Coasts

Protecting Connecticut's coasts for birds and people

American Oystercatcher. Photo: Walker Golder/Audubon

Connecticut’s coastlines and associated marshes, islands, and beaches are being squeezed by rising sea levels and human development. The ecosystem is critical to protecting birds and people, and we need your help to keep it healthy.

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MAKING A DIFFERENCE FROM SAND TO SKY

More than 23 million people live within a 50-mile radius of Long Island Sound, making this landscape one of the most densely populated regions in the United States. It’s also a critically important area for vulnerable birds like the Piping Plover, Roseate Tern, American Oystercatcher, and Saltmarsh Sparrow.

To help at-risk species, our conservation staff, volunteers, and partners are protecting and restoring the places birds need to safely rest during migration and raise their young.

In doing so, we can also help communities prepare for and feel less of an impact from extreme coastal events.

Strengthening our Coastline

Building a Stronger, Resilient Connecticut Coast
Coasts

Building a Stronger, Resilient Connecticut Coast

Rising sea levels, stronger storms, and human development are squeezing salt marshes and beaches across the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean coastlines.

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Stratford’s Great Meadows Salt Marsh Gets a $4M Refresh
Coasts

Stratford’s Great Meadows Salt Marsh Gets a $4M Refresh

12 local “Salt Marsh Stewards” from Stratford and Bunnell high schools, along with three crew leaders, over 150 volunteers, elected officials, and partners, have helped turn the marsh back into a haven for wildlife and the local community.

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Protecting Beach-Nesting Birds

Resources to Protect Shore-Nesting Birds
Coasts

Resources to Protect Shore-Nesting Birds

Together, we can #ShareTheShore to help birds nest and raise their young successfully.

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Share the Love, #ShareTheShore
Coasts

Share the Love, #ShareTheShore

A community campaign to protect shore-nesting birds! Together, we can make waves for safer beaches.

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2022 Shorebird and Seabird Conservation Highlights
News

2022 Shorebird and Seabird Conservation Highlights

Thanks to our staff, volunteers, and partners, 2022 has been one of our best seasons yet!

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Birds That Depend on Our Coast

News from the Coast

2023 Coastal Season Report Out
Coasts

2023 Coastal Season Report Out

Over 20,000 marsh grasses planted, youth employment expands, shorebirds have a record-breaking year

Restored Salt Marsh Becomes Hub for Science Research
News

Restored Salt Marsh Becomes Hub for Science Research

The newly-restored Great Meadows Marsh in Stratford hosts UConn, Yale students and local scientists looking to learn more about climate change and healthy habitats.

Least Tern Nest, Protected by the Connecticut State Endangered Species Act, Trampled by Off Leash Dog at Connecticut State Park
News

Least Tern Nest, Protected by the Connecticut State Endangered Species Act, Trampled by Off Leash Dog at Connecticut State Park

In situations like this, a pet’s owner could face up to $20,000 in associated fines.

Nearly $1M Awarded to Audubon Conservation Projects in Connecticut and New York
News

Nearly $1M Awarded to Audubon Conservation Projects in Connecticut and New York

Funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation will allow Audubon Connecticut and New York to continue and start new conservation projects.

2022 Shorebird and Seabird Conservation Highlights
News

2022 Shorebird and Seabird Conservation Highlights

Thanks to our staff, volunteers, and partners, 2022 has been one of our best seasons yet!

Mugwort Banished, Trails Created to Bring Oneida Sanctuary to Life
Greenwich Audubon Center

Mugwort Banished, Trails Created to Bring Oneida Sanctuary to Life

No experience working in gardens, with hand tools, or in land management? No problem for the Eco Leadership Corps!

Stratford’s Great Meadows Salt Marsh Gets a $4M Refresh
Coasts

Stratford’s Great Meadows Salt Marsh Gets a $4M Refresh

12 local “Salt Marsh Stewards” from Stratford and Bunnell high schools, along with three crew leaders, over 150 volunteers, elected officials, and partners, have helped turn the marsh back into a haven for wildlife and the local community.

A "Swap Day" for Connecticut's Student Conservationists
News

A "Swap Day" for Connecticut's Student Conservationists

Junior Forest Technicians and WildLife Guards traveled from woodlands to water to learn more about conservation in Connecticut.

Over 138,000 Plugs Planted at Great Meadows Marsh
Conservation

Over 138,000 Plugs Planted at Great Meadows Marsh

Salt Marsh Stewards wrap up a successful season, Saltmarsh Sparrow nests discovered.

How to Know If a Shorebird Is Being Disturbed
Coasts

How to Know If a Shorebird Is Being Disturbed

Learn the signs of bird disturbance and what you can do to help beach-nesting birds.

How you can help, right now