The Reserve's purpose is to promote the wise use and management of the Great Bay Estuary. Encompassing nearly 5,000 acres of tidal waters, Great Bay is part of the Atlantic flyway and is an important migratory stopover as well as wintering area for waterfowl and wading birds. Home to several endangered and threatened bird species, the bay supports a large winter population of bald eagles. This checklist was prepared by the Seacoast Chapter of the Audubon Society of New Hampshire for the Reserve. Adam's Point is one of the best birdwatching locations and the easiest to access.
Trails lead out around the point and offer excellent views of the bay.
The new refuge located on the east shore of Great Bay currently has two birding trails. Access is through Pease International Tradeport. The following are some of the more unusual species sighted in the bay area within the past 30 years, and are not to be expected. Shrike Summer Tanager Blue Grosbeak Lark Sparrow Henslow's Sparrow Western Meadowlark Greater White-fronted Goose Information for this checklist had been compiled by Stephen Mirick through observations and data published by the Audubon Society of New Hampshire. Thanks are extended to Art Borror, Bob Quinn, Tudor Richards, Paul Lacourse, and Kimball Elkins for their review, suggestions and reference material.