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Audubon Bird Sanctuary: A Coastal Haven for Migratory Birds

Explore a globally important bird migration site with diverse habitats and scenic trails on Dauphin Island's Audubon Bird Sanctuary.

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The Audubon Bird Sanctuary on Dauphin Island is a 164-acre preserve recognized as one of the top locations in North America for viewing spring bird migrations [3, 5]. It provides critical habitat for neo-tropical migrants and numerous native species, featuring diverse ecosystems from maritime forests to Gulf beaches [3, 4].

A brief summary to Audubon Bird Sanctuary

  • 211 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528, US
  • +1251-861-3607
  • Monday 7 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-7 pm
  • Friday 7 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during spring or fall migration for the best birdwatching opportunities [3, 4].
  • Bring binoculars and a bird guide to enhance your viewing experience [4, 22].
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails; some paths may have uneven surfaces [5, 18].
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Fort Gaines to explore the island's history [5].
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as the island can experience sudden changes [24].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the center of Dauphin Island, head east on Bienville Boulevard [3, 4]. The Audubon Bird Sanctuary is located on the right side of the road at 211 Bienville Blvd, a short drive from Fort Gaines [3, 4]. Parking is available in the sanctuary's parking lot [20, 21]. Parking is free. Be aware that traffic can be heavy near the elementary school during school hours [24].

  • Walking

    From Fort Gaines, walk west along Bienville Boulevard [3, 4]. The Audubon Bird Sanctuary will be on your left, approximately a 30-minute walk [4]. There are no sidewalks for a portion of the route, so exercise caution [3, 4].

  • Ride-sharing

    Utilize ride-sharing services like Uber or local taxis from anywhere on Dauphin Island [7, 15]. Input 'Audubon Bird Sanctuary' as your destination. Fares vary depending on the distance and demand, but expect to pay around $10-$20 for a short trip within Dauphin Island [15].

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Discover more about Audubon Bird Sanctuary

The Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary, a 164-acre natural haven, is located on the eastern end of Dauphin Island, a 14-mile-long barrier island off the Alabama Gulf Coast [3, 5]. This sanctuary is globally recognized as a crucial stopover for migratory birds, offering a safe and resource-rich environment after their long journey across the Gulf of Mexico [3, 5]. The sanctuary features a diverse range of habitats, including maritime forests, marshes, dunes, a freshwater lake, a swamp, and a beach [3, 5]. These varied ecosystems support an impressive array of bird species; over 420 species have been observed on the island, representing 95% of all species officially documented in Alabama [3]. The 3-mile trail system, designated as a National Recreational Trail, allows visitors to explore these habitats while minimizing disturbance to the wildlife [3, 5]. A 1,000-foot accessible boardwalk extends from the parking lot to Gaillard Lake, offering a scenic and accessible route for all visitors [5, 8]. Beyond its ecological importance, the sanctuary also holds historical significance. The area was once part of the battlefield during the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864 [5, 23]. Today, visitors can walk from the beach to nearby Fort Gaines, a historic site that played a key role in the Civil War [5]. The Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, observe diverse birdlife, and appreciate the coastal environment [4, 6].

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