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Important Bird and Birding Areas
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Absecon Inlet
Atlantic CountyCoordinates: N 39.38121
W 74.40802
Site Map Atlantic Coast: New England / Mid-Atlantic CoastArea: 991 Acres Habitat: Open water and beach/dune habitatSite Description: The open waters and sandy beaches of Absecon Inlet are bordered by Atlantic City’s high-density development to the south and by Brigantine’s dense residential development to the north. The estimated 260 acres of remnant beach and dune habitat located along the northern edge of the inlet are, consequently, extremely important to breeding and migrating birds. Beyond the open waters of Absecon Inlet lie the vast tidal salt marshes and creeks of Absecon Wildlife Management Area and the Brigantine Division of the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. The site intersects the Brigantine Island Natural Heritage Priority Site, designated by New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection as some of the state’s most significant natural areas.IBA Criteria:
| Criterion | Species |
| Conservation Concern – State-endangered (B) | Black Skimmer |
| Conservation Concern – State-special Concern (B) | American Oystercatcher |
| Significant Migrant Stopover/Flyover (FM, SM) | Shorebirds |
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| Marbled Godwit | Kevin Watson |
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Birds: Absecon Inlet provides breeding and foraging habitat for Black Skimmers and American Oystercatchers. Shorebirds also depend heavily on the area throughout spring and fall migration. Large concentrations of shorebirds utilize the site in the fall with peak numbers of over 150 Willets, 50 Marbled Godwits, 750 Black Skimmers and 250 American Oystercatchers. Royal Terns are also present during this time of the year.Conservation: Although the beaches are clean and wide, the swift tidal waters flowing through the inlet naturally cause severe erosion. Efforts to control erosion in this area have been unsuccessful. In addition to direct loss of habitat, declines in beach-nesting birds can also be attributed to human disturbance, including vehicles on the beach, and predation by small mammals and gulls. Fencing and nest exclosures help to protect birds during the breeding season. Recreational use of the area should be prohibited at critical times of the year as well.Additional Information: Site Report
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| Shorebirds on the beach | Michael Hogan |
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