Audubon Alaska celebrates Mr. Whitekeys, beloved entertainer, longtime Anchorage Audubon Society president, and devoted educator.

Alaska has lost an original. Mr. Whitekeys, or “Keys,” the beloved entertainer, writer, musician, naturalist, and longtime president of the Anchorage Audubon Society , died October 19, 2026. Known to generations for his humor and political satire, Keys also devoted himself to spreading the love for the birds that make Alaska extraordinary.

Birds were a passion, and he generously shared his enthusiasm and knowledge about the natural world. At Audubon Alaska, we were fortunate and thankful to work alongside Keys on projects that connected people with birds and the habitats they depend upon. He was a treasured partner in the recently updated Birds of Anchorage, Alaska Checklist and the Anchorage Birding Trail . His broad knowledge of Alaska’s birds and habitats, together with an enthusiasm for supporting others in their learning journey, helped bring life to these resources.…