May 1, 2025

PHILADELPHIA, May 1, 2025— The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University (the Academy) will once again celebrate Black Birders Week (May 25-31, 2025) with a handful of special events designed to bring the birding community together as well as create new enthusiasts for the avian world, including a Town Square lecture and special activities at the Academy’s monthly Dinos After Dark, capping it all off with the 4th Annual Black Excellence in Birding ball.

As part of this national effort created by a group of STEM professionals and students known as the BlackAFinSTEM Collective, Black Birders Week began in 2020 as a weeklong series of events highlighting Black nature enthusiasts and increasing the visibility of Black birders, who face unique challenges and dangers when engaging in outdoor activities.

“Black Birders Week is about making birding accessible and welcoming for all and helping everyone find their community in the natural world,” said Sean Stallworth, Community Engagement Liaison for the Academy’s Community Learning Division. “Our partners in hosting the Black Excellence in Birding gala, the In Color Birding Club and the Black Excellence Society, have been on the forefront of making sure those communities have support and resources.”

Over the last week in May, the Academy will hold three events to connect audiences of all backgrounds with birding and the resources to get started or go further in exploring birding. In partnership with the Delaware Valley Ornithological Club (DVOC), the Academy will host its Town Square lecture series on May 29 featuring Dexter Patterson — also known as the Wisco Birder — for a heartfelt and inspiring discussion called “Birding is for Everyone.” The following night on May 30, Dinos After Dark—the Academy’s monthly pay-what-you-wish event after hours—will include special demonstrations and guests, including the Free Library of Philadelphia promoting its birding backpacks available to borrow at a number of libraries throughout the city.

The week closes in style with the annual Black Excellence in Birding event. This year, the black-tie-meets-sneaker-ball event will also be a masquerade ball where guests can create their masks on site with sustainable materials while connecting with local designers and admiring the Academy’s The Ecology of Fashion exhibit. The ball will feature a festive atmosphere with food and drinks in Dinosaur Hall, a rare peek behind the scenes at the Academy’s world-renowned Ornithology Collection, and a chance to hear from scientists and conservationists about how to appreciate and protect the birds that populate and migrate through our city.

"Black Excellence in Birding is not to be missed, whether you are new to the world of birding, or a longtime member of one of our many partner birding clubs, or even if you just love a good party! All are welcome to celebrate, dance and appreciate our feathered friends,” said Mariah Romaninsky, Director of Education, Learning and Development for the Academy.

The 2025 Black Birders Week itinerary at the Academy will include:

Thursday, May 29, 6 p.m.

Academy Town Square: Birding is for Everyone

Join the Delaware Valley Ornithological Club (DVOC) and the Academy of Natural Sciences in welcoming Dexter Patterson — also known as the Wisco Birder — for a heartfelt and inspiring session on the power of birdwatching to connect, heal and uplift. With his signature joy and dynamic storytelling, Dexter shares how discovering birds led him on a journey of healing, purpose and community building.

Friday, May 30

Dinos After Dark: The Joy of Birding

Enjoy pay-what-you-wish admission (recommended donation amount is $10), a festive, family-friendly atmosphere and the Dino Drafts Beer Garden in Dinosaur Hall. In addition to seeing the museum, join us for a special night celebrating Black Birders Week at the Academy. Plus purchase drinks (21+) and experience food offerings from our partners!

Saturday, May 31

Black Excellence in Birding Masquerade Ball

Join the Academy of Natural Sciences for the 2025 Black Excellence in Birding Masquerade Ball, the culminating event of Black Birders Week 2025! This black-tie-meets-sneaker-ball celebration is where conservation greets culture, and style takes wing. Registration begins for Academy Friends and Family May 1, and is open to the public May 2.

Contact:

Kaitlyn Foti Kalosy
kfk38@drexel.edu
215-299-1777

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About the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
Founded in 1812, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is a leading natural history museum and scientific research organization dedicated to understanding the natural world and inspiring everyone to care for it. The Academy is a constant source of innovation, education and engagement with environmental justice. It is home to more than 19 million scientific specimens in its world-class collections. Learn more at ansp.org and follow the Academy on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.