About Us

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.

Spring 2026 field trips are live!

See our Spring 2026 page for more details about each trip!

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!

Spring 2026 Mississippi Ornithological Society Meeting

Registration for the spring 2026 MOS meeting is open. Here is the link with details and registration: https://www.missbird.org/events/spring-2026-mos

This meeting will be May 1-3 in Moss Point/Pascagoula, Jackson County. Further details are on the website. It will be a fun weekend of birding, fellowship, and learning about some interesting recent coastal bird research. MOS encourages you to check out their revamped website above!

Osprey at Pascagoula River Audubon Center in Moss Point, Mississippi on May 29, 2025. Pascagoula River Audubon Center is a conservation action center that educates and engages the local community with nature and science.