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New Orleans Bird Watching Tours

a clear calm blue sky day at 2pm near Bayou Bienvenue .of a a Roseate spoonbill with wings spread

New Orleans is a great place for birding, with a variety of habitats including swamps, marshes, bayous, and forests that support a wide range of bird species. Some of the common birds you might see in the city include Great Egrets, Snowy Egrets, Green Herons, and Anhingas, which can be found around the wetlands and marshes in the area. The city is also home to a number of colorful songbirds, such as Cardinals, Blue Jays, and Mockingbirds, which can often be seen and heard in gardens and parks.

There are several places in and around New Orleans that are particularly good for birding, including:

  • Maurepas and Shell Bank: This beautiful area is home to a variety of bird species, including owls, herons, eagles, and more.  Check out our Manchac Kayak Tour or our Extended Manchac Kayak Tour for a more intimate look.
  • City Park: This large urban park is a great place to see a variety of birds, including Woodpeckers, Blue Jays, and Mockingbirds.
  • Audubon Park: Located in the Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans, this park is home to a number of bird species, including Great Egrets, Snowy Egrets, and Green Herons.
  • Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge, located on the eastern edge of the city, is home to a variety of bird species, including wading birds, waterfowl, and raptors.  Our self guided kayak rental ventures into this area and so does our Captained Tiki Boat!  Get a chance to see the Roseate Spoonbill here or even a whole flock!

If you’re interested in birding in and around New Orleans, it’s a good idea to bring a pair of binoculars and a field guide to help you identify the different species you encounter. You should also be mindful of the time of year you visit, as different species can be found in the area at different times of the year.  Our kayak tours and kayak tour guides are very knowledgable of the local bird species and will help you get those great photos.