Students, Mexican scholars, WFO, and WOS members on a field trip to the Yakama Nation Eagle Aviary at the 2025 Annual Conference. Photo: Michael Wilde.
The Western Field Ornithologists’ (WFO’s) annual Birdathon is taking flight once again, running from September 15 to October 31, 2025. This exciting event invites birders of all levels across the West—and beyond—to join in the fun, celebrate bird diversity, and most importantly, raise critical funds for WFO’s Student Programs. This year our goal is $30,000, and we need your help to get there!
Participating in the Birdathon is simple and rewarding. Bird solo or gather a team, set a goal for how many bird species you can identify, and invite friends, family, and fellow bird lovers to sponsor your effort. The event is flexible—you can participate for a single day or the full month, and you can bird in your backyard, local patch, or during a big adventure. Every bird counts!
Funds raised will go toward student scholarships to attend our conference and research awards. These programs are a core part of WFO’s commitment to fostering the future of field ornithology and ensuring a vibrant and inclusive birding community. In the past year, the organization supported 18 students from the United States and 10 scholars from Mexico to attend a WFO Annual Conference. In addition, WFO provided 10 research grants to students conducting ornithological research across the West. Your support during the Birdathon allows us to continue these wonderful programs for the next generation of birders.
Stay tuned for more details at staging6.westernfieldornithologists.org/, and follow us on social media for updates. Let’s make this our biggest and most bird-filled Birdathon yet!
Tell your friends and form your team today – there will be prizes for the best team name, most funds raised, and more!
Purchase your 2025 Birdathon shirt today! Available in various colors and styles. Click on the image or visit https://www.bonfire.com/2025-wfo-birdathon/ to view options and purchase.
August 2025 | Maci MacPherson, Administrator