A place for wildlife and you for 50 years
Be a Friend of the Sanctuary
To help Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary with a personal donation, become a member.
Be a Part Of
Our Mission
The mission of Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary is to protect native habitats and wildlife while providing opportunity for people to discover and connect with nature.
Annual Giving
Annual Giving 2026
Martha Lafite is celebrating its 50th year in 2026!
Supporting MLTNS today ensures that wildlife will continue to find refuge, learners of all ages can explore the outdoors, and this special place remains open for inspiration and discovery for generations to come. Click here to make your tax-deductible donation or scan the QR code below.
Happening Now!
“Where Nature Takes Flight” will be a year filled with birds and birding activities for all ages. A bird exhibit in the Nature Center, a Hummingbird Viewing Deck, and bird feeders all around the Nature Center will provide many opportunities to learn about and watch birds in every season. There is so much to celebrate as we embark on our 50th year, and we want YOU to be part of it!
Come to Breakfast with the Birds on February 21 and enjoy a fun and informative morning with ornithologist Mark McKellar, owner of Backyard Bird Center and creator of Mark’s Backyard Birds on YouTube.
Mark will share his bird-feeding tips, answer your questions, and help you make your backyard a haven for feathered friends.
Enjoy a pancake breakfast (with gluten-free options), sausage, fruit, juice, and coffee.
Registration is required: https://tinyurl.com/Feb26BirdBreakfast
Your Journey
Experience Nature
The area is open for hiking, nature study, birding, photography, sketching and relaxing in the beauty of the natural world.
A Place in Time
History and Pictures
MLTNS has an incredible history that begins with Martha Lafite, extends from the 1996 Center expansion to the enjoyment of nature and programs that are found here today.
1911 – 1975
Martha Lafite Thompson
Leave only footprints,
take only memories
Martha grew up in Liberty and graduated from Liberty High School. She married Omar Thompson, who owned and operated a greenhouse and nursery. In 1954 the Thompsons purchased 53 acres of land, which is now the west section of the Nature Sanctuary.
They enlisted the aid of Audubon members to begin restoration of the property and Martha worked with local attorney, Conn Withers, to establish her vision of the Nature Sanctuary.
For more info on Martha Lafite Thompson Nature Sanctuary and MLTNS History, click here.