In Memory of
Roger Tory Peterson
1908 - 1996
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Birders are mourning the passing of Roger Tory Peterson who died at his home in Old Lyme, Connecticut on Sunday, July 28th. Peterson and his "A Field Guide to the Birds" played a major role in making bird watching a national/international pastime.
Peterson often recalled an event from his childhood that hooked him on birds. At age 11, he and a friend came upon a bundle of feathers in the woods that they assumed was a dead bird and so they started to examine it closely, petting the feathers. All of a sudden, the bird burst to life and flew away, startling both the boys. The bird was a Northern Flicker and for Peterson this event kindled a fascination with birds that lasted a lifetime.
Since its 1934 introduction, Peterson's "A Field Guide to the Birds" and its successors have served as the spark for others, opening the doors to the wondrous life of birds. His illustrations and text simplified identification and brought a deeper understanding of birds within the grasp of a wide audience of casual to serious bird watchers. With this introduction to wildlife, many have gone on to develop a deeper appreciation of nature and concern for the environment, while others have dedicated their lives to these causes. And they in turn have passed this love and fascination on to others.
Those of us with this love of birds and nature can't help but feel indebted to Roger Tory Peterson for this important facet of our lives. There are many times that we felt he was there with us as we observed and identified birds for the first time, helping us, guiding us. All these wonderful and cherished memories come to mind on hearing of his passing along with the accompanying feelings of sadness and loss. But having opened our eyes and minds, he will continue to be with us in our explorations and journeys.