West Marin Naturally: The PRBO Bird-a-thon

This year marks the 30th anniversary of PRBO Conservation Science’s Bird-a-Thon, making it the longest running event of its kind in the United States. The annual, volunteer-driven happening raises essential funds for wildlife.

To the uninitiated, a bird-a-thon seems like a good excuse for bird lovers to do something they love to do anyway, and raise money that will benefit their passion. The birder simply goes to their favorite wildlife locale and establishes a comfortable lounge in a snug and secluded area under a shaded oak tree. Between raising his binoculars, the relaxed sportsman will partake of a well-stocked picnic basket, which includes the finest West Marin edibles; bakery goodies, wine, cheese and Brickmaiden Bread. The premium birdseed he scattered near his first-class encampment attracts every bird in the county. At the PRBO Bird-a-thon (BAT) annual awards dinner, he will boast about a rare warbler and swap stories with other ‘thoners’.

Perhaps that is not your fabricated scenario. My naïve imagination invented a journey that challenged the stamina of a birder on a fund-raising mission. Except for the boastful camaraderie, the undertaking is coordinated with the organization and complexity of a NASA launch. I learned this by observing David Wimpfheimer plot his annual quest to raise funds for PRBO.

David plans the BAT a year in advance by clearing several days from work, since the weather and timing for insect-eating birds are both contributing factors for success. Once he chooses a geographical area, he maps out the official parameters, then targets key birding habitat. Each habitat has a time of day that is most beneficial to scour, especially tidal. He often scouts the route ahead of time and contacts other birders who frequent the targeted habitat. David creates a detailed itinerary that matches habitat with species that leaves no time for traffic, meals or a nap. When the day of the count arrives, everything he can control is in position. The spotting scope is at the perfect height, binoculars at the ready. A car full of supplies will include several changes of clothes, shoes, walkie-talkies and bags of healthy junk food and various caffeinated products.

My first few bird-a-thons I was mainly a scout and helpful companion. I watched in awe as David’s determination, ingenuity and skills complemented his research. Over the years, we have evolved into perfectly tuned ‘thoning’ partners, with different but harmonious skills. Our eyes and ears are on full alert for 24 hours while our adrenaline revs us through our exhaustion. Truthfully, I find our day together uniquely romantic. We have some wonderful, comical and unique memories.

This October will be David’s 27th and my 7th PRBO fundraiser. We kindly ask you to sponsor our worthwhile adventure.

PRBO has a financial goal of $130,000 this year. Whether you sponsor us, or another ‘thoner, all money collected goes to PRBO Conservation Science.

For more information, please go to our bird-a-thon web page from: www.calnaturalist.com, call us at 663-1363. PRBO is www.prbo.org.