Audubon Alaska's Bird of the Year

Each year, Audubon Alaska launches an engagement campaign as a way for followers and members to learn more about Alaska species and Audubon’s priority birds.

The team selects three species that directly tie into our policy and advocacy actions or apolitical conservation work. The elected bird species becomes a spokesbird on public land issues like mining in the Safety Sound Important Bird Area near Nome, roadbuilding through Izembek National Wildlife Refuge, oil and gas extraction in the Arctic, and logging on the Tongass National Forest.

Once a species is elected, we work with a graphic artist to illustrate the spokesbird for merchandise offered at Alaska’s bird festivals—the proceeds from which further fund our work in Alaska. We also connect with Tribal communities to integrate Alaska Native language into overall outreach messaging.

Visit the Audubon Alaska store to shop all our available products, including current Bird of the Year hats.

Vote for Bird of the Year 2027

It’s already time again! Voting is open till January 31, 2027, for Bird of the Year, and we’re highlighting three special candidates: the Brant, the Gyrfalcon, and the Blackpoll Warbler!

Cast your vote, and graphic artist Eric Cline will illustrate the winner. Vote for your candidate here!