Seawatching

Seawatching is a type of birdwatching where participants observe seabirds from a fixed point on the mainland.^[1] They may do this from a coastal location, usually a headland, looking out to sea, or from a boat or ship.

Seawatchers in Gambell, Alaska

Flamborough Head in northern England is a good place for seawatching

Seawatching is commonly performed during bird migration seasons, and particularly when weather conditions are suitable. Successful seawatching is very dependent on the weather.^[2] When the weather is fine, birds often stay out to sea, and pelagic trips are then a more effective way to observe them; if onshore winds combine with rain, birds can be forced to migrate close to shore.^[1]

Groups of birds for which seawatching is an effective observation method include petrels, terns and skuas.

See also

• Birds portal

• List of seawatching locations by country