Alicia Frances King
907-268-0124
executive.director@wsobirds.org
Wisconsin Society for Ornithology seeks nominations for 2026 Passenger Pigeon Awards
Madison, Sept. 18, 2025 — The Wisconsin Society for Ornithology Passenger Pigeon Award nomination period is open, and submissions will be accepted through December 31, 2025.
The Wisconsin Society for Ornithology Passenger Pigeon Awards program recognizes individuals or organizations that have made outstanding achievements in advancing bird conservation, promoting the field of ornithology, and contributing to the Society. The Wisconsin Society for Ornithology board of directors selects recipients based on nominations received during the open nomination period.
“The value of nature and birds and conservation is immeasurable, and we are ever so grateful for those who work on the behalf of Wisconsin’s birds. Nominations give special thought to those ornithologists, bird watchers, and conservation workers or volunteers you feel deserve statewide recognition,” said Wendy Schultz, Wisconsin Society for Ornithology awards chair.
Awards given to these exceptional individuals and organizations will be recognized during the awards presentation Friday night dinner at the next Wisconsin Society for Ornithology 84th Annual Convention to be held in Madison at the Inn Towner May 15 through May 17, 2026.
Award Categories
- Bronze Passenger Pigeon - presented to individuals who have made outstanding contributions in their local communities or in the state to promote the field of ornithology.
- Silver Passenger Pigeon – presented to members of WSO for distinguished service to the Society.
- Certificate of Appreciation - given to previous recipients of the Silver Passenger Pigeon who continue to provide exceptional service to the WSO.
- Golden Passenger Pigeon – presented to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the field of ornithology.
- Noel J. Cutright Conservation Award - recognizes outstanding contributions to bird conservation in Wisconsin.
- Samuel D. Robbins Lifetime Achievement – honors people who actively contribute to the Wisconsin Society for Ornithology above and beyond their having previously received the Silver Passenger Pigeon Award.
- Special Recognition Award – recognizes the collective efforts of a far-reaching project or partnership that increases the public's awareness and appreciation for birds, their habitats or the need for conservation.
- Hospitality – recognizes home and business owners that are gracious hosts and stewards of rare bird species.
For further information about the awards or the awards process visit Awards - Wisconsin Society for Ornithology (wsobirds.org/what-we-do/awards). The nomination form can be accessed here - Awards Nomination - Wisconsin Society for Ornithology (wsobirds.org/awards-nomination)
###
The Wisconsin Society for Ornithology is a nonprofit organization established in 1939 whose mission is: promoting the enjoyment, study, and conservation of Wisconsin’s birds. The Wisconsin Society for Ornithology sponsors birding field trips throughout the year, hosts an annual birding convention, publishes a quarterly journal and monthly newsletter, offers research grants, and serves as an informational resource center on bird-related issues. The Society provides opportunities for all people to enjoy resident and migratory birds, while being a leading steward of and ambassador for Wisconsin birds. Home - Wisconsin Society for Ornithology
