Among the many species that will be documented by World Series teams, a Cape May Warbler draws attention to the center of World Series activities – the city of Cape May, New Jersey (photo by Paul Konrad).

Initiated in 1984, the World Series of Birding is an annual event sponsored by New Jersey Audubon to help environmental organizations raise money for bird conservation. Top-placing teams have recorded more than 200 species in the state, sometimes more than 1/3 of all the species in North America! The World Series of Birding is a “competitive” big day being held during the 24 hours of Saturday May 11, and just like a marathon, the accent is on participating, not winning; and there are many benefits to participants, teams, and sponsors.

Among the variety of benefits, the World Series of Birding 1) brings attention to the habitat needs of migrating birds, 2) provides birders with a chance to test and use their birding skills for a great cause, 3) creates a forum for interactions between birders, conservation groups, and businesses that provide products and services to the birding market, 4) generates hundreds of thousands of dollars for many worthy conservation organizations and projects, 5) focuses national attention on the challenge and adventures of birding, and 6) It’s Fun!

As the clock striked midnight on May 19, 1984, the first 13 teams began a 24-hour treasure hunt in New Jersey with the mission to tally as many different species of birds by sight or sound. Their objective was to raise money for their favorite environmental cause, and to focus attention on the habitat needs of migrating birds. They succeeded beyond anyone’s dreams, and in 2024 there may be more than 90 teams and participants vie for glory and their share of the excitement in North America’s most spirited conservation fundraising event, the annual World Series of Birding. Anyone can join the fun of birding while raising money and awareness for bird and habitat conservation. Learn more at World Series of Birding | New Jersey Audubon (njaudubon.org)