Connecticut Ornithological Association | COA

CT Audubon Eco Travel -Tree Swallow Cruises: Aug 30; Sept 5; Sept 13; Sept 20, 2026
2026-09-20 15:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Essex Steam Train, 30 Plains Road, Essex, CT, 06426, United States
Tree Swallow Cruises

Witness one of the most spectacular avian events when thousands of Tree Swallows congregate on the lower Connecticut River at sunset to settle in on a giant communal roost during their fall migration. Birds come from miles away, creating a ballet of synchronized flight before settling down for the night. Renowned ornithologist and artist Roger Tory Peterson wrote that “the tornadoes of Tree Swallows eclipsed any other avian spectacle I have ever seen.” Join Connecticut Audubon naturalists and journey from Essex, by train and then by boat to see the awe–inspiring display. Enjoy picturesque scenery from the 70–foot Mississippi–style river boat’s three decks. Snacks, a full bar, and restrooms are available on board. If you take only one trip this fall, make sure it’s this one!
Tours are approximately three and a half hours in length and vary in departure time from 3:30 – 5 pm, depending on the date chosen (the later in the month, the earlier the departure time).
Tours depart from the Essex Steam Train & River Boat in Essex. Appropriate for children eight years and over.

Aug 30; Sept 5; Sept 13; Sept 20
4:30pm – 8:30pm OR 3:30pm – 8:00pm
Essex, CT
Led By Matt Bell
Members: $55
Non-Members: $55
For more info and to register:
(860) 767-0660
ecotravel@ctaudubon.org

Register here: Tree Swallow Cruises | Aug 30; Sept 5; Sept 13; Sept 204:30pm – 8:30pm OR 3:30pm – 8:00pm | The Connecticut Audubon Society

Friends of Greenwich Point: First Sunday Bird Walk at Greenwich Point
2026-10-04 09:00 - 11:30, 2026-11-01 09:00 - 11:30, 2026-12-06 09:00 - 11:30 | Greenwich Point Park, 11 Tod's Driftway, Old Greenwich, CT, 06870, United States
Bring binoculars and join us for a casual walk around Greenwich Point Park, Old Greenwich, CT, in search of wild birds in diverse habitats. Held year-round on the first Sunday of every month at Greenwich Point Park, the walk begins at 9:00 am near the southern concession stand near the flagpole on the main beach. The walk lasts from 2 – 3 hours, but participants can leave at any time. All ages and levels of expertise are welcome.
No registration is required and the walk is free. For access for those without beach cards (normally restricted from April – October), let the front gate staff know you are coming for the bird walk for complimentary entry.
Sponsored by Friends of Greenwich Point.

New Haven Bird Club: The Big Sit
2026-10-10 08:00 - 2026-10-11 17:00 | Connecticut, CT, United States
The Big Sit!™ 2026

October 10, 2026 – October 11, 2026

The Big Sit! is on! And has migrated back to the New Haven Bird Club, where it began in 1992. Although there are a few changes, most stays the same, including the primary rule: HAVE FUN! The Big Sit is a semi-competitive birding event originated by the New Haven Bird Club. It is open and FREE to anyone (individuals and teams) all over the world! How many birds can you identify in one day while staying within a 17-foot / 5.2-meter diameter circle? That’s the challenge of The Big Sit!
Final dates/times and registration will be announced in 2026! Visit the Big Sit website for more information.
The Big Sit!™ is a registered trademark of the New Haven Bird Club, Inc.
