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Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary: A Coastal Haven

Explore a coastal bird sanctuary in West Haven, CT: a haven for migratory birds, nature trails, and tranquil views of Long Island Sound.

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Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary in West Haven, CT, is a serene coastal sanctuary and a vital stopover for migratory birds. This 60-acre area features a diverse habitat of barrier beach, tidal creek, and salt marsh, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.
  • Check the সিটি of West Haven's website for seasonal parking information and any temporary closures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and beach.
  • Respect wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and following posted guidelines, especially during nesting seasons.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving, head to West Haven, CT. From I-95, take Exit 43 for US-1 toward West Haven. Merge onto US-1 (Boston Post Road) and continue for approximately 2 miles. Turn left onto Beach Street and follow it to Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary. Limited parking is available on Beach Street. Parking fees may apply.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary via public transportation, take a Metro-North train to the West Haven station. From the station, catch the Connecticut Transit bus #204 towards New Haven. Get off at the stop on US-1 and Beach Street. From there, it is about a 15-minute walk to Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary along Beach Street. A single bus fare is about $1.75.

  • Walking

    If you're already in the West Haven beach area, walking to Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary is a pleasant option. Head north along the shoreline, then turn onto Beach Street. The sanctuary is located at the end of Beach Street, offering a scenic walk along the water.

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Discover more about Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary

Sandy Point Bird Sanctuary, located in West Haven, Connecticut, is a premier destination for birdwatching and a peaceful retreat into nature. Situated at the mouth of New Haven Harbor on Long Island Sound, this 60-acre sanctuary features a diverse array of habitats, including a barrier beach, tidal creek, salt marsh, and mudflats. These interconnected ecosystems create an ideal environment for a wide variety of bird species, making it an Important Bird Area recognized by Audubon Connecticut. Sandy Point is particularly renowned as a crucial migratory stopover for shorebirds. Birdwatchers can observe species such as piping plovers, least terns, American oystercatchers, and semipalmated sandpipers. The sanctuary's designation as part of the Connecticut Coastal Birding Trail highlights its significance for avian conservation and observation. In addition to its avian residents, Sandy Point also supports a variety of other wildlife, including horseshoe crabs. Over the years, Sandy Point has transformed from a neglected area into a flourishing sanctuary. Efforts by local residents, the City of West Haven, and organizations like the West Haven Watershed Restoration Committee have led to significant improvements, including the removal of invasive species, the planting of native vegetation, and the creation of bird and butterfly gardens. An observation deck provides accessible viewing opportunities for birdwatchers. The sanctuary also features a 1.7-mile recreation path that connects West Haven's beaches, offering scenic views of Long Island Sound for pedestrians, cyclists, and rollerbladers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Sandy Point, including birdwatching, walking along the beach, and photography. The best time for birdwatching is typically from April to October, when shorebirds are nesting and various species are most active.

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