Presque Isle Audubon Society

From the minute ruby-throated hummingbird to the soaring red-shouldered hawk, birds are essential to our ecosystems. They are also increasingly in need of our protection. This Erie Gives Day, make a difference by supporting birds and their habitats through the Presque Isle Audubon Society (PIAS). The mission of PIAS is to connect people with birds, other wildlife and their habitats; through education, conservation, and advocacy.

Erie is a bird's (and birders’!) paradise. Presque Isle, with its protected and ecologically sensitive habitat, serves as an extremely important stop for migrating and nesting birds. It is also the home of the annual Festival of Birds, our weekend-long event that brings 150 people immersed in the wonders of spring migration. PIAS' programs are designed to connect people to not only birds, but nature as a whole. For example, our Nurture the Nature Lover program reached 400 students last school year, bringing environmental education to classrooms to inspire the next generation of conservationists. Our other programs include:

Scholarships to two educators in the Erie area to attend a week of nature education training at Hog Island, Maine, where they learn to inspire a love for nature in students.

Free and open to the public, guided bird hikes throughout the year.

Stewardship of three nature sanctuaries.

Conducting the yearly PA Christmas bird count.

We consider everyone that has stopped to appreciate the familiar song of a robin, the beautiful coloring of a cardinal, or the quiet grace of a heron to be a birder. Join us on Erie Gives Day in our efforts to save birds and their habitat.

(Photo: Common Merganser and chicks, Kazuto Shibata/ Audubon Photography Awards)