A big change is coming to the 40th anniversary of Audubon Omaha’s Fall Bird Seed Sale this October 31 and November 1. For years, bird seed orders were picked up at the garages of long-time volunteers such as Neal Ratzlaff (who has volunteered each of the 40 years) and Kathleen Crawford-Rose. In large part because of the coronavirus, bird seed orders will be picked up at the NEW Audubon Society of Omaha office and warehouse at 4339 S. 90th St.

While many sources report seeing more birds this year than ever, birding in large groups is problematic. Because of this, Audubon Society of Omaha has been following guidance from the National Audubon Society restricting birding to small groups. This limits our ability to get together for field birding trips. While gathering to bird as a large group remains restricted, birding in small groups with masks is something we should all do on a regular basis during this trying time.

Many birders and non-birders alike are familiar with the annual spring migration that occurs as colorful neotropical migrants make their way from South and Central America to their breeding grounds in the Canadian Boreal Forest. Less commonly appreciated is the southward fall migration of adult and, often, first-year babies.

The Audubon Society of Omaha has a new headquarters, and is searching for a part-time administrator who can provide support for our programming.

On Wednesday, May 20, the Audubon Society of Omaha will participate in the Omaha Gives! online fundraiser, a 24-hour, community-wide event to raise money for nonprofits in Douglas, Sarpy, and Pottawattamie counties.

More than 480 creative entries this year made judging the student artwork a challenge. Although we had to cancel the Art Show and Awards Ceremony, we are still awarding prizes and ribbons, which will be distributed to the winners when we get a chance to return the artwork. For a little taste, here are the Best in Show winners for 2020. Thanks to students, teachers and volunteers!

Many recent and upcoming ASO events have been canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the March Member Meeting with photographer Mike Benkis was postponed.

Now is the time to proclaim, “YIMBY, or ‘Yes, in my backyard!’” Your guide to setting up backyard feeding stations.

Together, Audubon Society of Omaha’s fall and winter birdseed sales netted $8,000, which will enable ASO to continue to sponsor education and conservation programs over the coming year.