Thorncrag bird sanctuary Life in the Lewiston/Auburn area happens at a different pace then it does in cities like Boston. While life here may not be as hectic as Boston, we all have a need to “recharge our batteries” from time to time. One of the best ways to do this is to enjoy the outdoors.
For some people, a brisk hike down a wooded trail is what they need to make them feel better. For others, a slower pace might be in order. Perhaps a slow walk down the trail, binoculars in hand, waiting to catch a glimpse of a Cedar Waxwing or an Evening Grosbeak is more your style. Better still, maybe an old-fashioned picnic is in order. Whatever it takes, the people of Lewiston/Auburn are truly lucky to have an “oasis of green” in the midst of Lewiston. Situated on 310 acres of land off Montello Street, the Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary has been providing the people of this area an opportunity to observe and enjoy nature in its pristine condition for over 80 years. Administered by the Stanton Bird Club, Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary encompasses six different wildlife habitats that host a variety of animal and plant life. Founded in 1919 and named for Bates College professor Dr. Jonathan Stanton, the Stanton Bird Club serves as stewards to this valued local resource.
The area on which the sanctuary now sits was home to a variety of homes and industries. It was first home to the Thorne Family in the 1800’s. The foundation for the Thorne Family home still exists and can be accessed via the trail network within the sanctuary. In 1908, the area became home to a spring water bottling company, which remained in continuous operation until the building burned down in 1975. The business was never rebuilt and the spring along with the surrounding land was purchased by the Stanton Bird Club in 1991. Admission to the sanctuary is free, although donations are welcome. Visitors to the sanctuary can observe a variety of different plants, trees, and wildlife. Trees such as the Black Locust, Hemlock, and White Pine are found through out the sanctuary. Visitors can also observe a diverse assortment of wildflowers growing throughout the sanctuary. A winding network of color-coded trails guides the visitor through the various habitats found within the sanctuary grounds. Each trail brings the visitor a unique view of the sanctuary. The sanctuary is not only a place to observe nature; it is also a laboratory of sorts hosting biologists and botanical societies. The Stanton Bird Club encourages responsible use of the sanctuary. Activities such as nature hikes, bird watching, picnicking, and nature photography are encouraged and welcomed. For people whose tastes run to the winter sports, visitors can snow shoe, cross-country ski, or skate within the sanctuary’s boundaries. In order to protect the sanctuary, no bicycles or motorized vehicles are allowed on the grounds of the sanctuary and all visitors are asked to pack out any waste they create. The Thorncrag Sanctuary is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. It is the perfect place to take a break and enjoy nature in its unspoiled glory. |
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