The Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary is owned and operated by the Indiana Audubon Society and is located south of Connersville in Fayette County.

Alice Green Gray gave the initial 264 acre property to the Indiana Audubon Society in 1943 as a living memorial to her daughter Mary, who preceded her in death. Congressman Finley H. Gray willed additional property to the society in 1947, bringing the total to more than 600 acres. Gifts from members have allowed the acquisition of more property so that the Sanctuary now occupies more than 700 acres.

Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary Closed

Temporary Closure in Effect:

Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary is closing temporarily as staff and volunteers address the abundance of dead ash trees that are falling on the trails, making visitation dangerous currently. These dead ashes are the work of emerald ash borers, which are devastating ashes around the country. As soon as it’s safe to re-open we’ll make an announcement. Visitors wishing to see the Evening Grosbeaks at the feeders by the parking lot are welcome. Follow the posted signs.

Evening Grosbeak at MGBS

The Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary feeders are busy! Evening Grosbeaks are visiting the feeders each morning. Although the Sanctuary hiking trails are closed, visitors are welcome to view the birds from the back porch by the parking lot. Signs are posted with information. A few important notes: 1) The Evening Grosbeaks are only visiting the feeders from around 8:15am – 11:15am. 2). They are shy! Do not let them know you are around. 3). Be patient. The grosbeaks feed for about 10 minutes at a time and are seen about every 30-45 minutes until 11am. After 11am, they do not visit the feeders until the next morning. Seating is available on the back porch – we welcome everyone! Contact Amy Wilms ([email protected]) for more information.