Wild Bird Society of Japan, BirdLife national partner, offers support for World Albatross Day

The mission of the Wild Bird Society of Japan (WBSJ), a BirdLife national partner, is given as the conservation of birds and biodiversity, and education about protection of birds, nature and biodiversity.  Founded in 1934, the society has a membership of nearly 35 000, with a staff of 75.  Key activities include protection of threatened species and their habitats, running bird sanctuaries and nature reserves, identifying Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) and spreading the importance of ecosystem and biodiversity through weekly basis birdwatching events held by 89 chapters (regional groups of members) throughout the country.

ACAP Latest News reached out earlier this year to the WBSJ.  In response, Yutaka Yamamoto of the Society’s Conservation Division replied to say: “We will support a World Albatross Day, to be held on 19 June each year”.

A Vulnerable Short-tailed Albatross Phoebastria albatrus on Torishima, photograph by Hiroshi Hasegawa

With thanks to Yutaka Yamamoto, Conservation Division, Wild Bird Society of Japan

John Cooper, ACAP Information Officer, 15 June 2020