Tropical & Southern Coastal Birds

Certain coastal birds bring a distinctly southern or tropical feel to the shoreline, with striking silhouettes, bold colors, or dramatic flight styles. While many of these species can be found along the entire Atlantic Coast, they’re especially associated with warmer climates and southern beaches.

Brown Pelican

Large coastal pelican famous for dramatic plunge-diving for fish.

Learn more about the Brown Pelican

Royal Tern

Large tern with shaggy black crest and sharp orange bill

Learn more about the Royal Tern

Laughing Gull

Noisy coastal gull known for its distinctive laughing call

Learn more about the Laughing Gull

Shorebirds Guide