Norman Bird Sanctuary Established in 1949 at the bequest of Mabel Norman Cerio, the Norman Bird Sanctuary, under the charge of her will, was to maintain 235 acres of land “for the propagation, preservation, and protection of birds, and where birds and bird life may be observed, studied, taught, and enjoyed by lovers of nature and by the public generally so interested in a spirit of humanity and mercy.” Over the years, NBS has grown to include more than 325 acres of diverse habitats, and its mission remains true to Mabel Norman Cerio’s original vision. The Sanctuary is a community organization that has impacted the quality of life on Aquidneck Island and across the state for over sixty years.