We are really excited to offer this trip to Stratton Island to see the nesting terns! This 24-acre island is located in Saco Bay, 3 miles east of Old Orchard Beach in York County. In the event that weather or sea conditions prevent the trip, we will plan to host the trip the following day, Sunday July 10th.
Stratton Island is notable for having the highest diversity of nesting waterbirds of any Maine island. The island's beaches provide nesting habitat for Common, Roseate, Arctic and Least Terns. These will be our target birds for this outing. The island also provides nesting habitat for several species that are at the northern limit of their range (e.g. Glossy Ibis, Little Blue Heron, Great Egret, and American Oystercatcher). Likewise, several northern species reach the southern limit of their ranges (e.g. Black Guillemot and Common Eider). The interior pond and wetland provide breeding habitat for several waterfowl species (e.g. Northern Shoveler, and Blue-winged Teal).
LOGISTICS: To get onto the island and back to the mainland, participants will transfer from a larger boat to a landing skiff or dingy. Life jackets will be provided and must be worn at all times on the boats. Please be aware that you might be up to your knees in water getting on shore. Old sneakers or sandals are recommended for the slippery rocks below. Dress in layers as it is often much cooler on the water and island compared to the mainland. You may also want to bring a water proof layer as you might encounter some ocean spray to and from the island by boat. Bring the following: filled water bottle, snacks/bagged lunch, hat, binoculars, camera (optional), notebook & field guide (optional), and a backpack in which you'll keep all your stuff. If you do not have binoculars, MYBC will provide you with a pair. Bug spray and proper tick prevention procedures should be followed. While we will be outside, please bring as face covering for instances where we are may need to be in close contact.
MEET UP and PICK UP: We will meet at the Lobsterman’s Co-op at Pine Point in Scarborough (96 King St, Scarborough, ME 04074). The first group will depart from the dock at 7:30AM. The second group will depart at 8AM.
PICK UP will be at the same location at 11:00 am for the first group and 11:30AM for the second group. Departure and arrival times may be delayed by rough seas.
2022 Outing Schedule
July 9th - Stratton Island
July 22nd - Sunset Puffin Cruise (note this is a Friday evening)
Aug - Date/Location TBD
Sept 10th - TBD
Oct 8th -TBD
Nov 5th -TBD
Dec 31st - Annual Christmas Bird Count in OOB