The National Audubon Society

The National Audubon Society is a conservation group that focuses on protecting birds and the places they need. It was founded in 1905 and named after John James Audubon, a famous bird artist. The society runs bird sanctuaries, does scientific research, and teaches people about birds. It has helped save many bird species from extinction.

Protecting Birds

The Audubon Society manages hundreds of nature centers and bird sanctuaries across the country. They work to protect important habitats like wetlands, forests, and coastlines where birds live and nest. The society also advocates for laws that protect birds from threats like pollution and habitat loss.

The Christmas Bird Count

Every year, the Audubon Society organizes the Christmas Bird Count. Thousands of volunteers go outside and count every bird they see. This has been happening since 1900, making it one of the longest-running citizen science projects. The data helps scientists understand how bird populations are changing over time.

Fun Facts

• The Christmas Bird Count started in 1900, when a scientist suggested counting birds instead of hunting them on Christmas Day.
• More than 80,000 volunteers participate in the Christmas Bird Count each year.
• The Audubon Society helped save the snowy egret from extinction when it was being hunted for its feathers in the early 1900s.

Did You Know?

John James Audubon painted 435 life-size illustrations of North American birds, and his paintings are still famous today!