The Foundation’s bird collection is the largest of our vertebrate collections. It consists of two categories of specimens, scientific study skins and taxidermy specimens. The majority of study skins were collected on the Refuge or within the region. This collection totals 2,316 birds representing 545 species from 21 orders. Interesting specimens include the scissor-tailed flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus), painted bunting (Passerina ciris), and green jay (Cyanocorax yncas). Approximately 300 study skins were added to the collection with the donation of the Roy W. Quillin egg collection. The second group of taxidermic specimens was acquired through a generous donation by Donald E. Bowman. This collection contains 405 specimens, 300 of which are currently housed at the Foundation. One hundred sixty-eight species of birds are represented in this group. The Bowman collection contains specimens of two extinct species, the passenger pigeon (Ectopistes migratorius) and heath hen (Tympanuchus cupido cupido).
welderwildlife.org 