This is a history of American ornithology, from the death of John James Audubon to World War II. The book shows how efforts to form a scientific community distinct from popular birders met with only partial success. The founding of the American Ornithologist's Union in 1883 and the subsequent expansion of formal educational and employment opportunities in ornithology marked important milestones in this campaign, Yet, by the middle of the 20th century, when ornithology had finally achieved ther status of a modern profession, its practitioners remained dependant on the services of birdwatchers and other amateur enthusiasts. Environmental issues are also discussed in the account as the author traces areas of both co-operation and conflict between ornithologists and wildlife conservationists.