are a testament to the region’s close relationship with the bountiful waters that lap at its shores, and a culinary heritage as vibrant and diverse as its stunning landscapes.

But it’s not just about the sea – the Gulf Coast’s culinary repertoire extends to hearty servings of smoky barbecue, locally sourced meats, and a medley of farm-fresh produce. Indulge in slow-cooked ribs, pulled pork, and sauced-up chicken, each dish a celebration of time-honored barbecue traditions.

Savor the warmth of hospitality in every bite as you explore the fusion of Cajun, Creole, and Southern influences. The gumbo is thick and hearty, the jambalaya is a spicy dance of flavors, and the cornbread is golden perfection. This is a land where every dish tells a story, where recipes are passed down through generations, and where each meal is a celebration of community – at a seaside shack, a family-owned diner, or a fine dining establishment with a view of the sunset over the Gulf.

”The Mobile-Tensaw Delta is the most diverse river system in North America. There are more species of fish, turtles, snails, salamanders, crawfish and mussels here than any other river system in America.” Ben Raines in Saving America’s Amazon: The Threat To Our Nation’s Most Biodiverse River System