The COA Mini-Grant committee is now accepting applications for the 2016 wards. The program is designed to help fund projects in Connecticut which specifically benefit Connecticut's birds. Successful applications in past years have been for such items as materials for 10 Kestrel nest boxes ($500.00), a raptor enclosure for educational birds ($700.00) and a sound system to attract Purple Martins to an existing "apartment complex" in a wildlife preserve ($350.00). The total amount available is $2,500.00 and the deadline for submission is January 15, 2016. Complete information and application forms can be found on the COA Web site at: http://ctbirding.org/minigrantguide.htm. Kathy Van Der Aue Southport, Connecticut Visit my Blog at http://naturaliststable.wordpress.com