The Motivation
Wings of Survival is inspired by the mounting escalation of the global biodiversity and extinction crises. In less than 50 years, we humans have extirpated 70% of the planet’s wildlife populations, including billions of wild birds, with one in eight bird species now considered at risk of extinction. We are endangering ourselves.
Wings of Survival was conceptualized by Dr. Timm Döbert, evolved from his deep passion for and commitment to science, exploration and sport. His long-term vision is a trilogy of unmotorized expeditions, across the planet’s major flight paths, emulating the epic journeys of migratory birds, the world’s greatest ‘athletes’ and our barometer for planetary health.
The Concept
The Initiative
Wings of Survival is an impact initiative centered on the profound, life-sustaining bond between migratory birds and humanity. Through bold storytelling and visionary leadership, we aim to spark a global movement underpinned by a shift in how we look at birds: as beacons of hope for the future of all life on Earth.
At the heart of our mission lies an urgent call to action — to inspire and empower people, youth in particular, to become stewards and guardians of life.
By weaving together extreme sports, impact storytelling, scientific exploration, and the extraordinary journeys of migratory birds, we are creating a visceral, unforgettable race with nature — a powerful story that moves people to take action for our planet.