For more than five decades, Western Field Ornithologists has been at the forefront of promoting the study, appreciation, and conservation of birds across western North America. Through its annual meetings, field expeditions, and the publication of the scientific journal Western Birds, WFO has cultivated a vibrant community of birders and scientists.

Now, in celebration of this rich history, the organization has embarked on an ambitious effort to document our past with the WFO Oral History Project. This project’s goal is to capture and preserve the voices and stories of individuals who have shaped WFO and the broader birding community. The interviews will be shared in video formats with WFO members and others on online.

Last year, I had the inspiration to capture video footage at the annual conference in San Diego to begin to build an archive. Discussing this idea with then-president John Harris and past-president and charter-member Jon Dunn, we expanded on the idea to develop a set of interviews and questions to capture WFO’s history and institutional knowledge. These oral histories will be a valuable resource for members and those interested in the dynamic history of birding and ornithology in the West.

Why Oral History Matters

Oral history is a powerful tool for preserving knowledge that might otherwise be lost. While written records and scientific publications document species distributions, trends, and discoveries, they often omit the personal experiences, challenges, and inspirations that drive the work. Through recorded interviews, WFO’s Oral History Project ensures that the voices behind the data are heard, offering unique perspectives on the development of the organization and the broader field of ornithology.

Who We Are Interviewing

The project features conversations with a diverse range of individuals, including founding members of WFO, long-time contributors to Western Birds, leading ornithologists, board members, and the broader WFO membership whose work has influenced ornithology across the region. With 20 interviews to date, we have captured stories of memorable moments and the camaraderie that has made WFO a close-knit community.

One of the key aspects of this project is its inclusivity. WFO recognizes that the history of bird study in the West is shaped not only by professional ornithologists but also by dedicated amateurs, conservationists, and educators who have played essential roles in fostering a deeper understanding of birds and their habitats.

Sharing the Stories

The interviews will be transcribed and archived, making them accessible to members and the public. Portions of the interviews will be featured on WFO’s website and YouTube channel, and through documentary-style videos. By making these stories widely available, WFO hopes to inspire current and future generations of birders and ornithologists.

Preview of Stories

Through this initiative, we have already captured remarkable stories that illuminate the history and passion behind WFO. Here is a preview of some of our favorites so far:

• Founding Moments: In October 1967, many of the founding members of WFO, including Guy McCaskie and Pierre Devillers, gathered in Monterey, California. Inspired by a Belgian organization and their desire to model a club with a scientific journal at its core, they decided to form California Field Ornithologists, which would become WFO. Two years later, letters were sent out inviting birders to join this new organization, marking the beginning of a collaborative and dynamic community.
• A Journal Takes Shape: Early contributors, like Joseph R. Jehl Jr., played essential roles in offering advice and helping founding member and the journal’s first editor, Alan Craig, edit manuscripts for the first three volumes of (now Western Birds). Meanwhile, Virginia Johnson’s graphic design skills transformed the journal, giving it a polished and professional appearance that set the standard for future publications.
• The Sabine’s Gull Story: One of the most fascinating anecdotes is the story behind the WFO logo, designed by founding member Virginia Johnson. It was inspired by a group of birders who, while traveling on Interstate 8 near Seeley, California, in 1969, spotted an adult Sabine’s Gull dodging traffic. This unexpected encounter with such a rare bird left a lasting impression and became a defining symbol of WFO.
• Community and Camaraderie: A founding member reminisced about the first WFO conference, where a small group of passionate birders gathered in a borrowed classroom. What started as an informal meeting has since grown into a large annual event with a significant impact.

How You Can Get Involved

WFO members are encouraged to participate in this effort. If you or someone you know has a story to share about WFO’s history, we want to hear from you!

The WFO Oral History Project is more than just a collection of interviews—it’s a living archive that celebrates the people who have made the organization what it is today. Through this initiative, we ensure that our voices continue to inspire, educate, and connect birders for generations to come.

For more information or to get involved, please contact Shaun Wilde via email at treasurer@westernfieldornithologists.org.

 

March 2025 | Shaun Wilde, Managing Director