DID YOU KNOW?
The three greatest causes of wild bird mortality in the US
DOMESTIC CATS
The single greatest cause of wild bird mortality in the United States are domestic, free-ranging cats.
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DOMESTIC, FREE ROAMING CATS KILL 1.3 to 4 BILLION WILD BIRDS ANNUALLY
COLLISIONS
Up to 1 billion birds are killed annually in the United States due to anthropogenic sources including collisions with
human-made structures such as vehicles, buildings, windows, power lines, communication towers, and wind turbines.
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Research shows
that 54-76% of window collisions are FATAL to birds.
HABITAT LOSS
Millions of acres of bird habitat are lost or degraded every year due to development, agriculture, and forestry practices.
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These rapidly accelerating impacts can be mitigated only through habitat restoration and protection.
You Can Help!
Everyone can help protect migratory birds. Whether it is taking actions around your home or workplace, designing bird-friendly projects, or just taking actions that reduce resource consumption, every action is one step towards protecting migratory birds for future generations. A few simple actions that can be taken include:
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Participate in citizen science bird monitoring programs (e.g., eBird, Breeding Bird Survey, Christmas Bird Counts, Urban Bird Treaties)
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Reduce energy and water use
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Recycle and use recycled products
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Assess home and office for risk of bird/glass collisions and implement best practices
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Keep cats indoors
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Reduce use of chemicals in environment
Migratory birds are among nature's most magnificent resources. Their conservation is a critical and challenging endeavor for the Migratory Bird Program and all who value nature. If you need immediate assistance, contact the Migratory Bird Program at migratorybirds@fws.gov
How to help an injured wild songbird
There are a great many situations in which you may find an injured bird. Here’s how to catch a bird in different situations:
Sparrows: Native and non-native. Do you know the difference? Tips on managing invasive species.
Native Sparrows are sometimes overlooked. Maybe because they’re so common, but maybe it’s because they can be very difficult to tell apart.
