Return of The Osprey

Located next to the 840-acre Charles Wheeler Salt Marsh and Wildlife Management Area at the mouth of the Housatonic River, The Coastal Center’s grounds encompass the 8-acre Smith-Hubbell Wildlife Refuge and Bird Sanctuary, a boardwalk and three other observation platforms, including a 70-foot covered tower for panoramic vistas.

Between educating hundreds of school-age students, summer campers, and adults annually during bird walks and other programs, Coastal Center staff strive to promote the awareness and preservation of Long Island Sound’s ecosystem, and the birds and habitats it supports. The 25,000+ annual visitors to the Center have access to the Sound and to tidal salt marshes, barrier beaches, tide pools, and coastal dunes, making it one of the most significant birding locations in Connecticut.

As a part of statewide initiatives, the Coastal Center also participates in the conservation of several protected species, especially Osprey, Purple Martins, and Piping Plovers. The sanctuary these animals live in is carefully maintained, and constantly improved, to help them thrive.