Christian Cooper to read from 'Better Living Through Birding' at Van Cortlandt friend-raiser

Christian Cooper, described on the program as a longtime birder and Van Cortlandt Park supporter, is scheduled to appear at the Alliance's friend-raiser and to read from his book.

"He has a book... called Better Living Through Birding, notes from from a black man in the natural world," Executive Director Stephanie Ehrlich said on Open. Ehrlich added that Cooper brings young people into the park to learn birding and will speak about that work at the Sept. 15 event.

Ehrlich referenced Cooper's widely reported Central Park encounter, saying he "took something that is ugly and unfortunate and turned it into something really positive," and framed his public profile as a way to expand engagement in park programs. The interview does not provide additional details of the past incident beyond that characterization.

The Alliance said Cooper will appear with author and actress Lily Taylor for a conversation about birding and their books.