Iowa DNR to Host the Iowa Songbird Art Contest™

Wildlife Forever is thrilled to announce the Iowa Department of Natural Resources as the official State Host of the Iowa Songbird Art Contest. Youth across Iowa will now have new opportunities to learn about bird conservation through the national program that connects youth to science and creative arts.

“The Songbird Art Contest is more than an art competition — it’s a way for students to discover the beauty and importance of their local birds”, says Veronica Mangio, Marketing & Communications Manager at Wildlife Forever. “We’re excited to see how young artists express their creativity while expanding our national reach through state contests.”

“Art is a great way to get kids connected with birds, and we hope this contest inspires them to learn something new about the amazing variety of birds in Iowa,” says Anna Buckardt Thomas, MS, CPM, Avian Ecologist of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Through the Art of Conservation® Songbird Art Contest, K–12 students are invited to celebrate North America’s songbirds by creating original artwork and written reflections. Each year, the contest features five highlighted species, encouraging students to explore the beauty, behavior, and conservation needs of these remarkable birds.

By joining as a State Host, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is helping to create a deeper connection between Iowa’s youth and the birds they see every day. For the first time, the Iowa Songbird Art Contest will include a state-specific bird list, featuring both local and national species. This localized approach allows students to learn about the birds that share their skies, backyards, and forests—fostering a stronger sense of place and environmental stewardship.

2025 Iowa Eligible Species (includes local & national species):

• American Goldfinch (Iowa State Bird)

• Black-and-white Warbler

• Carolina Wren

• Cerulean Warbler

• Henslow’s Sparrow

• Orchard Oriole

• Painted Bunting

• Purple Finch

• Red-headed Woodpecker

• White-breasted Nuthatch

Since 1970, North America has lost nearly 3 billion birds, a sobering reminder of the need for awareness and action. The Songbird Art Contest was created to inspire creativity while empowering the next generation of conservation leaders through art and education.

Students wishing to participate must select one bird from the Iowa list, research its habitat and conservation needs, and create an original hand-drawn artwork. Students in grades 4 and above 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.