Greewich Audubon Hawk Watch Fest 2026
Greenwich Audubon Center is thrilled to announce our annual celebration of the importance of birds of prey and their incredible migratory journeys.
Meet hawks and owls up close during live raptor presentations, and learn more about identifying the hawks and other raptors flying overhead during workshops lead by our naturalists!
Plus, enjoy live music by special guests and birding social media celebrities Tommy Siegel and Billy Libby of Extremely Accurate Birds. Delicious pizza will also be served by Greenwich's own Grigg Street Pizza!
Throughout the day, kids can explore the wonders of raptor migration with the Great Migration Game, owl pellet dissections, and other fun bird-themed crafts!
Lights Out Connecticut will have an exhibit
Monarchs, Meadows & Migration at Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary
As summer begins to turn toward fall, one of nature’s greatest journeys quietly begins. Monarch butterflies prepare for their incredible migration to Mexico while many native birds take to the skies for their own long journeys south. Monarchs, Meadows & Migration celebrates these remarkable travelers and the healthy habitats they depend on along the way.
Lights Out CT will have an exhibit
Lights Out CT & Dark Sky International Policy Potluck
Audubon Connecticut Policy Potluck Featuring Lights Out Connecticut and the Connecticut Chapter of Dark Sky International.
October 8, 2026
5:30 PM – 8 PM
Join us at Bent of the River for an informational evening with light refreshments and a panel discussion on advocacy efforts to mitigate light pollution and stop bird-window collisions in Connecticut.
Up to two billion birds are killed in window collisions every year. The deadliest times are during bird migration every Fall and Spring. The two factors are light pollution and glass. Please come to learn about efforts to pass laws and regulations on the local, regional and state levels.
Panelists are:
Leo Smith is the Northeast Regional Director and Connecticut Chapter Chair of DarkSky. He works strategically to protect the night across the United States by integrating Dark Sky lighting principles into national building codes. He developed language used to amend the CT State Building Code to cover parking lot lighting and introduced two code change proposals to NY State Energy Code in 2019. He was a member of the DarkSky International board of directors (2004-2016) and voting member of the Illuminating Engineering Society's Roadway Lighting Committee (2006-2019), serving on its Standard Practice and Residential Street Lighting subcommittees. He is a long-time resident of Suffield, CT.
Misha SemeLev, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, CPHC is an architect whose work explores how human habitats—buildings, cities, and regions—can be built more in harmony with the nature around us and within us. He is currently the Associate University Architect for Sustainability at Yale University, focused on integrating the University's sustainability goals across projects in close collaboration with the Office of Sustainability and other campus partners.He is lucky to call the beautiful Lower Connecticut River Valley his home, one he helps to preserve through his work as Chester representative to the Connecticut River Gateway Commission and advocate for dark skies along the river corridor.
Craig Repasz Lights Out Connecticut General Director and Co-founder is President of the Friends of Stewart B McKinney NWR, an organization devoted to supporting this important refuge. He was president of the New Haven Bird Club and the conservation chair of the Connecticut Ornithological Association. He has been the volunteer coordinator for the Connecticut Bird Atlas for six years. He enjoys backpacking and has conducted Mountain Birdwatch surveys for the Vermont Center of Ecostudies, focusing on the Bicknell's Thrush and other high elevation species.
This event will take place in our historic barn. Feel free to bring an appetizer of your own. We have limited Handicapped parking by the barn so we ask those who can, to park in our visitor lot and walk up to the barn. This program is free but registration is required for capacity.
CT DEEP Bat Appreciation Day at Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine
The 10th Annual Bat Appreciation Day at the Old New-Gate Prison and Copper Mine in East Granby will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM! The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Wildlife Division and Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) sponsor this celebration of bat conservation and Connecticut history. Bat Appreciation Day highlights the story of one of Connecticut’s most intriguing historical sites and its importance to the conservation of endangered species.
This event features bat activities for the whole family and includes exhibits, presentations, live bats, activities, bat story time, historical tales, the unique opportunity to sneak a peek at the “bat cave”, bat crafts, conservation partners, and more. Check out the tentative agenda (more updates to come).
How Outdoor Lights at Night Affect Birds, Moths and People
Event is at the Main Program Room at the Ridgefield Library
World Migratory Bird Day - Birdfest
eatures to Highlight about Birdfest 2026
Conservation Theme is "Every Bird Counts: Your Observations Matter!"
Focal conservation species are located here.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird and Barn Swallow are among them! 🙂
Goals of this Event:
Promote conservation education around birds, emphasizing conservation actions people can take to protect them.
Provide meaningful engagement opportunities for bird and nature enthusiasts.
Create an environment for future collaborations between like-minded organizations, through which we can leverage conservation opportunities for birds.
Wings in Motion: A Day of Discovery at Bent of the River Audubon Center
Saturday, May 2, 2026
7:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Rain date Saturday, May 3, 2026
Bent of the River Audubon Center
As winter turns into spring, birds migrate through Connecticut in the millions on their way to their breeding grounds.
Changes in weather, loss of habitat, window collisions, and light pollution all make this journey difficult, but Bent of the River Audubon Center and partners across the hemisphere work hard to conserve the habitat and put in place protections birds need to migrate successfully.
We're thrilled to invite you to Wings in Motion: A Day of Discovery at the Bent of the River Audubon Center — a special event celebrating birds, conservation, and community connection. Join us for a day filled with engaging workshops, a bird banding demo, a raptor show, collective art projects, and more—all guided by expert staff and speakers from the National Audubon Society and local partners.
Whether you're a seasoned conservationist or simply curious about the natural world, this event offers something for everyone. We hope you'll join us for this inspiring day of learning and discovery!
A light breakfast of bagels, fruit, juice, coffee, and tea will be provided. Water and snacks will be available throughout the day. You are welcome to bring your lunch to enjoy a picnic before the guided walk on the property.
Program Fee: $55 per person
Recommended for ages 13 and up
Pre-registration is required (space is limited)
For questions, please contact Allison Middlemass at allison.middlemass@audubon.org or 203-405-9115
Sponsored by the Menunkatuck Audubon Society.
Quinnipiac Earth Day Fair
Join us for the Earth Day fair on South Quad Thursday April 23rd during common to learn more about how you can get involved in protecting the environment! There will be free activities, information, and a food truck!
Prospect Land Trust Annual Meeting
The impacts of light pollution on human health and safety and on birds, plants and insects by Craig Repasz
Southbury Garden Club. Lights Out CT
Presentation: Light Pollution Impacts on Birds, Humans, and Wildlife
Lights Out Forum
Light Pollution and Its Effects on Birds, Wildlife, and Human Health: Learn How You Can Help
Chair and Co-founder of Lights Out CT Craig Repasz will will give us the facts we need to understand the problem of light pollution and help us be part of the solution — just in time for the spring bird migration.
Millions of birds pass through Connecticut every spring on their way to and from their summer nesting grounds. Because our state is located along the Atlantic Flyway, many birds use our shorelines and green spaces to rest and refuel during their trip.
But light pollution has wreaked havoc on our night sky. Artificial light emitted by our homes, buildings, streetlights, bridges, and other structures can confuse and disorient birds, causing them to land near buildings, crash into windows, and/or circle around for hours until they drop from exhaustion. The result is catastrophic: There are nearly 1 billion bird deaths in North America each year.
Light pollution also impacts other wildlife, human health, and energy waste.
Please come to learn about the problem and what could be done to mitigate the damage.
Light Pollution and its Effect on Birds, Wildlife, and Human Health: How You can Help
Join us in a three-part Policy Potluck series where we'll explore current local, state, and national legislation around birds and conservation, climate, and the actions we can take to support select bills and/or policies. Each program will feature speakers who are experts on their respective topics and a Q&A session. Bring your favorite dish to pass!
Millions of birds pass through Connecticut every spring and fall on their way to and from their summer nesting grounds. Because our state is located along the Atlantic Flyway, many birds use our shorelines and green spaces to rest and refuel during their trip. But light pollution has wreaked havoc on our night sky. Artificial light emitted by our homes, buildings, streetlights, bridges, and other structures can confuse and disorient birds, causing them to land near buildings, crash into windows, and/or circle around for hours until they drop from exhaustion. The result is catastrophic: There are over 1 billion bird deaths in North America each year. Light pollution also impacts other wildlife, human health, and energy waste.
Please come to learn about the problem and what could be done to mitigate the damage in your home and community.
Fee: FREE
Suitable for ages 15+
Online pre-registration required.
Wings in Motion: A Day of Discovery at the Bent of the River Audubon Center
As summer turns into fall, birds migrate through Connecticut in the millions on their way to their wintering grounds. Changes in weather, loss of habitat, window collisions, and light pollution all make this journey difficult, but the Bent of the River Audubon Center and partners across the hemisphere work hard to conserve the habitat and put in place protections birds need to migrate successfully.
On Saturday, September 20, we invite you to learn more about this essential work and become part of it at Wings in Motion: A Day of Discovery at the Bent of the River Audubon Center!
During this immersive, full-day experience, you’ll expand your understanding of migration and witness it up close with engaging workshops, live bird demonstrations, collective art projects, and more—all guided by expert staff and speakers from the National Audubon Society and local partners.
Whether you’re a seasoned conservationist or simply bird curious, this day of discovery offers something for everyone! Purchase your ticket today.
Event Details
Wings in Motion: A Day of Discovery at the Bent of the River Audubon Center
Saturday, September 20
Bent of the River Audubon Center (185 East Flat Hill Road, Southbury, CT)
7:30 AM – 1:30 PM
$55 per person
Recommended for ages 13 and up.
Space is limited. Advance registration is required.
Visit our website for the full event schedule and more!
For more information, reach out at kate.pratt@audubon.org or 203-405-9113.
Reducing Light Pollution in Suffield: Benifits for Birds, Bugs, Bats...and PEOPLE!
Please join Lights Out CT partner and advisor Leo Smith from Dark Sky International for a discusssion on light pollution.
Lights Out Connecticut Lecture The Effects of Light Pollution on Birds, Wildlife, and Humans Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.
Our state is located along the Atlantic Flyway, so many birds use our shoreline and green spaces to rest and refuel during their trip north. Artificial light emitted by houses, buildings, streetlights, bridges, and other structure can confuse and disorient birds, causing them to land near buildings, crash into windows, or circle around for hours until they drop from exhaustion. Light pollution also impacts other wildlife and the well-being of humans. Learn what can be done to mitigate the damage. Lecture by Craig Repasz, chair and co-founder of Lights Out Connecticut and an accomplished birder. Registration requested but not required. Free. Join us at the Center or attend via Zoom. A link will be provided soon.
https://www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-programs-events/
Lights Out Connecticut Lecture The Wonders and Perils of Bird Migration Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.
Explore the awe-inspiring phenomenon of bird migration. Discover the incredible diversity of species that grace our skies during spring migration. Gain insight into the behaviors, routes, and challenges faced by migratory birds and why safe stopover sites are crucial to their survival. Learn the advantages of night migration. Lecture by Craig Repasz, chair and co-founder of Lights Out Connecticut and an accomplished birder. Free. Join us at the Center or attend via Zoom. A link will be provided soon.
https://www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-programs-events/
Connecticut Land Conservation Council Conference. Worshop Dim the Lights: Protecting Birds, Wildlife, and Ourselves
The Connecticut Land Conservation Conference is Connecticut's premier gathering for land conservation enthusiasts, boasting a vibrant mix of nearly 600 attendees. This unique event stands out for its dynamic blend of training, networking, and information-sharing designed for land trusts, conservation groups, and those interested in land conservation across Connecticut.
Join a broad spectrum of attendees representing municipal land use commissions, state agencies, private groups with conservation missions including enthusiasts from garden clubs and various grassroots-level land conservation advocates, students, and more!
https://ctconservation.org/conference/about-conference/
Dim the Lights: Protecting Birds, Wildlife, and Ourselves
Light pollution disrupts ecosystems, disorients migratory birds along the Atlantic Flyway, harms nocturnal wildlife, and impacts human health, while also contributing to climate change through energy waste. This workshop highlights the ecological and health effects of artificial lighting, including modern LEDs, and offers practical strategies—such as Connecticut’s Model Regulations for Outdoor Lighting—to reduce light pollution in homes, businesses, and municipalities.
Easton Garden Club -Light Pollution and Its Impacts on Our Green Spaces
Light Pollution and Its Impacts on Our Green Spaces
We are experiencing an exponential increase in light pollution in Connecticut with impacts on our birds, insects, bats, amphibians, bats, pollinators, plants, and our own health. Another staggering cost is the wasted energy and increase of our carbon footprint. Light Pollution will work against our efforts to create healthy habitat for wildlife and humans in our land trusts, parks, pollinator gardens, and open spaces.
Craig Repasz LOCT CO-founder.
Wonders and Perils of Bird Migration
We will explore the awe-inspiring phenomenon of bird migration and uncover the mysteries behind their epic voyages. From colorful warblers to hummingbirds and thrushes, discover the incredible diversity of species that grace our skies during this magical season.
You will gain insights into the behaviors, routes, and challenges faced by migrating birds as they embark on their remarkable journeys. Learn how to identify common species and understand the crucial role of safe stopover sites in their migration routes. AND find out why so many songbirds migrate at night! With Craig Repasz
Adult Lecture Series
REGISTER Here:
https://www.meigspointnaturecenter.org/calendar/
Bird-Friendly Futures: Preventing Bird Collisions with Better Design
Register in advance for this meeting: Click Here to Register!
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Lights Out Connecticut Lecture Light Pollution and Its Impacts on Our Green Spaces Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.
We are experiencing an exponential increase in light pollution in Connecticut, impacting birds, insects, bats, amphibians, pollinators, and plants as well as human beings. Additional staggering costs are wasted energy and an increase in our carbon footprint. Light pollution works against our efforts to create healthy habitats. Lecture by Craig Repasz, chair and co-founder of Lights Out Connecticut. Free. Join us at the Center or attend via Zoom. A link will be provided soon.
https://www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-programs-events/
Tuesday Winter SeriesLights Out Connecticut Lecture Humans and the Night Sky — Our Lost Heritage
Light pollution robs us of the opportunity to fully experience the night sky. With this loss, we have come to suffer from insomnia, stress, and increased cancer rates. Explore the human connection to the cosmos, focusing on mythologies and human health and wellbeing. Lecture by Craig Repasz, chair and co-founder of Lights Out Connecticut. Free. Join us at the Center or attend via Zoom by clicking on the link below or copying it into your browser.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87190260887?pwd=hhyC5dw3bdfnxdUo1008FHflcqKff9.1
Meeting ID: 871 9026 0887
Passcode: 933999
Farmington Land Trust Book Club
The Farmington Land Trust invites you to attend our first seasonal book club event!
Discussion lead by Lights Out Connecticut’s Craig Repasz
Light Pollution and Bird Migration
We will explore the awe-inspiring phenomenon of bird migration and uncover the mysteries behind their epic voyages. From colorful warblers to hummingbirds and thrushes, discover the incredible diversity of species that grace our skies during this magical season.
Bentfest
BentFest 2024 Join us at Bent of the River Audubon Center, with our conservation partners, for our fun-filled nature festival for all ages! The festivities will include:
Live Music with Cinnamon Sky
Live Bird of Prey Show featuring birds from Sharon Audubon Center
Educational and local exhibits (including Homegrown National Park and a Book Trail activity for children—featuring The Mouse and the Meadow, written and illustrated by Chad Wallace)
Children's Crafts and Face Painting
Bird Banding Demonstration
Bird Watching
Hayrides
Gator Rides
Vendors including Wildbirds Unlimited and Byrd's Books
Libations
Picnicking in the Meadow with food provided
And More!
Light Pollution and Its Effects on Birds, Wildlife, and Human Health: Learn How You Can Help
Millions of birds pass through Connecticut every spring and fall on their way to and from their summer nesting grounds. Because our state is located along the Atlantic Flyway, many birds use our shorelines and green spaces to rest and refuel during their trip.
But light pollution has wreaked havoc on our night sky. Artificial light emitted by our homes, buildings, streetlights, bridges, and other structures can confuse and disorient birds, causing them to land near buildings, crash into windows, and/or circle around for hours until they drop from exhaustion. The result is catastrophic: There are nearly 1 billion bird deaths in North America each year.
Light pollution also impacts other wildlife, human health, and energy waste.
Please come to learn about the problem and what could be done to mitigate the damage. Registration Requested for seating set-up. This program is suitable for all ages and is free. Join our program with Margery Winters of Lights Out Connecticut to learn all your family needs to know.
The Wonders and Perils of Bird Migration.
We will explore the awe-inspiring phenomenon of bird migration and uncover the mysteries behind their epic voyages. From colorful warblers to hummingbirds and thrushes, discover the incredible diversity of species that grace our skies during this magical season.
Light Pollution and Its Effects on Birds, Wildlife, and Human Health: Learn How You Can Help
Join Craig Repasz for a discussion on light pollution and its effects on birds, wildlife, and humans and what you can do to help. Millions of birds pass through Connecticut every spring and fall on their way to and from their summer nesting grounds. Because our state is located along the Atlantic Flyway, many birds use our shorelines and green spaces to rest and refuel during their trip.