Inspired by John James Audubon
Audubon was an Ornithologist, Naturalist and painter, notable for his extensive studies documenting all types of American birds and for his detailed illustrations that depicted the birds in their natural habitats. His major work, a color-plate book entitled “The Birds of America (1827–1839)”, is considered one of the finest ornithological works ever completed.
Audubon was born in Les Cayes in the French colony of Saint-Domingue (Haiti) on his father's sugarcane plantation. He was the son of Lieutenant Jean Audubon, a French naval officer Jeanne Rabine a maid.They named him Jean Rabin. His mother died when he was a few months old and they returned to France. The children were raised in Couëron, near Nantes, France, by Audubon and his French wife, Anne Moynet Audubon. When Audubon was 18, he boarded ship to immigrate to the United States,and officially changed his name to John James Audubon.
Audubon’s story is one of triumph over adversity, and he was a person of legendary strength and endurance, as well as a keen observer of birds and nature. He had a deep appreciation and concern for conservation and was an early environmentalist. In his later writings he sounded the alarm about destruction of birds and habitats.
From his earliest days, Audubon had an affinity for birds and their natural habitats.
"I felt an intimacy with them...bordering on frenzy that must accompany my steps through life."
The Audubon Society has exhibits,classes and nature trails to explore and learn more about native birds and wildlife.