About Western Field Ornithologists

WFO promotes the study, appreciation, and protection of birds across western North America—from Alaska and Hawaii to western Mexico and the Pacific.

Join WFO
Image
American Avocet
Image
Sandhill Crane

Vision & Mission

Advance the study
of western birds through field-based research
Protect habitats
critical for bird populations
Mentor students and young ornithologists
through scholarships and field experiences

Share discoveries

through Western Birds, our peer-reviewed journal

WFO: The Ultimate Birding Community

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, this is the community you didn’t know you needed. In this short video, discover what makes WFO a hub for passionate bird lovers across western North America. From expert-led field trips to our renowned Western Birds journal and annual conferences, we bring together birders, ornithologists, and naturalists who share a love for birds and their habitats.

Board of Directors and Staff

Composed of five officers and 12 directors, WFO’s board, with the vital assistance of staff, implements activities that serve the organization’s mission. Meet the leadership and scientific advisors who guide our organization.

Officers

Image

Dan Ruthrauff

President
Image

Char Glacy

Vice President
Image

Debbie Van Dooremolen

Past President
Image

Shaun Wilde

Managing Director / Treasurer
Image

Dan King

Director / Recording Secretary

Staff

Image

Shaun Wilde

Managing Director / Treasurer
Image

Lauren Smith

Newsletter Editor
Image

Maci MacPherson

Administrator

Directors

Image

Dan King

Director / Recording Secretary
Image

Debbie House

Image

Diana Herron

Image

Elisabeth Ammon

Image

Hiram Rafael Moreno-Higareda

Image

Isabelle Busch

Image

Phil Unitt

Ex officio Board Member
Image

Robert McKernan

Image

Robin Leong

Image

Rodd Kelsey

Image

Teodelina Martelli

Bylaws

Download WFO Bylaws
(opens in a new tab)
Coming Soon: Additional board details including minutes; If you have an urgent request please email contact@westernfieldornithologists.org.

Oral History Interviews

This YouTube playlist is a collection of 20 oral history interviews conducted at the 2024 WFO conference in San Diego. This collection represents an important archival effort to document the expertise and perspectives of established ornithologists in the western United States.

Features interviews with: 

Nathan Pieplow
Wendy Beers
Tom Blackman
Catherine Pannell Waters
Debbie Van Dooremolen
Ed Pandolfino
Ed Harper
John Harris
Kurt Leuschner
Guy McCaskie
Narca Moore
Pierre Devillers & Jean Terschuren
Dave Quady
Robbie Fischer
Christopher Swarth
Phillip Unitt
Dan Ruthrauff
Jon Dunn
Tim Manolis
Kimball Garrett

DEI Statement

WFO is committed to creating an inclusive space for people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We believe diverse voices strengthen the field of ornithology and the birding community at large.
Image

Ready to take flight with WFO?

Become a Member Today
Browse Upcoming Events