Science

Research and applied science are a major focus at Pine island

Photo: Photo by Robert Fearn.

Research
As the site of North Carolina’s first Audubon Center, the Donal C. O’Brien, Jr. Sanctuary in Corolla is becoming a central location for environmental research, and developing new conservation and management techniques in North Carolina.

Positioned between the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean, the Sanctuary is already experiencing early warning signs of serious environmental threats. Issues that will soon affect birds as well as people, including severe storms, rising sea level, change in water quality and dwindling habitats. These topics will be the focus of some of the research initiatives based at the Sanctuary.

Browse our website to learn more about how the Audubon Sanctuary is creating a research hub supporting future conservation efforts across our state and the entire Flyway.

Creating a Living Research Lab

Creating a Living Research Lab

After more than 100 years in private ownership, the Sanctuary in Corolla will be opened to the community so that everyone can enjoy and explore this singular reminder of the historic Outer Banks.

Read more

Botany Blitz at the Sanctuary

Botany Blitz at the Sanctuary

Pine Island is conducting a complete botanical inventory of the Sanctuary

Read more

Citizen Science

Citizen Science

You don't have to be a researcher to support bird conservation across our state. You just have to like birds! Find out how you can become a citizen scientist where you live. 

Read more

A Secluded Outer Banks Experience
News

A Secluded Outer Banks Experience

The Sanctuary in Corolla recently hosted students from the University of North Carolina’s Coastal Studies Institute Outer Banks Field Site Program.

Read more

A Win-Win for Research and Conservation
Conservation

A Win-Win for Research and Conservation

Mark Stanback, PhD, Davidson College Professor of Biology chose the Sanctuary for his latest monitoring project. Learn how he's compiling data from Tree Swallow nest boxes.

Read more

Research Application for Donal C. O'Brien, Jr. Sanctuary in Corolla
Conservation

Research Application for Donal C. O'Brien, Jr. Sanctuary in Corolla

Learn more about how to apply to conduct research at the Donal C. O'Brien, Jr. Sanctuary in Corolla.

Read more

How you can help, right now