National Audubon Society

What is the National Audubon Society

The National Audubon Society is a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to the conservation of birds and their habitats. Established in 1905, it is one of the most recognized names in birding. Their website serves as a comprehensive hub for conservation advocacy, climate science, and bird identification, functioning as both a digital field guide and a news portal for environmental issues.

How does the National Audubon Society work

The platform works on two fronts: education and action. For education, it offers the 'Guide to North American Birds,' a digital encyclopedia featuring photography and audio. For action, it connects users with local chapters, provides tools to write to legislators, and organizes citizen science projects like the famous Christmas Bird Count.

Benefits of the National Audubon Society

Audubon provides authoritative, high-quality information backed by over a century of expertise. It empowers birders to go beyond observation and participate in protection. Their 'Native Plants Database' is a unique benefit, helping homeowners create bird-friendly gardens based on their specific zip code.

Pros and Cons of the National Audubon Society

Pros

• High-Quality Guide: Features stunning professional photography and reliable range maps.
• Action-Oriented: easy ways to get involved in conservation legislation.
• Native Plant Finder: Excellent tool for gardening for birds.
• Free App: The Audubon Bird Guide app is a robust, free resource.

Cons

• US-Centric: Focuses primarily on North American species and policy.
• Split Focus: The site is a mix of politics/advocacy and birding, which may distract pure birders.

Core Features of the National Audubon Society

Online Field Guide A searchable database of North American birds with photos, songs, and climate vulnerability data.

Native Plants Database A tool where users enter their zip code to find the best local plants to attract birds.

Climate Survival Monitor Data visualizations showing how climate change will shift bird ranges in the future.

Audubon Live Cams Streaming video feeds from puffin colonies, osprey nests, and more.

Use Cases of the National Audubon Society

• Gardeners: Looking for native plants to attract hummingbirds or orioles.
• Activists: Staying updated on environmental laws affecting wildlife.
• Birders: Using the field guide to distinguish between similar North American species.

FAQs of the National Audubon Society

Is the Audubon Guide free? Yes, both the website guide and the mobile app are completely free.

Can I join Audubon? Yes, you can become a member to receive their magazine and support conservation work.

How to use the National Audubon Society

1. Visit the Site: Go to audubon.org.
2. Identify Birds: Click 'Birds & Guides' to access the field guide.
3. Find Plants: Use the 'Native Plants' tool and enter your zip code.
4. Get Involved: Check the 'Take Action' section to sign petitions or find a local chapter.