Mission

Illustration of a razorbill bird diving.

The mission of the Friends of Maine Coastal Islands NWR is to support Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge in its efforts to conserve, protect, and enhance the rich diversity of coastal habitats, seabirds, and other wildlife.

Digital illustration of a common murre bird diving.
A puffin standing on rocks with moss, facing to the right.

Who we ARE

The Friends of Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge (FOMCI) was founded as a non-profit organization in 2003. It is formerly known as the Friends of Maine Seabird Islands. As one of over 185 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) “Friends” organizations around the country, our work is guided by the USFWS Friends Policy and we are affiliated with the National Wildlife Refuge Association, but operate as an independent organization.

A wet bird chick with its mouth open lying on the ground among small plants, twigs, and rocks.

What we Do

FOMCI supports the Refuge by contributing funds for seabird research and supporting student interns working on the seabird nesting islands: Metinic Island, Petit Manan Island, and Ship Island. These interns are critical to the nesting success of our seabirds, protecting them from disturbance by humans and predators.

making

a difference

Maine Coastal Islands NWR has seen a steady restoration of nesting seabirds over the past 50 years. This would not be possible without the combined effort of the dedicated professionals from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the hard-working summer interns.

A smiling young woman holding a brown duck outdoors on a grassy field with a blurred natural background.

The Future of Maine's Seabirds is

in Your Hands!