The interest and pleasure in the observation of birds, concern about how climate change is affecting our planet, and the necessity of preserving trees and forests are topics that continue to take on increasing prominence. On December 7 at 6:45, hear from representatives of the National Audubon Society and the Smithsonian’s National Zoo about new and upcoming projects that offer insights into the world of trees and the birds that inhabit them.

This spring saw the publication of the first field guides to appear from the National Audubon Society since 1995, new and expanded editions of Birds of North America and Trees of North America. The reference books spotlight the conservation statuses of species, highlight the impact of climate change, and feature thousands of full-color photographs. John Rowden, senior director of bird-friendly communities at the National Audubon Society, provides an overview of the new guides and Audubon’s conservation efforts to protect birds and the places they need, from backyards to projects abroad.

Birds, their migration patterns, and trees are also central to the work of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, and by spring 2022 the zoo’s historic 1928 Bird House will be transformed into a celebration of birds and bird migration through the Americas.

With almost 100 species of birds, this will be the first zoo exhibition of this size that focuses on the miraculous annual journeys of migratory songbirds, waterfowl, and shorebirds integral to North, Central, and South American ecosystems.

Through themed walk-through aviaries, interactive experiences, and educational programming, the new Bird House will offer visitors opportunities to connect to birds and the phenomenon of migration in entirely new ways.

Research wildlife biologist Scott Sillett, head of the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, previews the Bird House project and shares information about bird-friendly campaigns underway at the Smithsonian.

Rowden and Sillett also discuss ways that anyone can help birds by creating and encouraging bird-friendly spaces and communities, particularly during the winter holiday season.

Book Sale Information

• Purchase your copy of National Audubon Society Birds of North America by National Audubon Society here.
• Purchase your copy of National Audubon Society Trees of North America by National Audubon Society here.
• SPECIAL NOTE: Politics and Prose is offering a 10% discount to Smithsonian Associates ticket-holders. To claim your discount, enter the code SPECIAL10 (no space between letters and numbers) in the “Coupon discount” section on Politics and Prose’s check-out page.

Registration Information

$20 for Smithsonian Members, $25 for nonmembers. Register HERE.