What kind of bird are YOU?

A classic, hand-held bird call modeled after traditional field instruments used by naturalists and early outdoor clubs. Designed to help blend into or engage with the surrounding soundscape, it’s a straightforward tool for quiet observation. An official piece of daily gear within the Wandawega Bird Watching Association. We tracked down the family who invented the Audubon bird call back in the ‘50s and asked them to make custom ones for guests.

Ours arrive with a little camp “bird song” identifier chart, a blue bird feather, in a linen carrying pouch. (So you can tote it around when you take our Camp Counselor-led “nature walk”).

ABOUT:
Photo is from the New York Times magazine 1953, talking about his new invention.
“From his farm in Newington, Connecticut, Roger Eddy and his family made and sold the original Audubon Bird Call for over 50 years. his grandsons Martin and Sam Fox moved the company to their home state of Rhode Island. The Fox brothers have continued Roger Eddy's commitment to high quality and hand-made bird calls.”

HOW’S IT WORK?
The bird call’s sound is produced by rotating the wooden cylinder against the cast zinc plug. By varying the pressure between the two surfaces while twisting back and forth, a variety of bird sounds can be accurately imitated.

WHERE’D IT START?
Originally conceived by songbird hunters, the bird call attracts birds by creating the illusion that other birds are in the area.
Recognized by multiple generations of birders and outdoors people, the Audubon Bird Call has been made and tuned by hand in the USA in the same way for over 60 years.

About the Wandawega Bird Watching Collection:
Inspired by the decades of bird watching that have taken place across the woods, prairies, and shorelines of Camp Wandawega, this collection brings together a range of analog goods made for quiet observation. Designed to span the visual language of several eras, the offering includes field-ready apparel, everyday carry pieces, Association insignia, refurbished classic binoculars, and simple tools for recording what you see. Each item reflects the long-standing tradition of looking closely—an invitation to slow down, pay attention, and take part in the ongoing practice of watching the natural world at Wandawega. View the whole collection. 

DETAILS

➕ Each bird call and bird feeder is made in Rhode Island of USA components, and with reasonable care, will provide decades of service.

➕ The original Audubon™ Bird Call,  in classic red or natural birch finish, packed in standard gift box. 

➕ Sturdy cast zinc and solid birch construction. 

➕ Rosin capsule included to maintain the call’s distinctive chirp.