"Birds are an 'ecological litmus paper.' Because of their rapid metabolism and wide geographical range, they reflect changes in the environment quickly; they warn us of things out of balance, sending out signals whenever there is a deterioration in the ecosystem..." -- Roger Tory Peterson   Photo by John Walter Seeing a bird you haven't seen before is one of the great surprises and pleasures of life. Birds are a source of fascination for children around the world. No other animal represents a freedom of spirit and movement more elegantly than a gliding bird. Among naturalists and bird watchers throughout the world, taking inventory of our bird species is a calling of the highest order. There are hundreds of thousands of volunteers in this ongoing pursuit. As we approach the third millennium, the work must continue. There are no insignificant species of birds. For more information on bird watching, preservation of bird habitats and ornithology, visit www.audubon.org.   | Home | Cultural | Environmental | Musical | Ordinary | | Contact Us | About the Authors | © Copyright 2007 fiftythings