Connecticut Birding Hotspot: Audubon Center at Bent of the River, Southbury, CT
Bent of the River in Southbury, CT is an Audubon sanctuary and recognized Important Bird Area (IBA), and a wonderful spot for observing birds, plants, and other wildlife.
The sanctuary property comprises approximately 700 acres of varied habitats including sandy riverbanks, floodplain, wetlands, vernal pools, a variety of upland forest types, grasslands and one of the largest managed early successional scrubland habitats in the state. The sanctuary property abuts over 700 acres of other conservation lands, which together provide an excellent variety of habitats for migratory and seasonal resident birds. About 175 bird species have been recorded at Bent of the River, including 27 species of warblers, and numerous species of high conservation priority. Early successional habitats found at Bent of the River provide nesting habitat for species such as blue-winged warbler, prairie warbler, American woodcock, orchard oriole, and eastern kingbird.
A nature center provides opportunities for environmental education, and 15 miles of walking trails provide access for birdwatching and other exploration. In addition to being an excellent birding spot, Bent of the River also provides habitats for numerous species of insects, reptiles, amphibians, and plants not commonly seen in Connecticut.
Audubon Center at Bent of the River can be accessed by exit 14 off Interstate 84. Proceed north on Route 172 for 1 mile to the village of South Britain. At the General Store make a left onto East Flat Hill Road. The entrance to the sanctuary is 0.4 miles along on the left at the green mailbox.
Have a look at the Field Trips section of the newsletter for an upcoming walk at Bent of the River. And check back with us after the walk at www.menunkatuck.org for photos and lists of sitings.
Submitted by Nina Levenduski
Reference used: http://ct.audubon.org