Avian Haven

Nestled in the beauty of Freedom, Maine, Avian Haven was incorporated as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization by Marc Payne and Diane Winn in 1999. Over the years, our annual patient load has grown from 300 to nearly 3,000 birds, making us one of the largest avian rehabilitation centers in New England. To date, we have treated more than 45,000 wild birds representing over 140 species — from songbirds and seabirds to raptors and waterfowl.

We provide care for birds that are orphaned, sick, or injured, with the goal of returning them to their natural habitats. In addition to our dedicated staff, our work is supported by a vital network of onsite volunteers, transporters, and interns.

In recent years, Avian Haven has transitioned to an Executive Director-led organization, guided by a vibrant and engaged Board of Directors. Together, our leadership team is committed to sustaining the organization’s mission, stewarding its resources, and ensuring its continued excellence in bird rehabilitation and public trust.

Avian Haven’s facilities are nationally recognized as among the best in the field of wild bird rehabilitation. Located on a 150-acre property in central Maine, our center includes over 40 outdoor enclosures designed to meet the diverse needs of the more than 140 species we admit annually — from tiny hummingbirds to majestic bald eagles.

Our flight enclosures provide birds with the space and structure they need to regain flight strength and coordination before release. These include specialized enclosures for songbirds, raptors, corvids, waterfowl, and seabirds, as well as a large water pool complex for aquatic species. In addition to species-specific care areas, our facilities include an intensive care wing, triage spaces, and a fully equipped clinic.

Each structure is built with a strong emphasis on safety, species-appropriate design, and minimizing human imprinting. Our eagle and large-raptor enclosures are among the largest in the eastern U.S., and we regularly consult with other rehabilitation centers seeking to replicate aspects of our design.

Continual upgrades and maintenance ensure that our facilities remain at the forefront of wildlife rehabilitation standards. Thanks to the support of our donors and volunteers, we are able to provide the best possible environment for every bird’s journey from rescue to release.