Learn about and get involved in a participatory science project to monitor field-nesting birds at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center!
This workshop will teach you how to collect conservation data as a NestWatch Monitor. You’ll learn detailed identification skills for bird species and nests most often encountered in the nesting boxes at Massabesic, including Eastern Bluebirds, Tree Swallows, Black-capped Chickadees, and House Wrens. We’ll review predator and disease control methods, invasive species mitigation, and information about nest protections afforded by migratory bird laws. We’ll touch on terminology and general life history information, and we’ll celebrate thee sanctuary’s nesting success with a summary review of this 25-year long project. NH Audubon Massabesic Center is home to almost 80 monitored nest boxes; can you guess how many Tree Swallow fledglings have taken flight at Massabesic over the last twenty years?
We will begin in the classroom at 11:30am for a 2-hour presentation, with a short break for snacks (bring your own snacks or lunch and water). After the break, we’ll head outside to learn the trails and nest box locations, clean out residual nest materials from last year, and practice field identification of early season birds.
If you’d like to join our volunteer team after learning what it takes, we’ll collect your information and start you down the path to becoming a NestWatch Monitor with NH Audubon. Attendees are not required to become monitors; you can learn the process and take your new skills with you anywhere!
This adult-focused presentation is required for all new NestWatch monitor volunteers at the Massabesic Center. Minors who wish to become volunteers must be accompanied by trained adults to ensure robust data collection. Established volunteer monitors are welcome to enjoy a refresher but are not required to repeat the training course.
NestWatch Monitors are expected to contribute one to two hours each week from April to August to record data in their designated zones.
Presenters:
Logan Young, NH Audubon Massabesic Center NestWatch Chapter Coordinator
Bob Krewson, NH Audubon Bluebird Monitor Volunteer Leader
Logan and Bob were awarded the 2024 John Thalheimer Volunteer Award for their dedication to this project. The knowledge they share during this workshop builds from over a decade of research gathered under their leadership.
Cost: This program is free to attend. If you feel inspired to support New Hampshire Audubon’s work, please consider a gift to our Annual Fund at nhaudubon.org/donate. Your contribution supports priorities like environmental education for people of all ages across NH, stewardship of nearly 10,000 acres of conserved habitat, science-based environmental policy and advocacy, and statewide conservation research and wildlife monitoring.
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.
Registration Required by April 9, 2026. If you miss the registration deadline, please email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications. Limit 50 attendees.
Dress for the weather and be prepared to walk up to one mile over mostly flat, but uneven gravel and grassy terrain. Long sleeves, pants, bug spray and sunscreen are strongly recommended. The outdoor portion of this course will be postponed in the event of severe weather. Participants who do not wish to become volunteer monitors are not required to attend the outdoor portion of this class. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Want to build a bird house to take home with you after the program? Register here for another event to continue the fun!
Cover image by Chris Kenney.