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They Call Me Birdman

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As he rounds the corner of West 208th Street and Ninth Avenue with two green fishing nets over his shoulder, James Cataldi says: "You go first. They'll flock toward me if they see me." Just a year and a half ago, this wedge of waterfront was a dumping ground and a "heroin shantytown." But today, James has single handedly removed hundreds of pounds of garbage and made it a remarkable refuge for hundreds of birds. "I was a Wall Street guy. I was heavily into math," Mr. Cataldi says. "But this is my calling."

Be The Change

Learn more about the Wild Bird Fund, that helps save wild birds in New York City.

Biodiversity refers to the vast variety of wild plants, animals, and microrganisms that live on our planet. Read about the importance of preserving wildlife.

Go bird watching. Or volunteer at a bird sanctuary near you.

Reflections (48)

Mary

I AM INSPIRED TO SEE ACTION LIKE THIS - IT IS IN MY VIEW, ELOQUENCE!
I COMMEND YOU JAMES CATALDI! WHAT A WONDERFUL CELEBRATION OF YOUR SELFHOOD!
JUST GETTING ON WITH THE JOB AND STANDING SURE IN YOUR COMMITTED PATH! I SALUTE
YOU, THANK YOU AND RESPECT YOU FOR YOUR DILIGENCE, PATIENCE AND KIND ACTS!
BLESSINGS ON YOUR PATH!

James Cataldi

Thank you all for your most kind and inspiring words. We need to protect our earth, and our wildlife along with our youth, it is the only earth we have, and we owe everything to the earth. . Peace. Birdman of NYC, inwood's North Cove. A.k.a. James "the Birdman" Cataldi

Lisa

I too, wondered why no on else pitched in....I would be there, and in fact Jim's given me incentive to pursue becoming a Wildlife Manager...what a gift!

rosemary

the question would be why this wonderful man was working alone...i would have been in there with him enjoying every moment...this kind of stewardship of the planet is what we all need-bless you a thousand times...

kamal

the simplicity and clarity and uncluttered vision of the man. very inspiring!

Andrew

Very good job Jim

Lyn

God bless you Jim.

Michele

This is a beautiful video about someone who is making a difference! What a heart. What passion. Thank you birdman.

Suzanne

What a hero you are...Your commitment to wildlife and their habitat is beautiful.

Jade Sherer

Jim, you are my hero. Tears slide down my cheeks to know that you are out there...thank you a million times over for your commitment and love for Earth and her Children. I am sending this on to inspire others....huge wild blessings coming your way!

Bruce

Jim, I appreciate your conviction and fortitude. You are a champion to the wildlife making its home there, and in your own personal way showing people the power of love.

Michelle

I love that this man was not stopped by the insurmountable garbage. I am inspired to continue
maintaning my city park at Jackson Square, regardless how many times we need to clean up remains
that other human beings that leave behind. I know one day this park is becoming a wonderful place
to relax, read and enjoy a meal with friends and neigbors and finally say goodbye to the drug addicts !

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They Call Me Birdman

Reflections (48)

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