Birdcraft Museum

General Information

Founded in 1914, Birdcraft is the first private bird sanctuary in the United States and is a National Historic Landmark.

This six-acre site was originally planted as a refuge to attract, harbor and feed migratory and resident birds. More than 120 bird species have been recorded on its grounds. It is also a federally-licensed bird-banding station.

The Grounds at Birdcraft

The grounds at Birdcraft include the Birdcraft Sanctuary and the Museum and Caretakers Cottage. The sanctuary consists of a pond and gardens that have been planted to attract birds and butterflies. Much of the sanctuary grounds have been restored and are maintained by the Sasqua Garden Club. The sanctuary is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk.

The Museum* and Cottage were the original headquarters of the Connecticut Audubon Society. Birdcraft was created in 1914 by Mabel Osgood Wright, the founder of the Connecticut Audubon Society. You can read a short history of Birdcraft and biography of Wright here.