Chapters’ Corner, April 2026

Twelve independent chapters operate within the Audubon Southwest region. Consider joining a chapter near you to participate in bird-related events near you and engage on local issues. Read on for current chapter highlights!  

2026 Joint State Chapter Gathering, April 2-4 
More than fifty chapter members representing nine of our 12 chapters gathered in Phoenix earlier this month for our biannual meeting. The energy was great as old friends got to catch-up and new friendships were made. We were especially happy to host members of our newest campus chapter from Arizona Western College (AWC) in Yuma. Participants enjoyed presentations about National Audubon’s Flight Plan, the Audubon Conservation Ranching Program, using storytelling to elevate conservation action, and how to increase membership and diversity of members. Break-out groups discussed fundraising, conservation activities, and campus chapter development. A big highlight was the Saturday birding excursions, with the Gilbert Riparian team tallying 47 species (and one wayward rooster). “Gilbert” was adopted by one of the  Arizona Western College students and is settling in with his new flock in Yuma as the clubs’ new mascot. 

Western Yellow-billed Cuckoo Surveying Internship 
Sonoran Audubon Society (SAS) is currently recruiting recent college graduates and upper-level college students for the 2026 Western Yellow-Billed Cuckoo Survey Certification Paid Internship Program that runs from mid-June thru mid-August 2026 (dates TBD). Interns will accompany Audubon biologists on established survey transects in central Arizona. Reliable transportation is required but carpooling is possible. Learn more and apply here. 

Continental Divide Trail Days in Silver City 
Bird Alliance of Southwestern New Mexico will be part of the Continental Divide Trail Days Speaker Series in Silver City on April 24. Brian Dolton, birder extraordinaire, will be sharing information about birds that hikers and enthusiasts may encounter along the Continental Divide Trail in southern New Mexico. See more information here.