A Birdwatcher’s Paradise in the Heart of Boston
Tucked just beyond the bustle of Logan International Airport lies one of Boston’s most serene natural treasures: Belle Isle Marsh Reservation. This 359-acre stretch of protected salt marsh isn’t just a haven for wildlife — it’s a sanctuary for city dwellers, too.
With over 271 bird species recorded here, Belle Isle accounts for nearly a quarter of all native bird species in the United States. If you linger along its winding walkways, there’s a good chance you’ll spot something rare — perhaps even one of several endangered or threatened birds that call this space home.
“You can be out there on the main street, then you come in here and you’re in a different place in a different time,” said Heather Famico of the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) in an interview with CBS News Boston.
A Vital Ecosystem with a Storied Past
Belle Isle is the last remaining salt marsh in the city — a landscape once common throughout Boston. More than just beautiful, it plays a vital role in protecting nearby neighborhoods from coastal erosion and storm surges.
Its survival is thanks to local advocacy. In the 1980s, as salt marshes across the region disappeared under development, the Friends of Belle Isle, a grassroots community group, successfully fought to preserve this unique habitat. Today, their efforts continue to ensure the marsh remains protected and appreciated.
“It’s a cool oasis in a hot city. We need this,” said Kannan Thiruvengadam of the Friends of Belle Isle. “We need to be out here — enjoying, appreciating, advocating, and learning what it is that we need, so we can then protect it.”
A Rare Refuge for Birds — and People
Among the rare species sighted here are the least bittern, short-eared owl, king rail, and the saltmarsh sparrow — birds considered to be of special conservation concern. More common residents include the Virginia rail and American oystercatcher, giving even casual birders a chance to witness something special.
Belle Isle is a living reminder of Boston’s environmental heritage and an example of how nature can thrive even in the most urban settings — if given the space and care.
So next time you’re in the city, consider trading pavement for boardwalks and skyscrapers for seabirds. Belle Isle Marsh is waiting — and it has wings.