Audubon conducted the first known bird-banding experiment in North America, tying strings around the legs of Eastern Phoebes; he learned that the birds returned to the very same nesting sites each year.
Essential Facts
Was born in Saint Dominique (now Haiti) and raised in Nantes, France
Took an interest in nature, drawing, and music at an early age
Documented all types of birds and detailed illustrations; identified 25 new species
Published The Birds of North America, a book with detailed illustrations of 435 birds
Was the country's dominant wildlife artist during the 19th century
