Where: Alabama.

What: This trail, a series of six loops, represents a variety of ecosystems, from the beach and sea-oat habitat of Gulf State Park near Perdido Bay to the largely maritime pine forest of the Dauphin Island Audubon Sanctuary, a hot spot during spring migration. Up in the Mobile Tensaw delta, you can abandon your car in favor of a guided swamp tour up Chickasabogue Creek aboard Wildland Expeditions' Gator Bait.

Look for: Reddish egret

Contact: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau
877-226-9089
www.alabamacoastalbirdingtrail.com.