The Town of Bird Cove was first settled in 1873 by Michael Meaney and his family. The town was incorporated on April 18, 1977.

Fishing, mainly for lobster, cod and herring was the traditional source of employment for residents. The discovery of aboriginal archeological sites in the 1990's has created a new industry based on tourism

Thirty - eight archaeological sites have been discovered of which seven has been excavated. The 50 Centuries Society was established by residents and community partners to promote the discoveries. One of the many significant finds has been a living site of the Maritime Archaic Indians, dating back to 4350 BC, the first of its kind to be discovered. The former Michael Hayes Elementary School has been turned into the 50 Centuries Interpretation Centre to showcase the different cultures and heritage of the area.

Bird Cove, like many towns on the Great Northern Peninsula, has a small and aging population. The town has responded by developing its tourism potential and developing programs to support aging residents. The Town did see a significant increase in population in the past few years due to various developments and new services provided to all age groups in the town and region.

The town has supported the Going Healthy Program, funded and supported by a variety of organizations and volunteers. It is ongoing in the community building and promotes healthy lifestyle options.

Community and business services for Bird Cove residents include a K-12 school, Viking Trail Academy (located 6 kms in Plum Point). Health care is provided 40kms north at the Strait of Belle Isle Health Centre in Flowers Cove Clinic or 110 kms south in Port Saunders at the Rufus Guinchard Health Centre. A regional fire service that covers five communities from Bird Cove to Pond Cove is based out of Bird Cove. Additional community, recreational and business services are found in the communities in the Plum Point (6kms) and St. Barbe (15kms) area and south (110 kms) in Hawkes Bay, Port au Choix & Port Saunders.

In addition to visiting aboriginal archeological sites tourist can hike the trail system on Dog Peninsula. There is an abundance of birds to view.