Usually at this time of year I would be sharing the latest great bird sighting with you, but this is not a usual time.  COVID has affected everyone.  And, while it has highlighted how much science is needed in the modern world, in many places COVID is stopping or impairing our ability conduct critical science and conservation and that is why I am asking for your help.  On May 30^th I will be doing a BirdLife Bird-A-Thon for global bird conservation.

Migration demonstrates how we are one interconnected eco-system.  And the COVID pandemic, which has its roots in habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade, highlights how much we need to support the people continuing to address the most pressing environmental problems endangering birds and humans alike.  Whether it is working to stop the poachers and smugglers who supply the illegal wildlife markets that breed pandemics or restoring habitat scorched by recent wildfires, the BirdLife network has not stopped, and neither can we.

That is why, on May 30^th I will do a COVID-safe, individual Bird-A-Thon for BirdLife’s global bird conservation work.  You probably know the game, donate to my efforts and you will be supporting the people tirelessly working to make a healthier planet for all of us.  In keeping with COVID limitations I will only visit sites within 25 miles of my home but in the biodiverse Hudson Valley my goal is to see at least 120 species.  In trying to keep things as simply and cost effective as possible I am asking people to simply make a donation rather than a per species pledge.

My goal is to raise at least $10,500, the average annual salary a scientist working in Myanmar on globally important Spoonbill Sandpiper work earns, please help me surpass that goal so many more scientists and conservationists can continue doing their vital global conservation work.