Explore Cove
One small sanctuary, closely known
From salt marsh to shoreline to meadow, Cove Island rewards a slow walk and repeat visits.
The Sanctuary
A small footprint, held with care
Cove Island Wildlife Sanctuary is a 4-acre stretch within Cove Island Park, designated an Important Bird Area in 2001. Since 2006, volunteers have recorded 317 bird species and 67 butterfly species here — a remarkable diversity for a stopover this small.
Habitats
A few habitats, closely connected
Salt Marsh & Mud Flats
Tidal habitat that shelters nesting birds and shellfish.
Sand Dune
The last undeveloped dune in Stamford — a protected habitat.
Meadow
Pollinator plantings tended by hand, season after season.
Oak & Holly Groves
Planted groves that shelter migrating songbirds.
Map & Visiting
Plan a visit
- Location
- 1128 Cove Road, Stamford, CT 06902
- Hours
- Hours to be confirmed with Cove.
- Access
- Dogs, bikes, and picnics are not permitted within the sanctuary’s sensitive habitat areas.
History & Stewardship
Cared for across generations
In honor of State Representative Moira Lyons, the State of Connecticut gave the City of Stamford a grant to create Cove Island Wildlife Sanctuary in 2005. Cove Island Park and Holly Pond were named an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International in 2001. Today the sanctuary is stewarded by a volunteer committee of neighbors, local birders, naturalists, and city staff.
