Coastal Maine Bird Studies for Teens

# Coastal Maine Bird Studies for Teens Coastal Maine Bird Studies (CMBS) is the teen session of the Hog Island Audubon Camp, which has welcomed nature enthusiasts to its island in Muscongus Bay since 1936. The week is built for young birders who want to sharpen their skills, reach coastal Maine's birding hot spots, learn about coastal ecology and conservation, and join a community of curious peers. ## What You'll Do - Bird coastal Maine by boat and on mainland field trips with leading naturalists and ornithologists - Spend a day on Eastern Egg Rock experiencing the life of a seabird researcher (weather and seas permitting) - Explore tide pools, spruce forest hikes, and nature journaling across the island - Study the diversity of summering coastal birds and their habitat, food sources, ecology, and conservation - Learn from instructors shared with the concurrent adult Joy of Birding and Field Ornithology sessions ## Who Should Apply Teens aged 14 to 17 of all skill levels who have a genuine interest in learning about birds and the emotional maturity for a residential camp. Landing on Eastern Egg Rock requires physical mobility - there is no dock, and participants navigate boulders, slippery rockweed, and narrow uneven trails. Phones are turned in each night to keep the community present and screen-free. ## Outcomes Campers leave with field ornithology skills, seabird research exposure that few high schoolers get, and a peer network of young birders. Tuition is $1,725; Maine residents receive a $150 in-state discount, and Hog Island scholarships are available.