Today is Giving Tuesday Now, a day to celebrate the many ways that people in our communities and around the world have been helping each other during the global pandemic.

We’d like to thank you—our members and friends—for your unwavering support during these difficult times. You honor and inspire us with your commitment to protecting the wildlife and wild lands of Massachusetts.

Like all nonprofits, Mass Audubon is struggling with serious financial setbacks from lost admissions and program revenue. But thanks to you, our work continues, and is as important and as relevant as ever.

A few examples of what your generosity makes possible include:

• Our educators are creating new and innovative online learning tools and connecting with teachers, parents, and adult learners. For example, thousands of families across the state took part in our first Virtual April Vacation Week and many programs are now offered online.
• We are launching several new citizen science projects, and the Coastal Waterbird Program is continuing its critical work protecting endangered birds along miles of Massachusetts coastline.
• Dedicated staff continue the vital daily work of caring for over 38,000 acres across the state that are home to more than 150 endangered and threatened native species.

Your support today will help ensure that we will emerge even stronger tomorrow.

Thanks again for all you do to protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and wildlife.

Since 1983, Bird-a-thon , Mass Audubon’s largest annual fundraiser and birding competition, has been enjoyed by thousands of dedicated supporters and birders all the while raising over $3 million dollars for our wildlife sanctuaries and programs statewide.

It is very much part of Mass Audubon’s DNA, and we aren’t going to let COVID-19 stop us from having this beloved event. With a little reimagining, this year’s Bird-at-home-a-thon will be more engaging, inclusive, and even carbon-free! Here, we highlight some of this year’s changes.

How’s the birding different?

In past years, participants would spread out all across Massachusetts in groups of two or more, driving to the best birding spots in their area. This year participants are staying close to home to bird solo or with their household unit.

You’re welcome to bird from your back window, backyard, or a green space within walking or biking distance from your home. Not only will this new guideline keep everyone safe and help prevent the spread of COVID-19, it will also allow us to reduce our carbon footprint. It’s a win-win!

All 26 wildlife sanctuary and program teams will work together to collectively count as many bird species as possible. Birding isn’t so much a team effort, as it’s an organization effort.

What’s this new point system all about?

We’ve introduced a whole new point system this year that will invite more people into the community of birders and nature heroes. You can earn points for your team by birding and also by completing fun, nature-based activities. Drawing a picture of a bird, completing a bird word search, and filling up your bird feeder are just a few of the ways to earn points for your team.

Earning points can be something the whole family can help with, no matter their age or birding level. And based on the total number of points earned by your team, you could all win one of our two new awards!

One thing that hasn’t changed?

The fundraising! Bird-a-thon is still a vital way we raise important funds for our wildlife sanctuaries and programs. We rely on the generosity of our supporters to continue our work in nature conservation, environmental education, and addressing climate change. We can’t do it without you!

Want to join in?

To join a team, make a donation, or learn more, visit massaudubon.org/birdathon.

Thank you to our 2020 Bird-a-thon Sponsors!

Hostess Catering
Metlife