In the early 1800s, cities were crowded and green space was limited, leading to the rise of the rural cemetery movement. Designed with winding paths, rolling hills, and carefully planted trees, cemeteries became places for leisure and communing with nature. Families would gather for picnics near a loved one’s grave, and visitors would stroll the grounds to enjoy the scenery and step away from the noise of urban life.

Those same design elements have also created unexpected benefits for wildlife. The quiet surroundings, clusters of mature trees, and stretches of open green space provide habitat for birds and other species.

For birders, that makes cemeteries an unexpected but rewarding place to explore. Birding is simply the practice of observing and identifying birds in their natural environment by sight or sound. In a city like Philadelphia, where development often replaces natural space, cemeteries offer a rare opportunity to slow down and connect with the outdoors. Cemeteries are often overlooked as birding hotspots, perhaps because they are traditionally viewed as places of mourning and reflection.  However, those willing to look closer may be surprised by what they find.

Spanning more than 200 acres along Cobbs Creek Parkway, Mount Moriah is the largest cemetery in the city. While it is best known for its history, it has also become an important refuge for birds, supporting a wide range of species throughout the year. That variety is part of what makes our grounds so special.

Whether you’re brand new to bird watching or looking for your next great birding spot, Mount Moriah offers plenty to discover. 

Common Bird Species At Mount Moriah

Mount Moriah’s diverse landscape supports a wide variety of bird species throughout the year. Some birds can be spotted regularly across the grounds, while others appear during migration or at specific times of year.

Here are a few species you may find:

• Rock Pigeon
• Red-bellied Woodpecker
• House Finch
• Gold Finch
• Eastern Bluebird
• Blue Jay
• American Robin
• Northern Cardinal
• Mockingbird
• Red-tailed Hawk
• Red-shouldered Hawk
• American Kestrel
• Cooper’s Hawk
• Gray Catbird
• Great Blue Heron
• Tree Swallow
• European Starling
• Downy Woodpecker
• Pileated Woodpecker
• Northern Flicker
• Canada Goose

For a look at recent sightings, check out Mount Moriah’s eBird hotspot page. Birders regularly log their observations from both the Kingsessing and Yeadon sides of the cemetery, creating a record of the many species found across the grounds.

Tips & Tricks Birding in Cemeteries

If you are new to birding, a few simple tools and habits can help make your experience more enjoyable and rewarding.

Download the Merlin Bird ID app before you go. This free app can help you identify birds by both sight and sound. Even if you only catch a brief call or song, the app can help you figure out what species you are hearing.

Bring binoculars if you have them. You can spot plenty of birds without any equipment, but binoculars make it easier to observe details that might otherwise be missed, especially when birds are perched high in trees or farther away.

Practice cemetery etiquette. While cemeteries can be wonderful places to observe wildlife, their primary purpose is to provide a place of rest and reflection. Be respectful of graves, visitors, and the environment that makes birding possible.

Connect with other birders. Local birding groups are a great way to meet fellow enthusiasts, learn from more experienced birders, and discover new spots to try. Groups like BirdPhilly and Philly Queer Birders are great places to start.

Experience Mount Moriah’s History and Wildlife

Mount Moriah is open to the public, and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds. The Kingsessing Avenue gate and the Yeadon gate off Cobbs Creek Parkway are typically open Saturdays and Sundays from approximately 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Because our gates are opened by volunteers, hours may vary due to weather, holidays, or volunteer availability.

For more information about visiting Mount Moriah, please visit our Visitor Information page.