Bird Protection Quebec

Founded in Montreal in 1917, Bird Protection Quebec (Protection des oiseaux du Québec) is the oldest organisation of birders in Quebec and amongst the oldest in North America. The society’s website can be found at www.pqspb.org [http://www.pqspb.org] and www.birdprotectionquebec.org [http://www.birdprotectionquebec.org] .

BPQ exists to conserve wild birds and the environment. With the support of members, they:

• campaign on behalf of birds and the environment

• own and manage nature reserves where wildlife can flourish

• support research into the problems facing birds and the environment

• are involved in recovery projects for many threatened species

• help everybody enjoy our birds and learn more about them and their environment

BPQ considers that birds and their habitats are a vital part of nature and their continued well-being can only be assured by people actively contributing to their welfare.

In fulfilling its mission, Bird Protection Quebec operates under these guiding principles and values:

• Wildlife, and birds in particular, have intrinsic value. There is value in appreciating the beauty and grace of birds, how they live and what they are able to do

• It is of the utmost importance to conserve bird populations and their habitats

• Knowledge of birds, particularly scientific knowledge, constitutes an important element in the understanding of our natural environment

• Laws should be enacted and enforced to protect birds and their habitats.

The general priorities of Bird Protection Quebec are to: • Protect bird habitats

• Increase birding knowledge, skills and enjoyment and encourage interest in birding

• Promote public awareness of birds

• Manage their nature reserves

• Contribute money and skills to ornithological study and research

• Increase membership and encourage involvement, especially of young people, in Bird Protection Quebec.

Members' activities

Regular Field Trips are organised throughout the year.

Monthly Meetings with knowledgeable speakers

“The Song Sparrow” - a newsletter sent to members to keep them in touch with activities.

e-newsletter sent to members monthly

Other regular activities are available to members such as the Christmas Bird Counts in which Society members take an active part in common with birders all over North and Central America, trips and outings, contests, courses, information and many other things.