White Bear Lake, MN – As autumn songbirds migrate across North America, the 2025 Songbird Art Contest is gaining momentum. Wildlife Forever is proud to announce that South Carolina has joined as the contest’s very first State Host, marking a milestone in expanding this nationwide celebration of art and conservation.

The Songbird Art Contest invites K–12 students to showcase their creativity while learning about the beauty and challenges facing North America’s songbirds. Each year, five species are featured, giving students the chance to research, reflect, and share conservation messages through original artwork and writing.

By stepping in as the first State Host, the South Carolina Wildlife Federation is creating a unique opportunity for educators, families, and communities across the state to participate in a more localized experience. For the first time, the Songbird Art Contest includes a state-level bird list featuring both national and South Carolina species, helping students connect even more deeply with the birds and ecosystems they encounter close to home. South Carolina’s featured species are:

• Black-and-white Warbler
• Carolina Wren (SC Local)
• Painted Bunting (SC Local)
• Purple Finch
• White-breasted Nuthatch

Since 1970, North America has lost nearly 3 billion birds, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and action. The Songbird Art Contest was created not only to inspire young artists but also to empower the next generation of conservation leaders.

“As the South Carolina State Host for the Songbird Art Contest, South Carolina Wildlife Federation is excited to see how students will bring our state’s birds to life through art,” said Sara Green, Executive Director of South Caroline Wildlife Federation. “The contest gives students a way to express their creativity while fostering a lasting connection to the wildlife and natural places that make South Carolina so special.”

Students wishing to participate must select one bird from the South Carolina list, research its habitat and conservation needs, and create an original, hand-drawn artwork. Students in grades 4 and up are also required to submit a short creative writing piece to accompany their art. The deadline for entries is November 30, 2025.

For complete contest rules and to enter, visit: www.theartofconservation.org/songbird-art-contest.
For questions, contact: Veronica Mangio at info@wildlifeforever.org.