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Friends of Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge
Friends of Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge
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    • Board of Directors and Staff
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long tailed ducks maine

Take a Deep-Dive With Long-Tailed Ducks

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportFebruary 14, 2023

Long-tailed ducks are a remarkable species of Arctic nesting sea duck commonly seen along Maine’s coast in the winter. Unfortunately, the global population of long-tailed ducks is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN.

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purple sandpipers

Purple Sandpiper

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportJanuary 15, 2023

During the summer breeding season, purple sandpipers can be found in the tundra of northern Canada. After the breeding season ends, purple sandpipers migrate south to coastal areas

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The Christmas Bird Count: A Heart-Warming Holiday Tradition

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportDecember 19, 2022

Christmas has many heart-warming traditions, including one that has saved the lives of countless birds in the Western Hemisphere.

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arctic snowbirds in maine

Arctic Snowbirds in Maine

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportNovember 15, 2022

Mainers know how rough our winters can be but for birds stuck in the Arctic freeze, our region is a delight.

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leach's storm petrel

The Leach’s Storm Petrel: Interesting Facts About a Very Special Bird

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportOctober 13, 2022

Although it’s rarely seen from land, you might be lucky and spot the Leach’s Storm Petrel during an aquatic expedition in the Gulf of Maine.

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bird flu in maine

Bird Flu in Maine

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportSeptember 14, 2022

Bird Flu is back in Maine and the fall and upcoming winter make it essential to follow proper biosecurity measures, not only to protect food sources but to protect other wildlife in Maine.

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arctic tern maine seabirds

All About the Arctic Tern: The Animal Kingdom’s Marathon Migrator

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportAugust 19, 2022

These little birds only weigh between 3-5 ounces as adults, but with a wingspan over twice the length of their bodies, Arctic terns are truly remarkable flyers.

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common murre seabird on maine coast

Common Murre Facts: One of the Fascinating Seabirds of Maine

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportJuly 17, 2022

Common Murres disappeared from Maine entirely in the 1880s after years of being hunted for their meat and eggs. Today, their population continues to increase

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three razorbills on a rock ledge

5 Razorbill Facts From Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportJune 18, 2022

Easily identified by their black and white plumage and their distinctive “razor-like” bill, Razorbills are excellent swimmers and divers and can often be seen feeding in the Gulf of Maine’s coastal waters.

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Climate Change in Maine: The Effects of a Warming Planet

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportMay 18, 2022

While our beautiful state has always been known for its abundant wildlife, vast forests, and stunning coastal views, the reality is that our coastline is becoming more vulnerable to the effects of climate change every day.

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Why are Great White Shark Sightings in Maine on the Rise?

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportApril 15, 2022

While these massive sharks were once a rare occurrence along Maine’s beaches, they are now being seen more often, with 6 reported sightings in 2020 alone.

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Guided talk in MCI Art Gallery by artist with scientific illustrations of fish on wall

5 Family-Friendly Activities on the Maine Coast

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportMarch 19, 2022

From visiting the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine to spending the day at Funtown Splashtown USA Waterpark, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Maine.

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painting at the mci visitor center in rockland maine

Hidden Gems: Natural/Cultural History Museums in Maine

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportFebruary 17, 2022

Maine is a natural wonderland from the rocky coastline to the vast forests. The state is also home to many fascinating cultural institutions, including natural history and cultural history museums. While you’re planning your next trip to Maine, be sure to include at least one natural or cultural history museum visit in your itinerary. If…

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sunsetting on ocean with seabirds flying in distance

How to Get Involved With Coastal Conservation

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportJanuary 27, 2022

Maine’s coastal areas are as beautiful as they are essential to the health of the local ecosystem. They’re home to some of the world’s most fascinating marine life, including several species of fish and our beloved seabirds. These coastal areas are also popular tourist destinations, supporting the local economy. Unfortunately, our coastal ecosystems are under…

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puffin stands on rockweed covered rock at the waterline

5 Interesting Puffin Facts for Bird Lovers

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportDecember 17, 2021

Puffins are one of the most beloved birds among children and adults alike. From their small size to their almost clownlike appearance, it’s no wonder these birds are a must-see for bird lovers and tourists. While their unique appearance is their signature trait, there is much more to puffins than meets the eye. Curious to…

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Two Arctic Terns on rock, one has bird bands on leg

Best Places to See Wildlife on the Maine Coast

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportNovember 14, 2021

Maine’s coast is a haven for wildlife. With an abundance of food and shelter, the coast provides the perfect home for hundreds of species to live and thrive. With so many great parks, tours, refuges, and preserves to consider, we’ve narrowed it down to 3 of the best places to see wildlife on the Maine…

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Guillemot with Black belly rosefish in its beak

Maine Coast Bird Watching: Popular Birds and Where To Find Them

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportOctober 15, 2021

Maine is a beautiful state with a great variety of landscapes to explore. One of the most popular things to do in Maine, other than hiking and fishing, is bird watching. Bird-lovers from around the world flock to the Pine Tree State each year for its diverse bird population. Maine is home to over 400…

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close up of adult puffins in maine

The Best Places To See Puffins In Maine

UncategorizedBy SEO LA SupportSeptember 14, 2021

Maine is known for its lighthouses and lobsters rolls, but you haven’t truly experienced the best of this beautiful state until you’ve seen the puffins. Penguin-like in their appearance, these seabirds call the Maine ocean islands home. If you’re a bird lover or simply can’t wait to see and learn more about these beloved birds,…

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Contact Information
  • Address:
    9 Water St.
    P.O. Box 1231
    Rockland, ME 04841
  • Phone:
    (207) 594-0600 x 5114
  • Email:
    info@mainecoastislands.org

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Friends of Maine Coastal Islands

A non-profit, community-based organization founded in 2003 by local individuals dedicated to supporting the Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge in its efforts to conserve, protect and enhance the rich diversity of coastal habitats, seabirds and other wildlife.

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