Below is a list of resources to help you enjoy Alabama’s birder-friendly natural environment. We’ll continue to add to this list as time goes on!
Alabama Resources
The Alabama Department of Conservation: The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is an executive and administrative department of the State of Alabama created by statute. The Commissioner, appointed by the Governor as a member of his cabinet, advises the Governor and Legislature on management of freshwater fish, wildlife, marine resources, waterway safety, state lands, state parks, and other natural resources. https://www.outdooralabama.com/wildlife/birds
AL Birds: for the discussion of wild birds, birdwatching and birding related issues (conservation, field trips, etc…) in Alabama. This email/online listserve is an excellent resource for finding out where birds are being seen right now, along with beautiful photos and entertaining commentary. birding.aba.org/maillist/AL
Alabama Audubon: The mission of Alabama Audubon is to promote conservation and a greater knowledge of birds, their habitat, and the natural world. Alabama Audubon leads trips across the region and throughout Alabama. They have beginner bird walks, classes to help you become a better birder and lead short and full day field trips looking for great birding. www.alaudubon.org
Alabama Ornithological Society: The Alabama Ornithological Society (AOS) is involved in many worthwhile activities. Check out our website pages to learn more about AOS and the efforts we are currently involved with to promote ethical birding and the conservation of Alabama’s natural resources. aosbirds.org
Downloadable Guides: Several of our birding trail locations have downloadable guides. We are beginning to collect them here.
Teacher Resources
Outdoor Classroom Birding Trail Map
Birding Trail Outdoor Classroom Information
National Resources
National Audubon: Protecting waterbird populations has been part of Audubon’s mission even before the official establishment of the National Audubon Society. Outrage over the slaughter of millions of waterbirds, particularly egrets and other waders, for the millinery trade led to the foundation of the Massachusetts Audubon Society in 1896. www.audubon.org
Ebird: A real-time, online checklist program, eBird has revolutionized the way that the birding community reports and accesses information about birds. Launched in 2002 by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society, eBird provides rich data sources for basic information on bird abundance and distribution at a variety of spatial and temporal scales. www.ebird.org
Cornell Lab of Ornithology: The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a world leader in the study, appreciation, and conservation of birds. Our hallmarks are scientific excellence and technological innovation to advance the understanding of nature and to engage people of all ages in learning about birds and protecting the planet. www.birds.cornell.edu
All About Birds: Your online guide to birds and bird watching. www.allaboutbirds.org