Stanwood Wildlife Sanctuary

The two hundred acre Sanctuary is available year round free of charge for walking skiing snowshoeing and photography on nature trails set amidst and preserving various pristine habitats for birds wildlife and the enjoyment of people easily accessible within the heart of Ellsworth. Many of these historic trails Cordelia J. Stanwood created in the early 20th century forming the first professional female ornithologist photographers outdoor "laboratory," where she researched photographed and popularized her findings in magazines for 50 years. Maintaining over 4 miles of trails markers historic and educational signage building bridges while annually removing windfall and pruning new growth is a constant labor of love to preserve a healthy forest in multiple stages of growth supporting Maines wildlife for visitors and children. Estimate 3,000 walkers.

Stated within the Certificate of Organization the purpose of the Stanwood Wildlife Sanctuary is to preserve and promote Cordelia J. Stanwoods life and legacy shared through opening the doors of her 19th century Homestead to the public. Daily tours are available free to visitors and scheduled groups from May to October. As the Homestead is free to the public we estimate attendance at 2,000. The Nature Center offers a variety of educational nature displays to school groups service and community organizations Audubon and conservation organizations as well as daily visitors from May to November. Rainy days cause outdoor activities to move into the Nature Center. Estimate 5,000 visitors