The Wilson Journal of Ornithology: A Legacy of Avian Research
For over a century, the study of birds has been meticulously documented and shared through dedicated scientific channels. One of the most enduring pillars of this field is The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, a quarterly peer-reviewed publication that serves as a vital record for avian science. Named after the pioneering American ornithologist Alexander Wilson, the journal provides a platform for researchers to share critical findings on bird species, behaviors, and ecology.
Originally established in 1889, the publication was known as The Wilson Bulletin until 2006, when it transitioned to its current name. It is published by the Wilson Ornithological Society based in the United States, maintaining a long-standing commitment to the advancement of ornithology—the scientific study of birds.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1889
- Publisher: Wilson Ornithological Society (United States)
- Frequency: Quarterly
- Former Name: The Wilson Bulletin (until 2006)
- Focus: Primarily studies conducted in the Western Hemisphere
- Impact Factor: 0.574 (as of 2019)
Scope and Content
The journal is designed to accommodate a variety of scientific contributions, ensuring that both comprehensive research and brief, timely observations are preserved. The content typically falls into three primary categories:
- Ornithological Studies: In-depth scientific papers detailing avian research.
- Short Communications: Brief reports on specific bird observations.
- Book Reviews: Critical evaluations of new literature within the field of ornithology.
While the journal is open to relevant research, the majority of the work published focuses on avian species and studies conducted within the Western Hemisphere.
Indexing and Academic Reach
To ensure that research is discoverable by the global scientific community, The Wilson Journal of Ornithology is abstracted and indexed in several prestigious databases. Indexing refers to the process of including a journal in a searchable database, which increases the visibility and citation potential of the published work.
The journal is indexed in the following repositories:
- Science Citation Index Expanded
- Scopus
- Academic Search Ultimate
- BIOSIS
- GEOBASE
- CAB Abstracts
Journal Specifications Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| ISO 4 Abbreviation | Wilson J. Ornithol. |
| ISSN (Print) | 1559-4491 |
| ISSN (Web) | 1938-5447 |
| Publication Cycle | Quarterly |
| Primary Region | Western Hemisphere |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of the journal's name?
The journal was founded in 1889 and was originally titled The Wilson Bulletin. It operated under this name until 2006, when it was renamed The Wilson Journal of Ornithology.
Who is the journal named after?
Both the journal and the Wilson Ornithological Society are named in honor of Alexander Wilson, a prominent American ornithologist.
What type of content is published in the journal?
The publication features peer-reviewed ornithological studies, short communications regarding bird observations, and reviews of books related to the field.
Where can historical archives of the journal be found?
Archives are available through various platforms: SORA provides free PDF/DejaVu full texts for volumes 1-111 (1889–1999), while BioOne hosts volumes from 2000 onwards, offering free HTML abstracts with subscription-based full texts.
What is the journal's geographical focus?
While it is a scientific journal of record, most of the research disseminated through its pages is conducted in the Western Hemisphere.