Anchorage Audubon Society

The Anchorage Audubon Society is the local chapter of the National Audubon Society, serving as Southcentral Alaska's primary organization for birding education, guided field trips, and conservation advocacy. Founded in 1969, the society draws members from across the Anchorage bowl and Mat-Su Valley who share an interest in Alaska's extraordinarily diverse avian life — from coastal shorebird flats to boreal forest interior species to offshore seabirds.

The society's field trip program is its most accessible entry point for new birders. Monthly guided walks visit key Anchorage birding locations throughout the year: Westchester Lagoon for migratory waterfowl and trumpeter swans, Potter Marsh for nesting red-necked grebes and sandpipers, Earthquake Park and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail for shorebirds during spring and fall migration, and various east-side parks for boreal species including redpolls, crossbills, and owls. Trips are free to attend and led by experienced local birders who know the seasonal patterns of Anchorage's urban and peri-urban habitat patchwork.

The annual Christmas Bird Count — one of the nation's oldest citizen science traditions — is one of Anchorage Audubon's signature events, counting winter bird populations across a defined geographic circle that encompasses the city and surrounding habitat. The Spring Bird Count similarly mobilizes volunteers across the region during peak migration. Both counts contribute data to long-term population monitoring programs and are open to birders of all skill levels.

Beyond field programs, the society runs education outreach into Anchorage schools and community organizations, hosts speaker events with naturalists and ornithologists, and maintains an active advocacy role on habitat conservation issues affecting Alaska's bird populations. Membership includes a subscription to the society's newsletter and discounts on Audubon publications.

Meetings and field trips are announced through the society's website at anchorageaudubon.org, where trip calendars, membership information, and contact details are maintained. New members and casual participants are warmly welcomed — no prior birding experience is required for most field trips.