Eli S. Bridge

Treasurer, International Ornithologists’ Union (IOU) 2018-2022

Birds do not recognize political boundaries. Although the same is not true for humans, we need an organization that can reach across the continents to foster international cooperation and collaboration. It is a very exciting time to be part of the International Ornithologists’ Union as we strive to foster a worldwide community of bird researchers and enthusiasts. I have a strong interest in ornithology as an international endeavor, partly because my current research focuses on animal tracking and bird migration, but also because conserving wildlife on this changing planet will require international coordination. Here is where the IOU can make a real difference, by proving a forum for ornithologists worldwide and a stage for presenting the results of our research efforts. I have attended several International Ornithological Congresses starting with the one in Hamburg in 2006, but I am a newcomer to the council of the IOU. I became treasurer in 2018 just after the IOC in Vancouver, and I am still climbing the learning curve in negotiating the finances of an international non-profit organization. It is a true honor to be part of this organization right now as we modernize mobilize to reach our full potential as a global scientific society.