Why become a member of the Wilson Ornithological Society? There is a great deal to be said for tradition. Many aspiring and young professionals currently favor titles and labels as ecosystem scientists to reflect their range of field-oriented study of the life sciences, but there is no penalty, or shame, in also identifying as an ornithologist.

What a long, proud, and significant record ornithologists have in contributing to our fundamental knowledge as well as to the understanding of modern principles and the use of sophisticated tools to study biology, from molecular biology to all aspects of field-oriented study of the environment!

WOS has an equally distinguished scientific record, perhaps strongest in encouraging and supporting students and young professional, from the relatively small intimate annual meetings that characteristically offer travel support to attending students at all levels, several awards recognizing notable study and presentation, and a first class scientific journal willing to evaluate the full range of avian science.

WOS invites scientists of all ages and vocation to become members of the Society, no matter how or where their specific interest in birds may be. When judged appropriate, faculty and students in education will find a nurturing Society to encourage or support teaching and research at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. Government, non-government, industrial, and other administrative and research scientists will find valuable resources to encourage and support specific study, collaboration, and publication opportunities. WOS requests you commit to our organization as a member, as actively as your time and energy allow, improving our collective and individual abilities to scientifically study birds, and expand our fellowship and friendship sharing our passion for these exquisite and magnificent feathered creatures we study and care about together.

Please take look at our many offerings on this website and see how you will benefit by being a member. From undergraduates to career professionals, there is something here for all!

~ Peter Saenger, Chair, Membership Committee, October 2017