Offshore wind holds incredible potential to help meet the clean energy goals needed for a healthy climate. The Gulf of Maine, in particular, with its strong, sustained winds, is one of the best locations in the world to harness renewable wind energy. However, offshore wind development must be sited with care to avoid potential conflicts […]
Birds
Maine Audubon Advocates for Maine Wildlife in Congress
In early April, Maine Audubon’s Advocacy and Outreach Manager, Nick Lund, traveled to Washington to talk birds. A guest of the American Bird Conservancy, Nick joined state-based advocates from around the country to encourage Congressional leaders to support a variety of wildlife bills. Nick’s group included advocates from Connecticut Audubon and the Missouri River Bird […]
Backyard Bird of the Month for April: Brown Creeper
The Brown Creeper is a small, unique bird, which can be found all over Maine but is often under-detected because of its remarkable plumage. Coming in at just over five inches long, these little brown birds sport a splotchy brown back complete with slender streaks making them completely camouflaged against brindled bark. They use their […]
Backyard bird of the month for March: Downy Woodpecker
The smallest woodpecker in Maine, the Downy Woodpecker is a common species that can be found around any deciduous woods. This species looks very similar to its large cousin, the Hairy Woodpecker, though the alliterative mnemonic that “downy is diminutive” may help you remember which is smaller. Downies are active around feeders throughout the winter, […]
Join us for Arizona birding in May
As I write this, it is a cold and dreary late February day . . . Our bird walk at Gilsland Farm this morning had only a dozen species (a few Gadwall were a nice surprise) . . . But looking at the calendar, it warmed my spirits to see that it’s only a couple […]
Backyard Bird of the Month for February: American Crow
One of the most ubiquitous birds around, the American Crow is a bird often seen from your yard but not often thought of as a “backyard bird” since they rarely come to feeders. Crows are very opportunistic, being both omnivores and scavengers, so they are just as likely to steal a big chunk of suet […]
Snowy Owls in Winter 2024/25
As we begin the new year, though it has felt like a pretty below-average year for snow accumulation so far here in southern Maine, it has turned out to be an above-average year for Snowies. Yes, Snowy Owls are coming south! This is always a fun and exciting time for birders and owl aficionados as […]
Want to Help Wildlife? There’s a Community Science Project for Everyone
Community Science is your chance to join friends, neighbors, students, and teachers in collecting valuable scientific data on wildlife in Maine. Your sightings will help us better understand, protect, and conserve Maine native wildlife and habitat. From projects led by Maine Audubon to others spearheaded by the state Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, there’s […]
State Sand Dune Restoration Fund Now Taking Applications!
Coastal sand dunes are one of the rarest habitats in Maine, making up just about 2% of the state’s coastline. Built over time by the actions of wind and waves, dunes and associated beaches and salt marshes provide invaluable ecosystem services and economic benefits. The importance of coastal dunes is increasing as climate change causes […]