Founded in 1922 as the New England Bird Banding Association, The Association of Field Ornithologists (AFO) is one of the world’s major societies of professional and avocational ornithologists dedicated to the scientific study and dissemination of information about birds in their natural habitats. AFO encourages the participation of avocational research, and emphasizes the conservation biology of birds. Members of AFO receive:
- Access to member-exclusive events and funding opportunities.
- Discounted registration for our vibrant annual meetings.
- Assistance with your animal care & field research permits through our continued participation in the Ornithological Council

Recent Posts:
AFO meetings | AFO WOS 2026 joint meeting recap
Journal of Field Ornithology | Editor’s Pick (Volume 97, Issue 2)
Ornithological Council bimonthly news brief: March-April 2026


Latest Book Review
The book presents a relatively compelling case for Cassia being elevated to full species and discusses in depth co-evolution between Cassia Crossbills and lodgepole pines in the red squirrel-free mountains of Cassia County, Idaho where the bird gets its name. And rather than being purely an academic dry data-based book, it is written in an easy-readable style, blending interesting natural history anecdotes with insights into evolutionary biology. Crossbills & Conifers offers birders far more than just a life history species account of a bird, it uses crossbills as a great example through which to explore the major themes of ecology, diversification, and evolution.
Matt Young and Tim Spahr
Finch Research Network
Evan Jackson | AFO Book Reviews Editor
