Colorful songbirds flock back to Rhode Island from the tropics every spring.  The Audubon Society of Rhode Island's (ASRI) Birdathon, an annual event that celebrates the birds' return migration, is a 20-hour, bird-spotting marathon. It's for people interested in spending time outdoors, observing vibrant and interesting species of birds, and raising habitat conservation funds for the Audubon Society of Rhode Island. The Birdathon will be held on Saturday, May 17 - rain or shine.

The statewide event is a challenge for both advanced and beginning birders. The Birdathon starts at midnight and continues until 8:00 p.m. as competing teams - of at least four members - observe Rhode Island forests, marshes, beaches and skies in search of additions to their list. Teams can set their own pace and choose their favorite locations. The team that compiles the largest list of confirmed species wins the Robert A. Conway Trophy. Individuals compete for the Golden Plover Award for the most money raised. The event ends with an award ceremony and dinner at Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge in Smithfield.

Team members raise money for Audubon by securing pledges from family, friends, co-workers and others. Typically, sponsors pledge a specified amount for each species spotted by the team member they are supporting. Any level donation is gratefully accepted. The winning team usually observes approximately 140 species such as the Tennessee Warbler, King Rail, Least Bittern and Cliff Swallow.

A similar, but more relaxed version of the Birdathon allows observers to stay at home and count species at the backyard feeder. As with the competing teams, individuals are encouraged to seek pledges from friends and family that will support the Audubon Society of Rhode Island.

All are invited to take part in Audubon Society's Birdathon.  Individuals can join an existing team or assemble their own. 

Download forms here:

Welcome to Birdathon
Registration Forms
Birdathon Rules
Sponsorship Forms
Helpful Solicitation Letter
Birdathon Thank You

CREATE YOUR OWN FUNDRAISING WEBSITE

Setup your own personal Birdathon website by CLICKING HERE and securely raise funds online. It's easy!  Contact Jeff Hall to setup your own webpage.