Pond Island National Wildlife Refuge

Pond Island National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area comprising several coastal islands along Maine's shoreline. The islands provide nesting habitat for various seabird species and form part of a larger network of protected lands in the region.

The refuge was established in 1973 to protect seabirds and their habitats along the coast. Since then, targeted efforts have worked to support endangered species and rebuild breeding populations that had declined.

The islands draw researchers who spend time documenting seabird breeding colonies and sharing their findings with the wider scientific community. This work has helped shape how similar refuges around the world approach conservation efforts.

Most of the islands can be viewed from a distance or accessed via authorized boat tours. Visiting requires planning since direct access is limited and weather conditions often affect when travel is possible.

The site uses an unusual method of playing seabird colony recordings through speakers to attract birds back to the islands. This approach, combined with strategically placed decoys, has proved effective in bringing species back to areas they had abandoned.

Location: Maine

Inception: 1973

Part of: Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/pond_island

GPS coordinates: 43.73897,-69.77088

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:41