In this exciting and unique session, campers will have the opportunity to bird their way across the state of Maine. This intensive 5-night program will spend half the week on Hog Island and the other half at Maine 91°µÍø’s Borestone Mountain Sanctuary. Throughout the week we will explore the rocky coastline, marsh, grasslands, mature northern spruce-fir forest, and offshore islands in search of nesting bird species. Teens will develop their bird identification skills and learn more about the ecosystems that support birds and global conservation projects. Hog Island will serve as our base for coastal adventures like a boat trip to Eastern Egg Rock and tide-pooling, and at Borestone we will explore the crystalline lakes surrounding the lodge and summit Borestone mountain.
This rugged experience is perfect for teens who are ready to unplug and connect to nature. Phone reception on Hog Island and Borestone is limited and there will be no internet available at either camp. To limit screen time and promote a community where we are present with ourselves and others, teens will turn in their cell phones to instructors each night before bed.
Please be aware that Mountains to Sea is not your average bird camp! Our focus is not about getting the highest number of species on our list, but on appreciating birds, observing the natural world around us, learning about bird conservation, and building a supportive community where we can all grow as birders and as individuals.
Pricing: $1,725
Maine residents are eligible for a $150 in-state discount for this session! After you register, contact hogisland@audubon.org to confirm your residency and the discount will be applied to your account.
The base registration fee includes meals, housing, instruction, and all field trips. Campers will be assigned a shared room with a roommate of the same gender identity.
Transportation: For this session, all campers will be picked up and dropped off at the Portland International Jetport by 91°µÍø staff. From the airport, we will go directly to Borestone Mountain for the first two nights of the session. Please be aware that 14 years olds are required to be unaccompanied minors by most airlines. If your child is flying to camp, please book a flight that arrives between 11am-1pm on Sunday, June 28 and departs no earlier than 11am on Friday July 3. If you are driving your child to camp, you can drop them off at the baggage claim of Portland airport at 11am on Sunday, June 28 and pick them up at 10am on Friday, July 3.
There are several scholarship opportunities available to help participants attend Hog Island sessions! Please see the scholarships page for more information about Hog Island Scholarships. You should also check with your local 91°µÍø chapter or bird club for additional opportunities.
This program requires emotional maturity and physical stamina. Campers must be able to hike 3 miles and be able to travel independently. Campers must also be okay with the limited screen time and contact when we have poor cell reception throughout the trip.
Instructors: Doug Hitchcox, Lindsay Strout
NOTE: 91°µÍø reserves the right to alter itineraries, instructors and particular arrangements, or to substitute similar itineraries or arrangements, at no penalty. If 91°µÍø cancels a session, it will issue full refunds of all deposits or payments to the paid participants.
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