by Devin Griffiths, Marketing & Communications Specialist
On Saturday, May 8, The Wetlands Institute’s team of irrepressible birders, The Marshketeers, once again gave up sleep for birds, competing in the 24-hour challenge that is NJ Audubon’s World Series of Birding. After winning the Carbon Footprint Cup last year, The Marshketeers treaded lightly again, taking on the Carbon Footprint Cup for 2021 as well – heading out on foot, bike, and horseback to identify as many bird species as possible while raising funds for the Institute’s coastal bird conservation programs.
Faced by heavy rain in the early hours, the team nevertheless remained undaunted. They closed the day with 145 species – including this year’s bonus bird, the Blue Grosbeak – repeating their 2020 victory and bringing the Swarovski Carbon Footprint Cup home again. The real winners, though, were the birds: through generous donations and pledges, The Marshketeers raised more than $6,000, which goes directly to The Wetlands Institute’s coastal bird research and conservation programs and supports the lifesaving work we do on behalf of our imperiled beach-nesting birds.