The Hummingbird Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated
to teaching about hummingbirds and to preventing the
extinction of the 30 species that are at risk.
Probably no other bird is more universally loved than the
hummingbird! They are admired around the world, even though
they are found only in the Americas. Their tiny size, vibrant
colors, unusual method of flight and enormous variety are
unmatched.
Curiosity about hummingbirds fuels an intense interest in
them. That's why part of The Hummingbird Society's
mission—education—is aimed at providing answers to the
questions that people have. The Society maintains an
extensive website at www.hummingbirdsociety.org for that
purpose, and publishes a color journal (for members) as well.
It is surprising, even shocking to realize that about 10% of
the 329 hummingbird species are at risk of extinction!
Fortunately, none of the 16 species in the US fall into this
category, but from Mexico through Chile, some are at great
risk. In fact, 10 species are considered Critically
Endangered, with a 50-50 chance if extinction in just ten
years!
That's why it is a long-term goal of The Hummingbird Society
to work to prevent hummingbird extinctions. It does this by
evaluating which species it can help now, then forming an
alliance with people and organizations where the birds are
found, and then raising funds to carry out conservation
projects.
So far, the Society has chosen three species to pursue: The
Juan Fernández Firecrown (Chile), the Honduran Emerald
(Honduras), and the Colorful Puffleg (Colombia).
Most of the Society's support comes from memberships,
primarily individuals and families but also businesses.
Supporting the Society is one way to do your part in
preventing hummingbird extinctions! |