Tree Swallow Spectacle on the Connecticut River aboard the RiverQuest
Private Charter for New Haven Bird Club
Wednesday, September 9, 2026 @ 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Join us for a cruise aboard the RiverQuest on the Connecticut River where hundreds of thousands of Tree Swallows gather in advance of their migration south. After spending the day miles away, the swallows return each night to sleep in the reeds along the river edge. They gather at sunset and perform aerial ballets forming an amazing display of art, coordination, and cooperation!
We will spend 2 hours on the water aboard the RiverQuest, a 64’ eco-tour boat. The cruise is primarily about the Tree Swallows; however, there is much to see while cruising along the river. Many birds are migrating through the area at this time and we’ll scan the skies and shores for Bald Eagles, Egrets, and more. On board Naturalists will educate you on the Tree Swallow phenomenon and the other wildlife we see. On the return cruise home, there is time to chat with others and experience the river at twilight, blending into night. Don’t forget your camera.
The cost for this special cruise is $55 per person and you must secure a place for yourself and any guests by purchasing tickets in advance. This event is open to New Haven Bird Club members and their guests and limited to 40 people. After August 1, if the boat is not filled, we will open registration to the general public.
This event is being conducted in association with Sunrise Birding LLC. To reserve your place, register with Sunrise Birding through this link: https://www.sunrisebirding.com/NHBC_SwallowCruiseRegistration2026.html. (Note that the link works best in Chrome and Safari.)
If the weather does not cooperate and the Captain must cancel due to fog, high winds or unforeseen circumstances, we will attempt to reschedule.