Audubon << AW duh `BAHN` >> Society, National, is one of the oldest and largest national conservation organizations in the world. It was founded in 1905 and took the name of the American bird artist and naturalist John James Audubon. The society conserves and restores natural habitats for birds and other wildlife. It was founded by conservationists alarmed by the slaughter of thousands of birds to provide feather plumes for hats.
The Audubon Society has chapters throughout the United States. Its network of nature centers and sanctuaries celebrates the natural world and the importance of conservation. The society works to encourage sound public policy. These efforts focus on renewable energy, wildlife conservation, safeguarding clean air and water, and preserving and restoring natural places. Audubon also operates community science programs, such as the Christmas Bird Count, a survey of bird populations first done in 1900. The count has provided data on declining bird populations and changes in the migration of birds caused by global warming, an increase in the average temperature of Earth’s surface.
The organization publishes Audubon, a magazine. In 2009, the society’s new headquarters in New York City achieved the highest level of certification under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. This certification recognizes energy-saving and environmentally friendly buildings.
See also Audubon, John James; Bird (Bird study and protection).
