SFBBOs FAQs
Who is SFBBO?
We are a small non-profit organization, founded in 1981 in Milpitas, CA, with the mission to promote sustainability in the Bay Area and beyond by engaging communities with avian science, habitat conservation, and education.
What does SFBBO do?
We conduct avian research, habitat restoration, and environmental education in the Bay Area community and beyond.
Is SFBBO a 501c3 organization?
Yes, we are a 501c3 organization! See a copy of our IRS 510c3 determination letter and past annual reports here: Our Accountability Reports.
How do I contact SFBBO?
You can call us at (408)-946-6548 or email us at outreach@sfbbo.org
Are there volunteer opportunities at SFBBO?
Yes! Volunteers help our scientists collect data, restore habitats, help our outreach team raise money, educate the community about birds and science, and share our work through communications and events. We have volunteer opportunities for all skill levels and experiences. And volunteers will receive training and orientations. We have volunteer opportunities for individuals, groups, youth, and families. We also offer one-time, seasonal, and ongoing volunteer opportunities both in-person and virtually. The first step is to fill out our volunteer application. A description of our current volunteer opportunities, as well as the volunteer application can be found here.
How can I support SFBBO’s mission?
You can make a donation, become a member, donate an item from our wishlist, write about us for your publication, use our research and data, invite us to speak to your community, become a volunteer, or follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube.
How do I donate to SFBBO?
You can send a check to the office address: San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory, 524 Valley Way, Milpitas CA 95035 or make an online donation.
What does my donation go towards?
Donations support research on waterbirds and landbirds, tidal marsh restoration, and education for youth and families.
How can I partner with SFBBO?
There are many ways to partner with SFBBO. Invite us to provide a science talk or family science event for your community, collaborate with us on a science research project or use our data in your project, host a joint outreach event with us, bring your volunteers to an SFBBO habitat restoration workday, or share about each other’s work in our communications. If you are interested in partnering with us, please Email Us About Partnering.
Do you have work or internship opportunities available?
Please refer to our employment page for available Employment Opportunities.
I have a question about an individual bird or bird species, who can I ask?
We’d be happy to answer your questions or point you in the best direction. Email us your questions.
How do I become an SFBBO member?
Please refer to our membership page for the benefits and more information about membership. Become a Member
Who do I contact if I have a question about laws that protect birds?
Please refer to the following link(s):
https://treecareforbirds.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/BMP-Tree-Care-for-Birds-Other-Wildlife-2.26.18-2.pdf
Local birding/bird advocacy organizations
How does SFBBO’s research help birds?
We share our research with partners and resource managers who use it to make informed decisions that impact birds. Please visit our webpage Science Research to learn more.
Where can I learn about upcoming SFBBO events?
Check out our Upcoming Events page!
What can I do if I find an injured bird?
SFBBO does not do wildlife rescue or rehabilitation, but please contact a wildlife rehabilitation center. Here are some in the Bay Area:
- International Bird Rescue (Fairfield)
- Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley (San Jose)
- Ohlone Humane Society Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (Newark)
- Yggdrasil Urban Wildlife Rescue (Oakland)
- Lindsay Wildlife Center (Walnut Creek)
- Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA (Burlingame)
Photo credits: Allen’s Hummingbird – Peter Shen; Nuttall’s Woodpecker – Chuq Von Rospach; Wilson’s Warbler – Mark Rauzon