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.

Bird of the Year 2026

The 2026 Bird of the Year has been decided! It's the Sandhill Crane. Thank you for voting! Stay tuned for customized illustrations from artist Eric Cline and Bird of the Year gear.