The American Ornithologists' Union (AOU) is an ornithological organization in the USA. Unlike the National Audubon Society, its members are primarily professional ornithologists rather than amateur birders. It is a member of the Ornithological Council.

It was founded in September 1883 by Elliott Coues, Joel Asaph Allen, and William Brewster.

Its quarterly journal, The Auk, has been published since January, 1884. Other significant publications include the AOU Checklist of North American Birds, which is the standard reference work for the field, and a monograph series, Ornithological Monographs.

The South American Classification Committee (SACC), an official committee under the AOU, specifically deals with creating a standard classification, with English names, for the bird species of South America.

External links

• AOU website
• SACC website

References