The Mississippi Coast Audubon Society (MCAS) is a chapter of the National Audubon Society, covering Mississippi’s six coastal counties – Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, George, Stone, and Pearl River. Explore our website to learn about Mississippi birds and habitats, see our field trip schedule, and find out what we do and how to join us. For day-to-day news and events, see our Facebook page. We welcome new members and guests!
History & Mission
Mississippi Coast Audubon Society (MCAS) was chartered in 1976 by a group led by birder and writer Judith Toups. Judy recognized the need to establish a Least Tern habitat and to promote and protect this fragile beach-nesting species (thus our logo “Nest in Peace”). We have been involved in education, conservation, and protection of our natural resources in southern Mississippi ever since. By partnering with other agencies, we try to promote an awareness and concern for habitats by engaging the public in various activities along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Our chapter strives to promote interest, enjoyment, and understanding through education of all aspects of our natural and urban environment. We actively encourage the protection of wildlife and the preservation and restoration of native habitats.
Our Constitution and Bylaws (PDF format) are located here.
Winter 2026 field trips are live!
See our Winter 2026 page for more details about each trip!
Christmas Bird Count (CBC)
Join us as we celebrate the 126th Christmas Bird Count with local counts running from December 14 to January 5! Beginning in 1900, the CBC is the nation’s longest-running community science bird monitoring project. Now with over 80,000 volunteers that participate across the Western Hemisphere, data collected during this community science effort help identify trends and inform strategies to protect birds and the places they need.
For more information about this wonderful community science effort, please visit the National Audubon Society’s page here.
Hancock County – Tuesday, December 16th
To participate in the Hancock County CBC, please email hancockcountycbc@gmail.com to sign up.
Jackson County – Monday, January 5th
To participate in the Jackson County CBC, please email collin.stempien@audubon.org to sign up.
No experience necessary as you will be with other birders!
Nest in Peace Spotlight
Four new Nest in Peace signs were installed at the Important Bird Areas located in Gulfport earlier this year! Check out this cool newsletter spotlight of the project that was made possible by the Mississippi Ornithological Society!
