About NHBC

Aims and Organization

The New Haven Bird Club was organized on April 3, 1907, the seventieth anniversary of the birth of John Burroughs (1837-1921), naturalist and author. The NHBC is one of the oldest birding groups in the US and works cooperatively with local organizations that share our goals and interests including the New Haven Parks department,  Audubon Connecticut leaders and local chapters.

The stated aim of the NHBC is to make available to members and the general public more opportunities for recreation and education in bird watching.  The NHBC is dedicated to the conservation of natural resources in New Haven and surrounding areas.  It works with other regional groups on conservation issues including the preservation of Long Wharf and Milford Point, areas noted for shorebirds.

Field Trips

Club members lead trips to both local and regional birding areas.  Trips are geared for all levels of birding and walks for beginners are regularly scheduled.  Special children’s trips are held several times a year. All trips are free and open to the public.

Area Specialties

Hawk Watch at Lighthouse Point Park.  An annual census of hawks is conducted from September through November.  The park is also noted for an impressive landbird migration.

The warbler migration in East Rock Park from late April through May attracts birders from throughout New England.

Easy access to many additional coastal birding sites including Hammonasset State Park, Sandy Point and Milford Point.

Activities

Indoor meetings are held monthly from autumn through spring.  Guest speakers include well-known ornithologists, birders, and naturalists discussing a range of topics relating to birds.  All meetings are free and open to the public.

Participating in the National Audubon Christmas Bird Count in December.

Participate in the Mega Bowl of Birding in February

Conducting a summer bird count in June.

Feeder survey of birds from November to March.

“The Big Sit” in which bird counts are compiled from 17′ circles.

Publications

Checklist of Birds of New Haven County (revised 2018).

An annual yearbook listing field trips, indoor meetings and a list of members.

Newsletters published periodically throughout the year.

Become a member of the New Haven Bird Club!  Click here to learn how!