The Bowdoin Scientific Station is perhaps best known for research on seabirds, especially gulls and storm-petrels. About 80,000 birds representing more than a hundred species have been banded on the island since 1935. Researchers at the Station are encouraged to publish the results of their investigations in peer-reviewed journals with contribution numbers from the Bowdoin Scientific Station. Although classes are not offered at the Station, undergraduates gain valuable training as field assistants through their involvement in research projects. Informal research seminars are presented periodically during the summer.
Mail is delivered weekly to Kent Island.
During the summer, the station communicates frequently with Grand Manan Island via short-wave radio. Day trips for non-profit educational groups are welcome without charge. The costs of operating the Bowdoin Scientific Station are covered by Bowdoin College, grants, gifts, and endowment funds such as the Minot, Gross, Huntington-Wheelwright, and Spear Funds. Because the Station has only a small staff, visitors are expected to help with housekeeping chores.