Sanctuary Management

Balancing conservation, education, research, habitat improvement and traditional hunting grounds

Chandler Sawyer, Habitat and Resource Manager

Photo: Mark Buckler

At the Pine Island Sanctuary, Audubon balances conservation, education, research, habitat improvement and recreation.

Currituck Sound is one of the oldest managed waterfowl hunting grounds in America. Some of the world’s earliest and most recognized conservationists were hunters – outdoorsmen and women who witnessed changes in their natural surroundings and sought to preserve their traditions. Today, conservationists and hunters still share the goal of protecting birds and the landscapes they depend on in Currituck Sound.

Waterfowl hunting in Currituck Sound has a long history, and Audubon upholds that tradition by managing limited and sustainable hunting at the Pine Island Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to 29 duck blinds which are available strictly to privately invited hunters. Hunting blinds are licensed and maintained each year. By managing the blinds that were constructed on the Pine Island Sanctuary prior to Audubon’s ownership of the property, Audubon can manage the hunting pressure at sanctuary to create a minimally disturbed habitat where waterfowl thrive.

Controlled Burns Bring Life to the Marshes
Conservation

Controlled Burns

Audubon NC staff is conducting sustainable controlled burns at the Audubon Sanctuary in Corolla. 

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Pristine Sanctuary for Birds
Plan Your Visit

Pristine Sanctuary for Birds

With its extensive marshes, waterways and diversity of upland and maritime forest, the 2,600 acres of preserved land contribute to major environmental and wildlife conservation efforts for the health of our birds, wildlife and local community. 

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Biodiversity Abounds
Natural History

Biodiversity Abounds

Audubon’s Sanctuary in Corolla is host to hundreds of individual species and more are being identified and recorded regularly.

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How you can help, right now