Royal Society for the Protection of Birds

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Royal Society for the Protection of Birds

150px RSPB logo
Abbreviation	RSPB
Formation	1889
Type	Charity
Purpose	Conservation of birds and other wildlife
Headquarters	Sandy, Bedfordshire
Location	United Kingdom
Region served	United Kingdom
Membership	Over 1 million
Chief Executive	Beccy Speight
Website	rspb.org.uk

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is a charitable organization registered in the United Kingdom that works to promote the conservation and protection of birds and the wider environment. The RSPB was founded in 1889 and has grown to become one of the largest wildlife conservation organizations in Europe.

History

The RSPB was founded in 1889 by Emily Williamson at her home in Didsbury, Manchester. The organization was initially called the "Society for the Protection of Birds" and was formed to campaign against the use of bird feathers in women's fashion. In 1904, the society received its Royal Charter and became the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

Objectives

The primary objective of the RSPB is the conservation of birds and their habitats. The organization works through a combination of scientific research, advocacy, education, and land management. The RSPB manages over 200 nature reserves across the UK, covering a wide range of habitats including wetlands, woodlands, and coastal areas.

Activities

The RSPB engages in a variety of activities to fulfill its mission:

• **Conservation Projects**: The RSPB undertakes numerous conservation projects aimed at protecting endangered bird species and their habitats.
• **Advocacy**: The organization lobbies the government and other bodies to influence environmental policy and legislation.
• **Education**: The RSPB runs educational programs and campaigns to raise awareness about bird conservation and the importance of biodiversity.
• **Research**: The RSPB conducts scientific research to inform its conservation strategies and to monitor the status of bird populations.

Membership and Support

The RSPB has over 1 million members, making it one of the largest membership organizations in the UK. Members support the organization through membership fees, donations, and volunteering. The RSPB also receives funding from grants, legacies, and corporate partnerships.

Headquarters

The RSPB's headquarters are located in Sandy, Bedfordshire. The organization also has regional offices across the UK to coordinate its activities at a local level.

See also

• BirdLife International
• Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
• British Trust for Ornithology
• National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty
• Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust