Calling all bird nerds! Come immerse yourself in a week of all things avian: bird biology, evolution, nesting behavior, songs, migration, conservation, and identification. You will learn in the field from some of the most respected bird experts in the country. Throughout the week you will visit both mainland and coastal habitats including offshore islands, spruce woods, lush grasslands, marshes, and sphagnum bogs in search of coastal Maine’s diverse community of nesting birds.

You'll learn in the woods and on the water—experiencing the dawn chorus with experts in bird song recording at your side; helping a bird bander ring colorful warblers; discussing avian coloniality in the midst of thousands of raucous terns. Workshops and evening sessions will provide a solid foundation on the principles of ornithological science. You'll come home with amazing memories, new friends, and a much greater understanding of bird biology and ecology. 

Please note that this session runs concurrently with Coastal Maine Bird Studies for Teens. You will overlap with the teen campers during meals and evening programs, which makes for a wonderful opportunity for sharing the joys of birding across different ages! 

Pricing: $1,725

Maine residents are eligible for a $150 in-state discount for this session! After you register, contact hogisland@audubon.org to confirm your residency and the discount will be applied to your account.

The base registration fee includes meals, housing, instruction, and all field trips. This price is based on a standard shared room (with 2 twin beds) a shared bathroom. A limited number of upgraded accommodations are available for an additional cost. Two upgrade options are a single room for solo travelers or a room with a private bath for two people traveling together. There are no single rooms with private bathrooms available. Please see our lodging page for more information. 

Participants must arrange their own transportation to and from the Audubon dock in Bremen at the start and end of the session. Please see our transportation page for more information.  

There are several scholarship opportunities available to help participants attend Hog Island sessions! Please see our scholarships page for more information about Hog Island Scholarships. You should also check with your local Audubon chapter or bird club for additional opportunities. 

Requirements:  There are no prerequisites for this program! Birders of all skill levels are welcome as are less experienced/enthusiastic partners, friends, or family. 

Director: Scott Weidensaul

Instructors: Sara Morris, Catherine Hamilton, Anthony Hill, Corey Husic

Junior Instructor: TBA

NOTE: Audubon reserves the right to alter itineraries, instructors and particular arrangements, or to substitute similar itineraries or arrangements, at no penalty. If Audubon cancels a session, it will issue full refunds of all deposits or payments to the paid participants.

Testimonials:

“I loved this experience. I learned so much and the people were all friendly and nice.” - 2025 Camper

“[The instructors were] seriously amazing. We felt so welcomed and it was easy to learn from all of them.” - 2025 Camper

“Amazing staff. All friendly, understanding, and down to Earth, especially with a novice birder!” - 2025 Camper

“Instructors and staff were friendly and always willing to discuss all topics covered. This program is one I will treasure for a lifetime.” - 2025 Camper

“[Staff was] incredibly approachable and knowledgeable all around. I appreciated the varieties of personalities and expertise anda ll the enthusiasm and love for birds.” - 2025 Campers

“I have never felt so safe, comfortable or accepted like this before. Hog Island and all who I have met here have changed me for the better. Thank you for the magic, it will be spread around the world.” - 2025 Camper

“Everyone had such a genuine passion for what they do and for sharing it with others. This comes through in every program and every interaction. They are patient, kind, so knowledgeable and seem genuinely overjoyed to watch others find their joy and learn something new.” - 2025 Camper

“This is a unique and magical place. The first day I kind of felt like I’d died and gone to heaven. How wonderful to not be the only person in a group that likes birds and nature. I finally found others like me! I so love that there are camps to go to for adults who enjoy learning. This week has been a gift to me!” - 2025 Camper

“This program really reinvigorated my passion for field work and birding. After a few years of illness, i had been feeling disconnected from birding and they made me feel included and supported.” - 2025 Camper

“I learned way more than I ever expected and had such an amazing experience at camp! I would come back again in a heartbeat and hope that I’ll be able to in the future.”- 2025 Camper