Woman holding binoculars Join today and get outside at one of our 60+ wildlife sanctuaries.
Woman holding binoculars Join today and get outside at one of our 60+ wildlife sanctuaries.
goldfinches flying in a grassy field with wild flowers
American Goldfinches © Phil Frank

Protecting Birds & Wildlife

In order to make smart and effective conservation choices, we need a good understanding of how the birds and wildlife of Massachusetts are doing and where they might need concentrated attention.

Why Protecting Birds & Wildlife Matters

Not only do birds and wildlife provide endless enjoyment to birders and nature enthusiasts, but they are also indicators to the health of our planet. 

What Mass Audubon is Doing to Protect Birds & Wildlife

Mass Audubon works at our wildlife sanctuaries and beyond to ensure that the nature of Massachusetts continues to thrive.

By scientifically monitoring Massachusetts wildlife, Mass Audubon informs important conservation decisions and launches targeted initiatives to help at-risk species. 

Our approach involves:

  • Creating and enhancing habitat on our properties.
  • Supporting native plants and wildlife across the state through active land management, species monitoring, and field research.
  • Educating and engaging people in learning more about native wildlife through public programs and community science projects.
Blackburnian Warbler with a yellow head, white belly, and black bands on the side, looking out into the distance from its position on a stick.
Blackburnian Warbler, Marblehead Neck, Marblehead

Bird Conservation

We monitor, protect, and research breeding and migratory birds.

Porcupine in the grass.
Old Baldy, Otis

Learn About Wildlife

Get information about common birds, mammals, insects, reptiles, and amphibians found in Massachusetts.

Climate researchers in the field during summer © Janice Corkin Rudolf
© Janice Corkin Rudolf

Apply to Research

Mass Audubon welcomes applications to conduct research projects at our wildlife sanctuaries.

Sea Turtle Rescue Field School participants © Esther Horvath
© Esther Horvath

Sea Turtles

Ever year, thousands of sea turtles get "cold-stunned" and wash up on the beaches of Cape Cod. 

Group of horseshoe crabs

Horseshoe Crabs

The Commonwealth's population of these incredible marine animals is in decline and facing increasing threats to their survival.

Emerging Diamondback Terrapin hatchling emerging from egg © Ron Kielb
Diamondback Terrapin © Ron Kielb

Diamondback Terrapins

The species, once nearly hunted to extinction, is once again threatened by increased predation, habitat loss, and the wildlife pet trade.

Featured Stories

Our Impact

Thanks to our members, volunteers, and staff, we have made an incredible difference in protecting wildlife.

  • 800+

    Cold-stunned sea turtles rescued on the Cape by Wellfeet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary staff and volunteers

  • 1,200+

    Bobolinks fledged on our wildlife sanctuaries and private lands protected through The Bobolink Project

  • 170

    Species found across our wildlife sanctuaries that are state-listed as Special Concern, Endangered, or Threatened

Three young adults kneeling on a boardwalk
Broadmoor

Take Action

We need your curiosity, commitment, and passion to ensure that our lands become more resilient, that more people than ever experience the magic of nature, and that we fight climate change—now and in the future.

Become a Member

Make a lasting impact for people and wildlife.

Join Today

Advocate

Help bring about nature-based climate solutions.

Speak Up

Donate

Be a force to protect the nature of Massachusetts.

Make a Gift