Voting heating up for Audubon California’s Bird of the Year

Voting continues for Audubon California’s 2013 Bird of the Year (@AudubonCA), which recognizes a California bird species of conservation interest. This year also brings the addition of two new categories: Comeback Kid and Cutest Fluffy Fluff. So far, more than 10,000 votes have been submitted. All members of the public are encouraged to cast their votes online on Audubon California’s website at ca.audubon.org through Dec. 6, and people can vote as many times as they wish.

Audubon California established the contest four years ago to highlight the state’s remarkable birds and the conservation challenges many of them face. The Yellow-billed Magpie, the Barn Owl, the California Condor, and the Sandhill Crane have all previously held the title of Bird of the Year.

“Birds are the one form of wildlife people see every day,” said Brigid McCormack, Audubon California’s managing director. “Our hope is to allow the public to celebrate their favorite species and become involved in our conservation efforts to protect all California birds.”

Although the public can vote for any bird, Audubon California has nominated six species in particular:

• Burrowing Owl
• Golden Eagle
• Black-necked Stilt
• Loggerhead Shrike
• Brown Pelican
• Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo

“What’s special about Audubon is our strong network of chapters and volunteers working to protect our most vulnerable birds,” said McCormack. “Every bird on this list is supported by an Audubon conservation effort.”

About Audubon California 

Audubon California is building a better future for California by bringing people together to appreciate, enjoy and protect our spectacular outdoor treasures. With more than 50,000 members in California and an affiliated 48 local Audubon chapters, Audubon California is a field program of the National Audubon Society.

More information is available at www.ca.audubon.org.