Much of what we know about birds is the result of scientific research conducted by smart, intrepid women. Unfortunately, ornithology was a male-dominated field for much of the 19th and early 20th centuries. On the heels of early pioneers like Graceanna Lewis, Katharine Clark and Margaret Morse Nice, a new generation of female ornithologists emerged in the middle 20th to early 21st centuries and transformed our understanding of bird behavior, systematics, and conservation. They also left a powerful legacy of educational justice for future generations.
The following photo collage is a tribute to some female ornithologists who have inspired me and the world, through their science and devotion to birds. Type their names into Google to learn more about their research.
**This is not even close to a comprehensive list of influential female ornithologists. Do you know of a pioneer ornithologist who should be included here? I will be adding more photos and names to the collage, and I would be happy to hear from you! matthewhalleyATgmail.com** [Thanks to everyone who has submitted suggestions, and to all the photographers; some of the photos are my own, but I admittedly copied from many internet sources to make the collage. If your photo was used and you would rather it not be, please get in touch.]
Matthew R. Halley 
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