the site was originally planted as a refuge to attract, harbor and feed migratory and resident birds. the connecticut audubon society has documented sightings of more than 120 species of birds at this site, and the organization has operated a bird banding station here since 1979. the natural history museum contains mounted preserved animals displayed in dioramas depicting connecticut's wildlife as it existed at the end of the 20th century, as well as the frederick t. bedford collection of african animals.