Bird Watching

Terrain

Western Maine is home to hundreds of bird species, and the huts offer the perfect vantage point to observe them in their native habitat. Birding experts rave about the unique landscape that attracts a wide variety of birds:

“The climate in this picturesque region is relatively severe. Northern hardwoods cover many of the sheltered slopes, but a boreal forest of spruce and fir dominates the exposed and higher elevation areas. Spruce grouse, black-backed woodpecker, yellow-bellied flycatcher, northern raven, gray jay, boreal chickadee, winter wren, Swainson’s and gray-cheeked thrushes, golden-crowned kinglet, blackpoll warbler, white-throated sparrow, and dark-eyed junco are all among the characteristic birds to be found here.

Many of the species that live in this region are among the most sought after by birders from all over the country. Although many of these birds are comparatively tame and allow close approach, they typically live in remote places that require some hiking.”  —Maine Audubon

Birders can expect trails of mild to moderate difficulty with just a few miles from each trailhead to the nearest hut and approximately 12 miles when traveling directly between huts. Some birders choose to explore the Bigelow Preserve or venture onto the Appalachian Trail, which crosses the Maine Huts & Trails network.

Trail Conditions

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Suggested Routes

Shore Trail by Flagstaff Lake Hut: Pileated Woodpeckers dwell in the lakeside forest. Listen for their distinctive high, clear, series of piping calls that lasts several seconds. Also keep an eye out for Belted Kingfishers and Eastern Wood-Pewees.

Upper Newton’s Revenge and Oak Knoll at Stratton Brook Hut: Listen for Red-Eyed and Philadelphia Vireos in the tall birch trees. Also heard: Hermit Thrush, Yellow-Rumped Warblers and Pileated Woodpeckers.

Warren’s Trail and Larry’s Trail along Poplar Stream: The woods along Poplar Stream are teeming with wildlife. Chickadees, various woodpeckers, Kinglets, Warblers, Sparrows and Winter Wrens.