PV/SB Audubon

The Palos Verdes/South Bay Audubon Society and the National Audubon Society, of which PV/SB Audubon is the local chapter, are dedicated to the understanding and preservation of our natural heritage. Within the framework of National Audubon Society policies, we seek and implement ways to preserve indigenous flora and fauna, specially that of our local area, and provide educational services to the region’s communities with respect to birds, wildlife, ecology and conservation.

When it comes to rare plants and animals, disappearing habitats and pressing environmental concerns, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, from tidepools to hilltop, is one of the most remarkable and vulnerable places in California. For most of its million-year existence, what is now the Palos Verdes Peninsula was once one of the Channel Islands. During that period, a unique flora and fauna evolved. Some of that uniqueness survives, despite extensive landform and habitat alterations, and despite the mainland connection, better known as the Los Angeles Basin.

The lowlands adjacent to the Palos Verdes Peninsula are important to wildlife, too. As wetlands continue to fall victim to “progress,” those that remain in the South Bay become ever more valuable. In addition, our coastal strand still supports some of California’s rarest birds and other creatures.

The Palos Verdes/South Bay chapter of the National Audubon Society has maintained an active presence in the local community since 1978 by providing a resource for the educational and recreational services of the area, promoting regional and national Audubon Society goals, supporting sound policy at all levels of government, and encouraging responsible future leadership through the Audubon Youth Environmental
Service (YES) Program.

Here’s a link to our parent chapter, the National Audubon Society: click here.

Here’s a link to the state-wide, California Audubon Society: click here.

2022 Update: Our decision to keep the name “Audubon”

The Palos Verdes/South Bay Audubon Society’s mission has always been steeped in the love for birds, wildlife, and the diverse ecosystems they inhabit. Our name, carrying the legacy of John James Audubon, reflects a long-standing tradition of exploration, education, and conservation. Mixed with this, is the record of his personal life two centuries ago, which has drawn criticism and cast doubt on the value of using the name
Audubon for the National Audubon Society and its affiliated chapters. As we continue into a future that holds promise for greater inclusivity and understanding, we have decided to retain “Audubon” in our name as a tribute to the enduring positive values, meanwhile embracing a necessary dialogue along with concomitant actions that foster a community both welcoming and affirming to all.

We acknowledge the complex historical narrative surrounding John James Audubon. It’s a narrative that, as with many historical figures, includes both remarkable contributions to ornithology and aspects that conflict with our present-day ethos of equality, respect, and inclusivity. The decision to retain our name follows a thorough and thoughtful discussion, recognizing that the name “Audubon” has grown to symbolize a collective effort to protect and appreciate avian life and natural habitats that transcends the life of one individual.

As we affirm the name “Audubon,” we are also committed to continue fostering our chapter’s culture that reflects the rich diversity within our community, especially as exemplified in the YES (Youth Environmental Service) program. Our promise is to continue engaging in meaningful dialogue, learning from one another, and by taking steps that ensure every member, regardless of background, feels valued, heard, and
empowered to contribute to our shared mission.

We are excited about the journey ahead—a journey of continuous growth, learning, and collaboration. Together, we will strive to deepen our understanding, broaden our horizons, and create a harmonious environment for both our human and avian communities. We invite you to join us in this endeavor, share your insights, and be a part of the vibrant, inclusive community we are continually striving to build. Your engagement and feedback are invaluable to us. Please feel free to share your thoughts and suggestions. We look forward to growing and evolving together, for the betterment of our shared natural world.

Post-COVID Update

We follow LA County Department of Health guidelines and safety measures regarding illnesses such as COVID-19. Please check this website for the current recommendations.