The Return of the Oystercatcher: Saving Birds to Save the Planet program with the Seacoast Chapter
2026-07-08 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | NH
The Return of the Oystercatcher: Saving Birds to Save the Planet – Wednesday, July 8
At a time when the news for birds (for the planet!) has rarely seemed more grim, there is reason for hope. Despite the odds today, all around the world people are actually reviving bird populations, providing a roadmap for wider recovery. In his newest book, The Return of the Oystercatcher, best-selling author and researcher Scott Weidensaul shows why creating a world that works for birds will work for everything, including us. He’ll trace this inspiring arc from a tiny island off the Maine coast to the bird-rich Danube Delta on the Ukrainian border, and vulture restoration in the mountains of Bulgaria to across the world’s largest and most intact forest in Canada where Indigenous communities are permanently protecting hundreds of millions of acres of some of the most important migratory bird habitat on Earth. This is a dose of optimism we all need.
Bio: Scott Weidensaul is the author of nearly 30 books on natural history, including the Pulitzer Prize finalist Living on the Wind and his New York Times bestseller A World on the Wing. His latest book, Return of the Oystercatcher coming in April 2026, showcases what’s working for bird conservation around the world. Weidensaul is a contributing editor for Audubon magazine, a columnist for Bird Watcher’s Digest, and writes for a variety of other publications including the Cornell Ornithology Laboratory’s Living Bird publication. He is a Fellow of the American Ornithological Society and an active field researcher, studying Saw-whet Owl migration for 30 years, as well as winter hummingbirds in the East, bird migration in Alaska, and the winter movements of Snowy Owls through Project SNOWstorm, which he co-founded.
Contact: Dan Hubbard, 603 978-0218, danielhubbard@peoplepc.com

Gifts of the Garden: Q&A Sessions
2026-07-09 09:00 - 11:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Visit the Massabesic Center to meet the people who are outstanding in their fields and know all the dirt. No need to herb your enthusiasm! Bring your pressing questions about plants, find your inner peas, discover inspiration for laying down roots at home, or just dig the blooms!
Our volunteer team of University of New Hampshire Extension Master Gardeners enjoy connecting with our visitors and sharing what it takes to create and maintain the luscious, wildlife-friendly gardens at Massabesic. The gardens on site include pollinator and bird-friendly plants, a rain garden space, vegetable and herb gardens, raised beds, wheelchair-accessible beds, and more. As an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program, Massabesic’s Demonstration Gardens provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
This informal drop-in style event during a volunteer workday is the perfect opportunity to learn how you can create similar garden spaces in your own backyard, whether you have an acre or a patio pot. Curious about what plants might work well in full sun or full shade? What plants attract birds and pollinators? How can you grow vegetables for yourself, while being friendly to the local wildlife who might want to share your crops?
This event is also the perfect time to learn about getting involved in volunteer gardening opportunities at the Massabesic Center.
Logistics:
You can arrive any time between 9am and 11am. As you approach the front entrance of the main building, follow the All-Persons Trail to the right, around the back of the building. The trail will lead you into the gardens, where you’ll find UNH Extension Master Gardeners wearing nametags while working. They’ll be expecting you, so please strike up a conversation and let the plants be your guide!
Dress for the weather. The All-Persons Trail pathway is flat packed gravel suitable for wheelchairs and most mobility devices. Some portions of the gardens are grassy or mulched. The parking lot is primarily dirt and some areas may be muddy or puddled after rains. Sunscreen and personal insect repellant are recommended. Don’t forget your camera!
Building hours (and bathroom access) are 11am to 5pm. Visit the gift shop and meet our animal ambassadors after you spend your morning exploring the gardens.
This event is free to attend. Please RSVP before July 8 to help us get a headcount of how many people to expect. Walk-ins are welcome but may miss cancellation communications. Gardeners will not be on site during inclement weather. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Children are welcome! Special accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
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.

Return to the Wild Exhibit
2026-07-09 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-10 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-11 11:00 - 17:00 | McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH, 03301, United States
Return to the Wild Exhibit by Jackie Robidoux: July 8-August 29 at the McLane Center in Concord
Art exhibit viewing access may be restricted during private event rentals. Calling ahead to confirm is recommended.

Visit the McLane Center on July 15 from 4-6pm to celebrate Jackie’s photography exhibit with the artist and NH Audubon staff!
Exhibit Description: These images celebrate the wildlife that has found refuge at the Millstone Wildlife Center. Each animal, cared for with gentle hands, holds a special place in our hearts. Look into their eyes, and you’ll glimpse a connection beyond words. There’s a quiet, bittersweet ache in watching a healed creature return to the wild, relief in its freedom, and hope for its future. These animals remind us of the delicate balance of nature and the importance of coexisting with our wild neighbors, whose homes are often right in our own backyards.
A portion of this exhibit’s proceeds will support the vital conservation efforts of New Hampshire Audubon as well as the Millstone Wildlife Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured and orphaned wildlife back into their natural habitats.

Bio: Jackie Robidoux has been a wildlife photographer for over twenty years. She dedicates her time to capturing the beauty and intricacies of wildlife through a camera lens while actively working to protect that wildlife and its habitat. She is also a licensed New Hampshire wildlife rehabilitator and educator. As a rehabber, she has gained hands-on experience, providing unique insights into animal behavior and ecology. She runs programs in Southern New Hampshire on animal tracking, practicing mindfulness in nature, photography, trail cameras, and wildlife conservation. Over the years, she has participated in studies in New England involving the Canada lynx, eastern coyote, bald eagle, and eastern bluebird. Her passion is educating others on the importance of coexisting with wildlife and connecting people to the natural world.

McLane Center Pollinator Garden Tours
2026-07-09 16:00 - 18:00 | McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH, 03301, United States
Join us for a late afternoon guided tour of the gardens at the McLane Audubon Center. Stroll through the pollinator gardens that surround the Center as we share the story of how these spaces were created, how they continue to evolve, and the vital role they play in supporting bees, butterflies, and other wildlife.
Along the way, you’ll learn how native plants form the foundation of healthy ecosystems and gain practical ideas for creating pollinator-friendly habitat in your own landscape. From early spring blooms to late-season nectar sources, these gardens demonstrate how thoughtful design can provide beauty and ecological value throughout the growing season.
You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the importance of native pollinator gardens, and for the dedicated team of more than 20 volunteers who care for these spaces. We’ll also share information about upcoming workshops and opportunities to get involved, whether you’re interested in learning more or lending a hand in the gardens.
Come be inspired, connect with nature, and see what’s in bloom.
This tour will take place outdoors in the gardens surrounding the buildings at the McLane Center. We will meet in front of the entrance to the main building. Bathrooms and drinking fountains will be available at the beginning and end of the tour.
Dress for the weather. There is a short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot, and a paved concrete pathway that weaves through the gardens. Most of the tour will take place along a walkway that is suitable for most mobility devices including walkers and wheelchairs. Some portions of the tour will cross nearby grassy areas.
This program is intended for adults, but children are very welcome! Special accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Diane De Luca in advance. Bring your camera, sunscreen, bug spray, and questions about creating pollinator habitat at your home.
This event is free to attend. If you feel inspired to support NH Audubon’s work, please consider a gift to our Annual Fund at nhaudubon.org/donate. Your contribution supports priorities like monarch conservation and pollinator habitat creation across New Hampshire.
Please RSVP at least 24 hours in advance to help us get a headcount of how many people to expect. If you miss the RSVP deadline, email Diane De Luca to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications. The tour will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather. Limit 25 attendees. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.

Summer Camp Art Show
2026-07-11 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-18 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-25 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-01 11:00 - 17:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Campers from NH Audubon’s Nature Day Camp program at the Massabesic Center will be creating nature-based works throughout the summer. These mixed media artworks, using paints, crayons, collage, beadwork, and other materials, will reflect each week’s camp theme. Learn along with our campers as they enjoy outdoor adventures and discover more about habitats, birds, watersheds, invertebrates, conservation science, reptiles and amphibians, and mammals.
Artwork will be on display for visitors in the main conference room at the Massabesic Center on Saturdays during the summer camp season. Artwork will not be available for purchase, but will be exhibited for public enjoyment.

Our artists are youth in grades K-9, primarily from the local New Hampshire region. Some artworks may be created with assistance from our seasonal camp staff, many of whom are former campers themselves!
To learn more about the camp program at NH Audubon, visit our Nature Day Camp page.

Return to the Wild Exhibit
2026-07-15 11:00 - 17:00 | McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH, 03301, United States
Return to the Wild Exhibit by Jackie Robidoux: July 8-August 29 at the McLane Center in Concord
Art exhibit viewing access may be restricted during private event rentals. Calling ahead to confirm is recommended.

Visit the McLane Center on today from 4-6pm to celebrate Jackie’s photography exhibit with the artist and NH Audubon staff!
Exhibit Description: These images celebrate the wildlife that has found refuge at the Millstone Wildlife Center. Each animal, cared for with gentle hands, holds a special place in our hearts. Look into their eyes, and you’ll glimpse a connection beyond words. There’s a quiet, bittersweet ache in watching a healed creature return to the wild, relief in its freedom, and hope for its future. These animals remind us of the delicate balance of nature and the importance of coexisting with our wild neighbors, whose homes are often right in our own backyards.
A portion of this exhibit’s proceeds will support the vital conservation efforts of New Hampshire Audubon as well as the Millstone Wildlife Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured and orphaned wildlife back into their natural habitats.

Bio: Jackie Robidoux has been a wildlife photographer for over twenty years. She dedicates her time to capturing the beauty and intricacies of wildlife through a camera lens while actively working to protect that wildlife and its habitat. She is also a licensed New Hampshire wildlife rehabilitator and educator. As a rehabber, she has gained hands-on experience, providing unique insights into animal behavior and ecology. She runs programs in Southern New Hampshire on animal tracking, practicing mindfulness in nature, photography, trail cameras, and wildlife conservation. Over the years, she has participated in studies in New England involving the Canada lynx, eastern coyote, bald eagle, and eastern bluebird. Her passion is educating others on the importance of coexisting with wildlife and connecting people to the natural world.

Return to the Wild Exhibit Reception
2026-07-15 16:00 - 18:00 | McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH, 03301, United States
Return to the Wild Exhibit by Jackie Robidoux: July 8-August 29 at the McLane Center in Concord
Visit the McLane Center today to celebrate Jackie’s photography exhibit with the artist and NH Audubon staff!

Exhibit Description: These images celebrate the wildlife that has found refuge at the Millstone Wildlife Center. Each animal, cared for with gentle hands, holds a special place in our hearts. Look into their eyes, and you’ll glimpse a connection beyond words. There’s a quiet, bittersweet ache in watching a healed creature return to the wild, relief in its freedom, and hope for its future. These animals remind us of the delicate balance of nature and the importance of coexisting with our wild neighbors, whose homes are often right in our own backyards.
A portion of this exhibit’s proceeds will support the vital conservation efforts of New Hampshire Audubon as well as the Millstone Wildlife Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured and orphaned wildlife back into their natural habitats.

Bio: Jackie Robidoux has been a wildlife photographer for over twenty years. She dedicates her time to capturing the beauty and intricacies of wildlife through a camera lens while actively working to protect that wildlife and its habitat. She is also a licensed New Hampshire wildlife rehabilitator and educator. As a rehabber, she has gained hands-on experience, providing unique insights into animal behavior and ecology. She runs programs in Southern New Hampshire on animal tracking, practicing mindfulness in nature, photography, trail cameras, and wildlife conservation. Over the years, she has participated in studies in New England involving the Canada lynx, eastern coyote, bald eagle, and eastern bluebird. Her passion is educating others on the importance of coexisting with wildlife and connecting people to the natural world.

Return to the Wild Exhibit
2026-07-16 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-17 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-18 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-22 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-23 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-24 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-25 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-29 11:00 - 17:00 and 5 more dates | McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH, 03301, United States
Return to the Wild Exhibit by Jackie Robidoux: July 8-August 29 at the McLane Center in Concord
Art exhibit viewing access may be restricted during private event rentals. Calling ahead to confirm is recommended.

Exhibit Description: These images celebrate the wildlife that has found refuge at the Millstone Wildlife Center. Each animal, cared for with gentle hands, holds a special place in our hearts. Look into their eyes, and you’ll glimpse a connection beyond words. There’s a quiet, bittersweet ache in watching a healed creature return to the wild, relief in its freedom, and hope for its future. These animals remind us of the delicate balance of nature and the importance of coexisting with our wild neighbors, whose homes are often right in our own backyards.
A portion of this exhibit’s proceeds will support the vital conservation efforts of New Hampshire Audubon as well as the Millstone Wildlife Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured and orphaned wildlife back into their natural habitats.

Bio: Jackie Robidoux has been a wildlife photographer for over twenty years. She dedicates her time to capturing the beauty and intricacies of wildlife through a camera lens while actively working to protect that wildlife and its habitat. She is also a licensed New Hampshire wildlife rehabilitator and educator. As a rehabber, she has gained hands-on experience, providing unique insights into animal behavior and ecology. She runs programs in Southern New Hampshire on animal tracking, practicing mindfulness in nature, photography, trail cameras, and wildlife conservation. Over the years, she has participated in studies in New England involving the Canada lynx, eastern coyote, bald eagle, and eastern bluebird. Her passion is educating others on the importance of coexisting with wildlife and connecting people to the natural world.

The Feather Detective: Mystery, Mayhem, and the Magnificent Life of Roxie Laybourne
2026-07-16 18:30 - 20:00 | McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH, 03301, United States
Chris Sweeney, an award-winning journalist, details the biography of Roxie Laybourne. Roxie was a pioneering forensic ornithologist at the Smithsonian who used feather analysis to solve crimes and investigate plane crashes, creating the field of forensic ornithology. Join us in learning more about Roxie’s remarkable life, including her work on major incidents like the Eastern Air Lines Flight 375 crash, work that helped her change aviation safety and criminal justice.
Photos of The Feather Detective cover; author Chris Sweeney; Roxie Laybourne (from the Smithsonian Institution Archives).
Cover photo of Roxie Laybourne from the Smithsonian Institution Archives.

Garden Pest Control
2026-07-21 17:30 - 19:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
This workshop will cover garden insect pest control, including what symptoms/signs to look for, insect identification tips, and how to distinguish between pest insects and beneficial insects. We will also cover integrated pest management (IPM) concepts for the home gardener and strategies to control pest insects in your backyard and garden.
Presenter:
Amber Vinchesi-Vahl, UNH Extension State Specialist, Entomology and Integrated Pest Management
Logistics:
This lecture-style presentation will take place indoors, in the main conference room at the Massabesic Center.
Dress for the weather for the short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot to the building, and for optional outdoor exploration of the gardens. We encourage participants to enjoy the gardens after the program concludes. See our own integrated pest management practices in action and how we co-exist with beneficial insects in a pesticide-free environment. The garden trail is a short distance walk over flat-packed gravel. Muddy conditions may be present, especially if you choose to walk into the grassy areas surrounding some garden spaces. An email will be sent out the day before the program with weather expectations. This program will take place rain or shine.
This program is intended for adults. Children are welcome, however in the event of disruptions, we ask that children are accompanied by a guardian to enjoy the Nature Lab or gardens until the presentation concludes. Accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Cost:
$10 for NH Audubon members and UNH Ext. Master Gardeners
$15 for non-members
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 July 19th. 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.
This program is brought to you through an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
PayPal Disclaimer:
NH Audubon’s ticket system utilizes PayPal to process payments. Users are not required to use PayPal to check out; a guest option is provided. PayPal is a trusted way to pay online.
Refund Policy:
All ticket sales are final. All ticket fees support NH Audubon’s mission.

Capital Area Butterfly Survey
2026-07-25 09:00 - 15:00 | McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH, 03301, United States
Butterflies are one of the most beautiful elements of the natural world, and scientists recognize that they can also serve as an important indicator of ecosystem health. NH Audubon is partnering with NH Fish and Game and the North American Butterfly Association (NABA) to collect long-term data on butterflies in the Concord region and beyond. We welcome public participation, and while knowledge of butterflies is a plus, it is not necessary. Join us for these amazing opportunities to learn and participate in butterfly conservation.
Capital Area Butterfly Survey: Join NH Audubon and fellow butterfly enthusiasts at the McLane Center in Concord to help survey butterflies in the capital area! Whether you’re an expert or just curious, there’s a role for everyone (and each team will be paired with an expert). Helping navigate different observation spots, assisting with species identification, snapping photos for post-event verification, or recording data for your team are all valuable contributions to this project. This butterfly count has been held since 2021. (Rain date 7/26 from 9am-3pm.)
Participation in both training and survey events is free of charge. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver. For more information, please contact Lindsay Herlihy at LHerlihy@nhaudubon.org.
The North American Butterfly Association (NABA) organizes the counts and publishes their annual reports. For more information on NABA and the Count Program, please send a self-addressed, stamped business envelope to: NABA, 4 Delaware Road, Morristown, NJ 07960. Or check out their website at www.naba.org.

Butterflies Without Borders: Tracking Monarch Migration Webinar
2026-08-05 19:00 - 20:30 | NH
Monarchs are one of the most iconic insects in North America – and the only North American butterfly that undertakes a long-distance, multi-generational migration. Unfortunately, these formerly abundant butterflies have experienced dramatic population declines since the 1990s. To better understand and protect this incredible species, biologists are now tracking Monarch migration routes with the use of tiny radio transmitters. Join NH Audubon biologist Lindsay Herlihy to explore some of the cutting-edge technologies used to track Monarch movements and to discuss the data NH Audubon biologists are gathering. She’ll also share ways you can help support Monarch conservation and research right here in the Granite State. This program will be recorded and made available online for interested viewers who are unable to make it to the webinar itself. To get the login details and a direct link to the presentation recording, register here.
Photo by Lindsay Herlihy. Monarch takes a moment to rest when it is released with a brand-new Lotek tracking tag.
Thanks to our project and webinar partners:
US Fish & Wildlife Service (Monarch tagging partner)
Owensboro Community & Technical College (Monarch tagging partner)
Lower Shore Land Trust (habitat enhancement partner)
ReWild Long Island (habitat enhancement partner)
Harris Center for Conservation Education (webinar partner)

Gifts of the Garden: Q&A Sessions
2026-08-06 09:00 - 11:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Visit the Massabesic Center to meet the people who are outstanding in their fields and know all the dirt. No need to herb your enthusiasm! Bring your pressing questions about plants, find your inner peas, discover inspiration for laying down roots at home, or just dig the blooms!
Our volunteer team of University of New Hampshire Extension Master Gardeners enjoy connecting with our visitors and sharing what it takes to create and maintain the luscious, wildlife-friendly gardens at Massabesic. The gardens on site include pollinator and bird-friendly plants, a rain garden space, vegetable and herb gardens, raised beds, wheelchair-accessible beds, and more. As an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program, Massabesic’s Demonstration Gardens provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
This informal drop-in style event during a volunteer workday is the perfect opportunity to learn how you can create similar garden spaces in your own backyard, whether you have an acre or a patio pot. Curious about what plants might work well in full sun or full shade? What plants attract birds and pollinators? How can you grow vegetables for yourself, while being friendly to the local wildlife who might want to share your crops?
This event is also the perfect time to learn about getting involved in volunteer gardening opportunities at the Massabesic Center.
Logistics:
You can arrive any time between 9am and 11am. As you approach the front entrance of the main building, follow the All-Persons Trail to the right, around the back of the building. The trail will lead you into the gardens, where you’ll find UNH Extension Master Gardeners wearing nametags while working. They’ll be expecting you, so please strike up a conversation and let the plants be your guide!
Dress for the weather. The All-Persons Trail pathway is flat packed gravel suitable for wheelchairs and most mobility devices. Some portions of the gardens are grassy or mulched. The parking lot is primarily dirt and some areas may be muddy or puddled after rains. Sunscreen and personal insect repellant are recommended. Don’t forget your camera!
Building hours (and bathroom access) are 11am to 5pm. Visit the gift shop and meet our animal ambassadors after you spend your morning exploring the gardens.
This event is free to attend. Please RSVP before August 5 to help us get a headcount of how many people to expect. Walk-ins are welcome but may miss cancellation communications. Gardeners will not be on site during inclement weather. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Children are welcome! Special accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
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.
