The Audubon Center in Massachusetts Where You’ll See More Than 20 Bird Species in a Single Afternoon

As I have gotten older, I have developed a stronger appreciation for the creatures and critters that live in the great outdoors. Bird watching has become a new hobby and I have added feeders, regional bird guides, and binoculars to my collection of personal possessions. While I love watching the various species of birds that visit my window feeder throughout the day, I also enjoy getting outdoors to view birds in their natural habitats. Did you know there are over 500 species of birds in the Bay State? There are tons of wonderful local nature trails and sanctuaries where you can view these creatures. Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge in Concord and Sudbury is one spot where you will see a variety of beautiful birds.

The Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is a 12-mile-long conservation area on river wetlands. The two primary units of the refuge are Sudbury and Concord. Both offer a variety of beautiful landscapes and activities, but you will want to head to the Concord unit for the best bird watching. Please be aware there is an entrance fee.

Over 220 species of birds have been sighted and recorded at Great Meadows. The species and numbers vary throughout the year. In the summer, you may spot geese, red-winged blackbirds, and mallards in the wetlands. Some hawks remain in the area in the fall and songbirds such as the black-capped chickadee can still be seen in the winter. Spring is the best time to view migratory birds such as ring-necked ducks, tree swallows, and warblers.

And the wildlife sanctuary is not just for the birds! There are also foxes, frogs, bats, deer, black bears, and beavers. A large group of endangered Blanding’s turtles can also be found here. The sanctuary offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, non-motorized boating, and cross-country skiing, too.

Be sure to bring a helpful bird guide, such as the "Birds of Massachusetts Field Guide" by Stan Tekiela, and a good pair of binoculars. You can view wildlife from the trails, an observational platform, and an observation tower.      

Have you visited Great Meadows National Wildlife Sanctuary? Where else do you like to bird watch? More information about the sanctuary can be found at the Great Meadows National Wildlife Sanctuary website. Visit Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in Wellfleet and the Fruitlands Museum in Harvard for more fantastic local birding.