William H. Phelps Sr.

William Henry Phelps Sr. was born on June 14, 1875, and became a prominent figure in the fields of ornithology and zoology. His passion for birds and their habitats led him to make significant contributions to the study of avian life, establishing himself as a respected ornithologist.

In addition to his scientific pursuits, Phelps was a successful businessman. His entrepreneurial spirit complemented his academic interests, allowing him to fund and support various ornithological endeavors throughout his life.

Phelps is perhaps best known as the founder of the William Phelps Ornithological Collection, located in Sabana Grande. This collection is recognized as the most important private ornithological collection in the world, showcasing his dedication to the preservation and study of bird species.

His legacy continued through his son, William H. Phelps Jr., who followed in his father's footsteps as an ornithologist and collaborated with him on various projects. Together, they contributed to the understanding of avian biology and conservation.