Birmingham Resident Champions Alabama’s Biodiversity Through Education and Conservation Efforts

Birmingham Resident Champions Alabama’s Biodiversity

Birmingham, Alabama — Scot Duncan, Ph.D., is igniting a passion for Alabama’s rich biodiversity through his work as the executive director of Alabama Audubon. With roots in Florida’s Gulf Coast, Duncan’s love of birds and nature has been a lifelong journey, spanning several continents and ecosystems, including the majestic landscapes of Africa, Latin America, and Antarctica.

Duncan and his wife, Ginger, relocated to the Birmingham area in 2002, where she began her medical residency at UAB, and Duncan took on a role as a professor at Birmingham-Southern College. His admiration for Alabama’s unique landscapes prompted him to write the widely acclaimed book, Southern Wonder: Alabama’s Surprising Biodiversity, a comprehensive look into the state’s abundant wildlife. “I’ve even met people who have said that they’ve moved to Alabama in part because of that book,” Duncan shares, reflecting on how his love for Alabama has resonated with others. “It’s been really validating, gratifying and humbling all at once.”

In his leadership role at Alabama Audubon, Duncan is dedicated to ensuring that birding becomes more inclusive and accessible. The organization spearheads various initiatives aimed at enhancing bird conservation and education. Among these is the Black Belt Birding Festival, which celebrates the state’s vibrant avian life, and Project Safe Flight, designed to minimize bird collisions with buildings.

Diverse Landscapes and Rich Biodiversity

During an interview, Duncan expressed his appreciation for the diverse geography of Alabama, stating, “Because this is where the Appalachians start, and we have mountains, major river valleys, plains and coasts.” He emphasized that within just a half-day drive, one can experience vastly different landscapes, ecosystems, and cultures.

This diversity is mirrored in Alabama’s impressive ranking for biodiversity. “We punch far above our weight for biodiversity and natural beauty,” Duncan remarked. With more species than any state east of the Mississippi River, Alabama ranks fourth in terms of species diversity nationally. It boasts the title of continental hotspot for freshwater fishes and frogs while being the global leader for freshwater mussels, snails, crayfishes, and turtles. Furthermore, a staggering 450 species of birds have been documented in the state.

Natural Beauty: A Personal Perspective

When asked about his favorite spots in Alabama, Duncan cited the Black Belt region as a standout. This area is home to Alabama’s largest tallgrass prairies and harbors bird species that are typically found in the Midwest. He also highlighted Dauphin Island and Fort Morgan, where one can witness flocks of vibrantly colored birds arriving from tropical regions in spring and migrating south in the fall.

However, the Paint Rock River Valley in northeast Alabama truly captures Duncan’s heart. Characterized by a labyrinth of mountains rising out of the Tennessee River floodplain, this region is renowned for its lush forests rich in tree species and its unique geological features. “There’s a higher density of caves here than in most of the world,” Duncan noted. The Paint Rock River itself is home to numerous irreplaceable species of fish, mussels, and snails, making it a hotspot for biodiversity enthusiasts.

Recommendations and Community Connections

In addition to his work in biodiversity, Duncan shares his favorite local dining spot: Rojo, a casual restaurant in Birmingham where he enjoys vegetarian and pescatarian offerings. The establishment is known for its commitment to local plants and community advocacy through its co-owner, Laney DeJonge.

As Alabama continues to grow as a destination for wildlife enthusiasts, Duncan’s commitment to education, conservation, and community engagement paves the way for future generations to appreciate and protect the state’s natural treasures.

With leaders like Scot Duncan at the helm of Alabama Audubon, the future of birds and biodiversity in the state looks promising, reminding us all of the beauty that flourishes in our own backyards.