Balancing conservation, education, research, habitat improvement and traditional hunting grounds
Chandler Sawyer, Habitat and Resource Manager
Chandler Sawyer, Habitat and Resource ManagerPhoto: 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.
Learn about the bird conservation research taking place at Pine Island and find nature-focused events happening at this Important Bird Area along the Outer Banks in our periodic eBulletin.