It was back in 1983 that a flock gathered at the usual haunt, the C-View Inn, for some frosty beverages after a day in the field. When birders swap tales it mirrors those of fisherman boasting about an unbelievable catch. Such stories often evolve and a few drinks later the genius ideas begin to flow...
On this occasion the idea was genius and is to date the world’s premier birding event. The World Series of Birding quickly transformed from an idea to a 24-hour marathon. This year we celebrate 25 years of history in the making.
Many great birders have raised glasses in this event over the years. It all began at midnight on May 19, 1984, when 13 teams set out on a treasure hunt. Their mission was to tally as many species of birds by sight or sound in a 24-hour period within the state of New Jersey. Their objective was to raise money for their favorite environmental cause, and to focus attention upon the habitat needs of migratory birds. They succeeded beyond anyone’s dreams.
Roger Tory Peterson, pictured here with Pete Dunne, led the winning team – recording 201 species in 24-hours.
The event is also fun. Rick Bonney, a founding member of the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology “Sapsuckers” team, expressed it best. Said Rick, “When I was a kid, I used to measure the passage of time by Christmases. Now it’s the World Series of Birding that marks time.”
Since 1984, this event has changed the birding landscape and has raised over $8,000,000 for bird conservation. Through the competitive efforts of WSB teams, money has been raised to benefit a number of causes, clubs, and organizations. NJAS provides the playing field and the team chooses where they want their pledges to go, it is that simple. So gather your team mates and share in the excitement of North America’s most celebrated conservation event – the World Series of Birding.
The WSB is held annually in May, rain or shine, we hope to see you at the finish line!