American Ornithological Society (AOS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the scientific understanding of birds, and promoting the conservation of avian wildlife through research, education and citizen science. Founded in 1883 by Elliott Coues, AOS is one of the oldest birding organizations in North America.
The AOS serves as an international leader in ornithology with its commitment to scientific excellence. It publishes two peer-reviewed journals: The Auk: Ornithological Advances, which focuses on original research; and The Condor: Ornithological Applications, which covers applied aspects of ornithology such as conservation biology, management techniques, population monitoring programs and educational initiatives. Both journals are published quarterly and are available online through subscription services or free open access versions for current members.
In addition to publications related to bird science, the AOS also maintains several important databases including Avibase – a global database containing information about species distribution around the world; BirdLife International’s Threatened Birds Database – listing globally threatened species with associated extinction risk categories; eBird– a repository for sharing bird Observations from across the globe; SORA – an extensive collection of digitized journals and books pertaining to ornithology since 1790; Neotropical Birds Online – providing detailed accounts on all known neotropical birds; Breeding Bird Survey Data– summarizing long-term trends in abundance for breeding landbirds throughout North America since 1966; Partners In Flight Population Estimates Database– estimating population sizes based upon data collected during surveys conducted primarily between 2002-2007.;and BNA Online – offering comprehensive life histories on over 800 species found in North America.
All these resources help promote collaboration among researchers while enabling them to stay up to date with cutting edge findings across multiple disciplines within avian science worldwide. Additionally they provide valuable reference material for those interested in learning more about our feathered friends!
The American Orinthological Society also actively supports professional development opportunities such as grants awarded annually that fund graduate student research projects focused on avian ecology or behavior studies along with workshops designed specifically to train students how use certain software packages like ArcGIS or R programming language when analyzing their data sets . Moreover it hosts annual meetings attended by hundreds of members from various backgrounds who gather together exchange ideas discuss emerging technologies present papers participate panel discussions network social events plus enjoy field trips led by experienced guides showcase impressive photography exhibitions recognize outstanding achievements acknowledge volunteer contributions watch live demonstrations given expert practitioners learn best practices share experience stories review recent advances witness exciting talks given renowned keynote speakers offer internship placement positions etcetera… As result thereof many lifelong relationships have been forged throughout society’s history thus making it great place connect both aspiring professionals established experts alike!
Lastly yet importantly AOS works hard ensure awareness public environmental issues affecting birds collaborates numerous governmental agencies private organizations create develop implement effective policies protect habitats conserve endangered populations raise funds carry out necessary conservation efforts educate next generation citizens lead charge sustainable living continues make difference needs today tomorrow!