Calendar

Activities, ranger tours, and most programs are included with your ferry ticket.

Fall Migration Bird Walk on Deer Island

Spend a morning looking for migrating birds with park ambassadors while walking the shores of Deer Island, enjoying unique views of the harbor and the Boston skyline.

Join park ambassadors and birding enthusiasts for a morning walk around Deer Island during the tail end of fall migration. We will circuit the Deer Island HarborWalk searching for both migrating and resident shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, and waterfowl. No previous birding experience is necessary and all skill levels are welcome for mutual learning and enjoyment!

Bonus!

The Stone Living Lab will be conducting their A Talk in the Park outreach program in the Park that morning 10:00 am to 11:00 am! Feel free to drop by their table to discuss wildlife, seasons, and nature-based approaches to climate resilience around the Boston Harbor. 

Directions: 

Deer Island can be reached by both car and public transportation (MBTA). Parking at Deer Island may be very limited, so using the transit option is encouraged. Please see the directions below:

MBTA: 

  • Take the Blue Line train to Orient Heights Station 
  • Transfer to the 712 Bus toward Point Shirley and get off at the Deer Island – MWRA Gate stop

Driving: 

Navigate to the Deer Island MWRA Gate (170 Tafts Ave, Winthrop, MA 02152) and turn left into public parking lot.

What to Bring: 

Binoculars (recommended, a limited supply will be provided so please don’t let this keep you home!), water bottle, snacks, sunscreen and hat, bug spray, comfortable walking shoes, and long sleeve layers or jacket. Participants should expect approximately 2.75 mi of walking on paved and gravel trails with some hilly sections.

For questions, please contact Alex van Boer at (617) 702-6324 or alexander_vanboer@nps.gov

Sign Up for the Boston Harbor Islands Newsletter!