Tree Swallow Migration Tour

Each fall, the lower Connecticut River Valley becomes a spectacular staging ground for the migration of hundreds of thousands of Tree Swallows. One of the most remarkable sites is near Goose Island in Old Lyme, where the birds gather in massive flocks to feed and prepare for their journey south. These swallows feast on insects and berries along the river to fatten up for migration. As evening approaches, they form mesmerizing aerial displays called murmurations—synchronized, swirling patterns in the sky—before settling into dense communal roosts in the riverbank reeds. This behavior likely helps protect them from predators and offers one of the most stunning natural spectacles in New England. After the sun sets, we will paddle on the falling tide to our starting location.

The tree swallows gather on the lower Connecticut River from late August to Early October. It is hard to predict in advance which day will have…