Birds, Science & Conservation > Coastal Stewardship Program

Coastal Stewardship Program

Click here for the Coastal Stewardship Program newsletter

The Houston Zoo recently honored Audubon Texas warden Chester Smith for his outstanding work on Sundown Island! Click here for the full story

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In 1923, Audubon established a system of island sanctuaries along the Texas Coast. In all, more than 13,000 acres are home to twenty-plus species of colonial waterbirds, several of which are considered endangered or threatened. The majority of waterbirds that nest along the Coast nest on an Audubon owned or leased island. Our coastal sanctuaries host the largest Reddish Egret and Roseate Spoonbill colonies in the world.

In partnership with the Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program and Houston Audubon Society, Audubon wardens manage these islands, patrolling and censusing bird populations by boat during nesting season, controlling fire ants, planting shrubs and trees, and monitoring predator activity and erosion. In addition to managing the islands, wardens communicate with local media, organize volunteers, educate citizens, and work with recreational and commercial anglers. For decades this model of community-based stewardship has sustained one of the most effective bird conservation programs in the country. Audubon‘s coastal management program has been recognized through the Governors’ Blue Ribbon Committee on Environmental Excellence.