08/27/2026
What do Hudsonian Whimbrels and endurance athletes have in common? The incredible ability to go the distance and bring people together.
Timm Döbert and Leanna Carriere have begun their 30,000 km bike ride from Alaska, USA, to Patagonia. They're racing against 3 GPS tagged Hudsonian Whimbrels, and hope to meet the birds on their non-breeding grounds before the Whimbrels turn around and fly back to Alaska. They have 9 months to cycle across 15 countries. Along the way they'll be connecting with communities, leaders and partners involved in conservation projects throughout Latin America - part of the Conserva Aves Initiative, which is connecting bird conservation efforts undertaken by more than 100 organizations (including Birds Canada) to protect migratory bird habitats. Yes, it's wildly ambitious and we couldn't be more excited about it!
Long-distance migrants are one of the most threatened groups of birds in Canada. The Hudsonian Whimbrel has lost 78% of its Canadian population since the 1970s. By cycling the migratory route of the Whimbrel, Timm and Leanna are bringing awareness to the challenges birds face during migration, the incredible toll it takes on a body (both bird and human!) and highlighting the vast community of people striving to help birds. This is just the start of their story. We'll be sharing updates as their ride unfolds.
You can see live updates and follow and support their ride at www.wingsofsurvival.com and Wings of Survival
Conserva Aves is led by American Bird Conservancy, National Audubon Society, BirdLife International, Birds Canada, and RedLAC with support from Bezos Earth Fund and Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada.
