Founded in 1957, our club promotes the conservation of natural resources and the enjoyment and protection of birds, flora, and fauna.

We’re an organization of Columbia County residents and interested parties with a common bond—love of nature and fascination with its wildlife.  Some of us are experts in these fields, others just love the outdoors.

We offer the opportunity to take part in our many activities:  bird walks, lectures, contributing to our monthly newsletter, and helping maintain our Sanctuary.
 

Field Trips

We journey to places on the Hudson River, marsh areas, lakes, ponds, and hawk observation points.  We have noted 293 species of birds which breed or migrate in our area.  We collect data on distribution and migration and provide it to the National Audubon Society, New York State Ornithological Association and also report sightings in our monthly newsletter, The Warbler.

Education

The club sponsors wildlife education to school children through our support of National Audubon’s Audubon Adventures, a publication distributed to local classrooms which is supported by club members, community organizations, and businesses.  We also provide scholarships for youth to attend DEC’s summer ecology camps and fund Nature’s Classroom outings in the public schools.

The Wilson M. Powell Wildlife Sanctuary

Established in 1959 near Old Chatham, this preserve is owned and maintained by the club for conservation, outdoor education, and the enjoyment of nature.  The preserve is protected by law from any future development or usage other than as a wildlife sanctuary.  The 140 acre refuge includes a mixed habitat of wooded hills, fields, marsh, pond, and streams—home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife.  Its grounds are tended by members and others throughout all seasons; these volunteers clear the trails, maintain the facilities, and care for the nesting boxes and feeding stations.  The Sanctuary is open to the public free of charge during daylight hours throughout the year.   Tour leaders can be provided for school or other groups as a community service of the Alan Devoe Bird Club.

The Annual Bird-A-Thon

This is the club’s principal fundraising event, held each May during spring migration.  It provides funds for donations to many environmental organizations and supports the club’s activities.

The Warbler
Our Monthly Newsletter

We publish and mail to members this report containing articles of interest on birding and wildlife, lists of current sightings, and notices of club activities and schedules.

Club Activities

Along with the annual Bird-A-Thon, the club participates in National Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count, NYSOA's periodic Breeding Bird Atlas projects, and the Winter Waterfowl census.  Social activities include pot-luck dinners after the Bird-A-Thon and Christmas Count, as well as the annual dinner.  Club members and invited speakers present programs on wildlife and, of course, birding at our general meetings.