The American Biding Association (ABA) was formally known as the American Bird Watchers Association until 1969 when the name was changed to what it is today. The American Birding Association was a key element in the sport of birding and presenting it to the public. Before the ABA was formed in 1968 there were no formal publications on birding. Enthusiasts had to rely heavily on references from friends. It was extremely difficult to gain any information that would help in the process of identifying species as well as locating them.



Publications put out by the Audubon were mainly focused on conservation and little to do with bird identification. This all changed when the ABA was formed with the publication of the "Bird Watchers Digest" which was quickly changed to "Birding". It was through this publication that the guidelines for the ABA were discussed and agreed upon by avid birders. It was agreed upon that the main focus of the ABA would be the hobby and sport of birding. After about twenty years of this focus, it was finally agreed that the ABA would allow the topic of conservation to be addressed in addition to its primary focus of birding.

In the early years of the ABA, the "Birding" publication was the whole of the organization. Now with the passing of 39 years, the ABA has grown to encompass a wide range of communications in the birding community. With a ABA membership you are entitled to publications, participation in conferences, conventions, travel related benefits, ABA tours, ability to purchase gear through ABA sales, and a change to get involved in the community; definitely a far cry from the early days of the ABA. The ABA is a great organization aimed at birding interests such as identification, listing, education, and conservation.

Association of Field Ornithologists

The Association of Field Ornithologist (AFO) was founded in 1922. The AFO is one of the leading societies of both professional and beginner ornithologists. They are committed to the scientific study as well as the circulation of their studies about birds in their natural habitats. The AFO is a membership organization devoted to bird conservation and study. The AFO is a great source of communication between the beginner and professional ornithologist.

For those not familiar with the term ornithologist, it is basically someone who studies all aspects of birds. They focus on how they live, feed, evolve, the biology of a bird, and how they are affected by the changes in environment. The AFO is one of the six major societies in North America. Upon becoming a member you are provided with the quarterly "Journal of Field Ornithology", AFO association newsletter, invite the AFO annual meeting, discounts, and a bimonthly newsletter. A very informative tool when one has an interest in the inner workings of birds.