Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary

For us, the residents of Connecticut, who appreciate the beauty of our natural world and the importance of conservation, the Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary in Fairfield is a truly invaluable resource. Managed by the esteemed Connecticut Audubon Society, this 155-acre sanctuary offers a unique blend of accessible trails, diverse habitats, and engaging educational opportunities, making it far more than just a place to walk. It's a vibrant living classroom, a peaceful retreat, and a critical haven for countless bird species and other wildlife right here in Fairfield County. This article is crafted for you, our fellow Connecticut users, to explore the wonders of the Larsen Sanctuary and understand why it’s a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.

The Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary is a testament to the dedication of the Connecticut Audubon Society, an independent organization that has been conserving Connecticut’s environment since 1898. Adjoining the Connecticut Audubon Society’s Center at Fairfield, the sanctuary acts as an extensive outdoor classroom and a sanctuary for wildlife. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll with a newborn in tow, a challenging birdwatching session, or a family outing filled with discovery, the Larsen Sanctuary promises an enriching experience. Let’s delve into what makes this Fairfield gem so special.

The Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary is conveniently located at 2325 Burr St, Fairfield, CT 06824, USA. This address is also home to the Connecticut Audubon Society's Center at Fairfield, which serves as the primary entrance and hub for visitors. Situated in the historic Greenfield Hill section of Fairfield, the sanctuary is easily accessible by car from various parts of Fairfield County and beyond.

One of the standout features regarding accessibility, as highlighted by local reviews, is the presence of stroller and wheelchair-friendly trails. The mile-long Chiboucas Special Use Trail, designed with an easy grade and paved with finely crushed rock, is specifically engineered to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers. This commitment to accessibility ensures that individuals of all mobility levels can enjoy the beauty of the sanctuary. Ample parking is available at the Center at Fairfield. While the sanctuary trails are open daily year-round from dawn to dusk, the Center building itself has specific hours (typically Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., closed Sunday). This dual access provides flexibility for visitors to explore the outdoors even when the indoor facilities are closed. The convenient location and thoughtful design for diverse users make the Larsen Sanctuary a highly accessible and welcoming destination for all Connecticut residents.

The Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary, along with the adjoining Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield, offers a rich array of services, primarily focused on environmental education, conservation, and public engagement with nature:

• Extensive Trail System: The sanctuary boasts over seven miles of trails and boardwalks, traversing diverse habitats including mixed hardwood forest, shrub habitats, ponds, wetlands, streams, and meadows. These trails cater to various walking preferences, from leisurely strolls to more immersive hikes.
• Wheelchair and Stroller Accessible Trails: A significant offering is the dedicated Chiboucas Special Use Trail, which is designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, allowing individuals with mobility challenges to enjoy the natural environment.
• Birds of Prey Compound: Located behind the Center building, this outdoor compound provides close-up views of non-releasable rescued birds of prey, such as hawks, owls, and falcons, offering a unique educational experience. (Note: Check current status as exhibits may vary).
• Nature Center Facilities: The Center at Fairfield building provides indoor amenities including accessible classrooms, live educational animals, exhibits, a nature library, and a nature store.
• Environmental Education Programs: The Connecticut Audubon Society offers a wide range of educational programs and activities for children, families, and adults, including school programs, summer camps, scout programs, and general public workshops focusing on birds, wildlife, and conservation.
• Wildlife Observation and Birdwatching: The sanctuary is a premier destination for birdwatchers, with nearly 200 species observed, including both common and rare birds, making it a critical birding spot in Connecticut.
• Pollinator Garden and Fragrance Loop Trail: Visitors can explore a pollinator garden behind the Center building and the three-mile Fragrance Loop trail, which features fragrant native plants attracting birds, bees, and butterflies.
• Picnic Areas: While not explicitly detailed, the natural setting and the presence of trails make it conducive for picnicking in designated or suitable areas.

The Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary is distinguished by several key features and highlights that make it a captivating and vital resource for Connecticut residents:

• Diverse Ecosystems in One Place: Spanning 155 acres, the sanctuary encapsulates a remarkable variety of habitats including rolling woodlands, meadows, streams, marshes, and ponds. This ecological diversity supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making every visit an opportunity to observe different aspects of nature.
• Premier Birding Destination: The sanctuary is renowned as a landmark location for birding in Connecticut, with almost 200 species observed. It's particularly excellent for spring migrants, summer breeders, and various warbler species, especially around the nature center and Farm Pond.
• Chiboucas Special Use Trail: This mile-long, crushed-rock trail is a significant highlight, offering accessible paths for strollers and wheelchairs. It provides a unique opportunity for individuals with mobility limitations to immerse themselves in nature, including passing through a meadow, along a marsh, and near conifer trees.
• Live Birds of Prey Compound: The outdoor compound behind the Nature Center provides a rare chance to see various hawks, owls, and other raptors up close, offering an educational and awe-inspiring experience for visitors of all ages.
• Fragrance Loop Trail: This three-mile trail is designed to engage multiple senses, winding through moist, shady forest and featuring fragrant native plants and fruit-bearing shrubs that attract pollinators and birds.
• Historical Significance: The Connecticut Audubon Society, headquartered in Fairfield, was founded in 1898, making it one of the oldest independent Audubon organizations. The Larsen Sanctuary is a key part of their long-standing conservation efforts.
• New England Cottontail Habitat: The sanctuary is one of the few Connecticut Audubon preserves known to harbor populations of the rare New England cottontail rabbit, highlighting its importance for specific, threatened species.

As a non-profit wildlife sanctuary and nature center, the Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary does not offer commercial "promotions" in the retail sense. Its primary "offer" is the free and accessible enjoyment of its natural environment and educational resources. However, the Connecticut Audubon Society provides numerous valuable programs and opportunities that can be considered "special offers" for Connecticut residents:

• Year-Round Educational Programs: The Center at Fairfield offers a robust schedule of programs and events for adults, youth, and families. These include guided nature walks, bird walks, workshops, and school programs, which provide deeper learning and engagement with nature.
• Summer Camps: The Center hosts popular summer day camps that offer immersive outdoor experiences and environmental education for children, making it an excellent opportunity for summer learning and fun.
• Naturalist Training Program: For those looking for a more in-depth commitment, the Center offers Naturalist Training Programs, providing comprehensive education on local ecology and conservation.
• Virtual Tour and App: A unique "special offer" is the virtual tour of the sanctuary, created by a local Girl Scout, which can be viewed online or accessed via the free CT Audubon app. This 21-stop guided walk highlights diverse wildlife and natural features, enhancing the in-person visit or allowing for virtual exploration from home.
• Volunteer Opportunities: The Connecticut Audubon Society welcomes volunteers for various roles, including helping with habitat maintenance, educational programs, and citizen science initiatives, offering a fulfilling way to contribute to local conservation.
• Nature Store: While purchases support the Audubon Society's mission, the Nature Store offers unique, nature-themed gifts, books, and bird-feeding supplies, providing a convenient place for visitors to find related items.
• Membership Benefits: Becoming a member of the Connecticut Audubon Society provides various benefits, including discounted rates on programs, special event invitations, and direct support for the conservation work at the Larsen Sanctuary and other preserves.

To stay informed about the latest program schedules, events, and opportunities, Connecticut residents are highly encouraged to visit the official Connecticut Audubon Society website (ctaudubon.org) and specifically the Fairfield Nature Center page, or follow their social media channels.

For inquiries or additional information about the Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary and the Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield, here is the primary contact information:

• Address: 2325 Burr St, Fairfield, CT 06824, USA
• Phone: (203) 259-0416
• Mobile Phone: +1 203-259-0416 (This is the main office line for the Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield).

It is always recommended to check the official Connecticut Audubon Society website (ctaudubon.org) for the most current information regarding visitor hours (for both the sanctuary trails and the Nature Center building), program schedules, specific details about the Birds of Prey Compound (as exhibits can change), and any potential trail updates or closures. You can also find information on how to support their conservation efforts through donations or membership. The phone number provided connects you directly to the helpful staff at the Fairfield Nature Center, who can assist with specific questions about your visit or their educational offerings.

For residents of Connecticut, the Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary in Fairfield is an outstanding and highly suitable local attraction that offers something truly special for everyone. Its primary appeal lies in its remarkable accessibility, notably the stroller and wheelchair-friendly Chiboucas Special Use Trail. This inclusivity ensures that families with young children, individuals with mobility challenges, and seniors can all comfortably enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature, fostering a love for the outdoors across all generations in our community.

Beyond accessibility, the sanctuary provides an immersive and enriching experience. With 155 acres of diverse habitats and seven miles of trails, it's a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering countless opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural environment. The presence of the Connecticut Audubon Society's Center at Fairfield, with its educational exhibits, live birds of prey compound, and a robust calendar of programs and camps, transforms a simple walk into a comprehensive learning adventure. For locals, having such a well-maintained, ecologically significant, and educationally rich resource "just down the road" – and free to enjoy – makes the Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary an indispensable part of Fairfield's and indeed, Connecticut's, appeal. It's a place to unwind, learn, connect with nature, and create cherished memories right here in our own state.

Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary

2325 Burr St, Fairfield, CT 06824, USA