2026 Bird of the Year: Pileated Woodpecker
We’re holding special programs to help you get to know this large and beautiful bird.
The Bird of the Year program is a celebration of birds, the places they live, and the community of people who care about them.
Our members voted, and for the inaugural Bird of the Year they chose the beautiful and unmistakable Pileated Woodpecker. The choice represents the importance of conservation and education—and of simply enjoying Connecticut’s birds.
Throughout the year, Connecticut Audubon’s centers and sanctuaries will spotlight on the Pileated Woodpecker with monthly programs and experiences to show how these birds live and behave, and why they are so important to our local history and landscape.
Pileated Woodpeckers are year-round residents, so celebrating them is also a perfect way to get to know the beautiful local trails and forests where they can be found.
There are many ways to get involved, and we are making sure there is something for everyone.
