Clubs and Organizations
March 27, 2023
From: Fairfield Migration MadnessJoin Us on Our Upcoming Adventures!
Hello Travelers!
Spring is finally here, and migration is underway! In just a few, short weeks yards throughout the state will be full of birdsong as migrants rehearse on their way to breeding grounds. In fact, Eastern Phoebes and American Woodcocks have been seen over the last week, singing and displaying in search of mates. Join us on one of our upcoming day trips, as we welcome the warm weather and neotropical migrants! Some of our favorites can be found below, but be sure to check out the Day Trips page to see the full selection.
Early Spring Migrants
Thursday, April 27 6 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Late April is the beginning of the intense migration period when birds head north to summer haunts. With favorable weather and winds, some species get a head start and we plan to greet them! Visit places known for their great diversity of migrants to see them in nuptial plumage and listen to their spring songs. Trip departs from Essex.
Leader: Matt Bell.
Fee: $90. Members: $75.
Central Park in Spring
Saturday, May 6 6:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Located in the heart of New York City, Central Park is also a well-known birding destination. With little green space in the surrounding area, migrants drop into the park after a night of exhausted flying. Visit the city by train, and then enjoy a mile-long walk to the park down 5th Avenue. Search for recently arrived warblers and other species welcoming spring back. Departure will be from New Haven.
Leader: Jim Sherwonit.
Fee: $100. Members: $85. Train tickets are not included in the cost of the trip.
Annual Lyme Loop
Thursday, May 11 6 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Travel through Lyme and Nehantic State Forest in search of neotropical migrants. The habitats of the state forest include wetlands, streams, and ponds, all excellent places for the morning chorus of warblers, vireos, and other songbirds. Focus will be on learning bird songs.
Leader: Andy Griswold.
Fee: $90. Members: $75.
Connecticut Audubon’s Croft Preserve
Monday, May 29 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Located in Goshen, Connecticut Audubon’s Croft Preserve is within one of the largest continual forest blocks in the state. The fantastic mix of habitats found throughout the preserve is home to uncommon and rare breeding species, including Ruffed Grouse and Northern Goshawk. Since the property is managed primarily for wildlife, the trails are steep and challenging to navigate, and may include off trail exploration as well.
Leader: Matt Bell.
Fee: $100. Members: $85.
Eagle/Osprey Boats
DATE CHANGE
Saturday,
May 6th
9 a.m. and 12 p.m. Departures
Connecticut Audubon Society EcoTravel will again offer boat cruises to search for Bald Eagle, Osprey, and other bird species migrating and nesting along the Connecticut River. Bald Eagle can be found along the lower river, a habitat that hosts a transient winter population as well as nesting residents. Naturalists are on board the vessel to share information about the Connecticut River, the bird life, and natural history. The vessel has a heated cabin, restrooms, and three decks for optimal viewing.
Tours are approximately three hours in length and depart at 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. from Essex Steam Train in Essex. Appropriate for children eight years old and over. Food and drink available on board. Enjoy the beauty of the Connecticut River in spring!
Fee: $45 for Members and Nonmembers. Reserve online (click below) or call us at 860-767-0660.
12 p.m. Departure Call for Availability, Limited Space Remaining
Check our most recent newsletter for more upcoming adventures!