top of page
Domestic, free-roaming
cats are the single greatest anthropogenic cause of wild bird mortality in the United States.
-
DOMESTIC, FREE ROAMING CATS KILL 1.3 to 4 BILLION WILD BIRDS ANNUALLY
For over a century, ornithologists have been sounding the alarm about cats and their impacts in the environment. Whether owned, stray, or feral, roaming domestic cats have the capacity — indeed the propensity — to hunt and kill the wild creatures that we value.
cats are the single greatest anthropogenic cause of wild bird mortality in the United States.
-
DOMESTIC, FREE ROAMING CATS KILL 1.3 to 4 BILLION WILD BIRDS ANNUALLY
For over a century, ornithologists have been sounding the alarm about cats and their impacts in the environment. Whether owned, stray, or feral, roaming domestic cats have the capacity — indeed the propensity — to hunt and kill the wild creatures that we value.
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, and power lines,
Research shows
that 54-76% of window collisions are fatal to birds. Current research indicates that more than 50% of birds that are able to fly off immediately after a window collision eventually die from their injuries.
human-made structures such as vehicles, buildings, windows, and power lines,
Research shows
that 54-76% of window collisions are fatal to birds. Current research indicates that more than 50% of birds that are able to fly off immediately after a window collision eventually die from their injuries.
Millions of acres of bird habitat are lost or degraded every year due to development, agriculture, and forestry practices.
These rapidly accelerating impacts can be mitigated only through habitat restoration and protection.
These rapidly accelerating impacts can be mitigated only through habitat restoration and protection.
The three greatest anthropogenic causes of wild bird mortality in the United States...
1/7
1/5
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:
-
Participate in citizen science bird monitoring programs (e.g., eBird, Breeding Bird Survey, Christmas Bird Counts, Urban Bird Treaties)
-
Reduce energy and water use
-
Recycle and use recycled products
-
Assess home and office for risk of bird/glass collisions and implement best practices
-
Keep cats indoors
-
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.
Educational Articles
Educational Articles
For The Birds of Acadiana 2026 Mid-year Impact Report*
At the halfway point of the year, the numbers tell a clear story: more birds are coming through the doors, more species are being represented, and the work of avian wildlife rehabilitation is reaching greater heights.
Carolina Wrens in Louisiana: Trust Their Parenting, Protect Their Nests
A tiny nest in a porch wreath can cause a very big worry. One day the adult wrens are slipping in and out with insects. The next day, the nest seems quiet. No parent is sitting there. The babies are alone. It is easy to think, “I think the parents have abandoned the nest. ”With Carolina Wrens, that is rarely true.
Why Fewer Qualified Bird Rehabilitators Protect More Birds
For The Birds of Acadiana’s position reflects a hard truth in wildlife care: quality over quantity protects more birds in the long run. A smaller group of highly qualified avian rehabilitators can produce better outcomes than a much larger group without the skill, oversight, or facilities to do the work safely.
Mississippi Kites in Louisiana: Small Hawk, Big Sky, and a Few Surprising Snacks
Mississippi kites bring a special kind of summer energy to Louisiana. They are elegant but scrappy, small but bold, and graceful enough to make eating a bug in midair look like ballet with snacks.
Their story connects river country, long migration routes, leafy neighborhoods, and warm skies full of insects. They nest above busy human lives, whistle from treetops, defend their young with surprising nerve, and vanish south when the season turns.
Protecting the Wetlands Our Birds Call Home: Why Habitat Protection Matters to For The Birds of Acadiana
Birds in Louisiana depend heavily on the region’s unique wetlands for survival. These habitats provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds essential to their life cycles. Yet, ongoing wetland loss threatens these vital ecosystems and the bird populations they support. Protecting these habitats is not just about preserving nature’s beauty—it is about maintaining the ecological balance that sustains both wildlife and human communities.
Louisiana’s Expanding Waterfowl: Getting to know the Black-Bellied Whistling Duck
Black-bellied whistling ducks stand out among waterfowl in Louisiana with their striking appearance and unique behaviors. Understanding their history, habitats, breeding habits, and the legal protections they enjoy helps us appreciate these gregarious birds. This post dives into the life of black-bellied whistling ducks in Louisiana and offers practical advice on how to support their well-being and what to do if you find an injured or orphaned duck.
Exploring the Fascinating World of Wood Ducks in Louisiana and Their Conservation Needs
Wood ducks are among the most striking and colorful waterfowl found in North America. In Louisiana, these birds add a splash of vibrant color to the wetlands and forests, captivating bird watchers and nature lovers alike. This post explores the life of wood ducks in Louisiana, highlights the conservation efforts that help protect this remarkable species and what to do if you find an injured or orphaned wood duck.
Exploring the Habitat and Nesting Habits of Chimney Swifts and Their Role in Insect Control
Chimney Swifts are fascinating birds that play a vital role in controlling insect populations. Their unique lifestyle and nesting habits make them an interesting subject for bird enthusiasts and conservationists alike. This post explores where chimney swifts live, what they eat, how and where they build their nests, their behavior, and the conservation challenges they face. Understanding these aspects can help us appreciate these birds and support efforts to protect them.
The Impact of Inappropriate Human Intervention on Healthy Fledgling Blue Jays and Northern Mockingbirds
Every spring and summer, many people in Acadiana encounter young birds on the ground, often Northern Mockingbirds or Blue Jays, and feel compelled to help. The instinct to "rescue" healthy fledgling Blue Jays and Mockingbirds from perceived threats like free-roaming cats, hawks, or snakes is strong. Yet, this well-meaning intervention can cause serious harm to healthy fledglings, both physically and mentally.
Our Why: The Goal of Migratory Bird Rehabilitation
Migratory birds play a crucial role in maintaining the health of ecosystems across the globe. At For The Birds of Acadiana, the mission to protect, rehabilitate, and release these birds back into the wild supports not only the birds themselves but also the broader environment and communities that depend on a balanced natural world.
The Untold Journey of a Fledgling Blue Jay Kidnapped by Humans and the Impact on Growth and Spirit
I never expected my first flight to be interrupted by hands that were not my parents’. I am a fledgling Blue Jay, just learning to explore the world beyond my nest. But instead of soaring freely, I found myself taken away by a human who thought they were helping me. This is my story—a story of how human intervention, even when well-meaning, can disrupt the natural growth and spirit of young birds like me.
Lights Out Louisiana: How Turning Off Lights Helps Migrating Birds
Every spring and fall, over one million birds migrate through Louisiana under the cover of night. This incredible natural event is a vital part of many bird species' life cycles. Yet, it also presents a serious challenge: artificial light pollution. Bright city lights and illuminated buildings can confuse and endanger these night-flying travelers.
The Hidden Dangers of Overpopulation: Why Domestic Ducks Can Cause Issues in Acadiana Ponds
Many residents in Acadiana enjoy the idea of having ducks in their local ponds. They often purchase domestic ducks from farm supply stores, hoping to add life and charm to their community spaces. Unfortunately, this is frequently done without checking HOA rules.
Domestic ducks are different from wild ducks in behavior, diet, and reproduction. When introduced into local ponds, they tend to stay and breed rapidly. Unlike wild ducks that migrate or maintain balanced populations,
The Legal and Ethical Implications of Incubating Wild Bird Eggs and Understanding Altricial vs Precocial Species
Wild bird eggs often evoke a sense of wonder and a desire to protect vulnerable wildlife. Many people feel compelled to rescue fallen eggs or incubate them at home, believing they are helping the birds survive. However, this well-meaning impulse can lead to serious legal issues and unintended harm to the birds themselves.
Understanding the Nesting Habits of Doves and Understanding When or When Not to Help Their Young
Doves are familiar birds in many neighborhoods and natural areas. Their gentle cooing and graceful flight often bring a sense of peace. Yet, many people do not fully understand how these birds raise their young or what to do if they encounter a fledgling on the ground. This post explores the nesting behaviors of five common dove species: Mourning Doves, Common Ground Doves, Inca Doves, White-winged Doves, and Eurasian-collared Doves. You will learn about their eggs, incubatio
The Seriousness of Window Collisions: Protecting Birds and What You Can Do
Many people assume that birds flying into windows either fly off unharmed or die instantly. The reality is more complex and troubling. Birds that appear fine after a collision can suffer delayed injuries such as brain swelling, fractures, or become vulnerable to predators. Understanding the seriousness of window collisions and learning how to prevent them can help protect these vital members of our ecosystems.
Understanding Bird Stress Responses: The Hidden Dangers of Calmness and Proper Care Guidelines
Birds have evolved to mask their fear to avoid attracting predators. When a bird freezes or remains still, it may seem relaxed, but this behavior often signals extreme stress. This “freeze” response is a survival tactic, but it hides the fact that the bird’s body is undergoing intense physiological changes.
From Trauma to Triumph: The Rehabilitation Journey of Three Rescued Muscovy Ducks
Rescuing wildlife often reveals stories of resilience and hope. Recently, three Muscovy ducks arrived at For The Birds of Acadiana, each with a unique and challenging history. Their journey from severe injuries to full recovery and release highlights the power of dedicated care and the importance of a supportive environment. This story shares their individual struggles, the treatment they received, and their eventual return to freedom on a peaceful rural property.
How Backyard Birds Adapt to Cold Weather and their Strategies for Staying Warm
When winter arrives, backyard birds face the challenge of staying warm in freezing temperatures. Unlike humans, birds cannot simply put on a coat or turn up the heat. Instead, they rely on a variety of clever and natural strategies to survive the cold. Understanding these behaviors not only deepens our appreciation for these resilient creatures but also helps bird enthusiasts create better habitats to support them through winter.
Understanding Bird Behavior: Do Birds Have a Sense of Smell and What to Do If You Find a Baby Bird
Two common topics that many bird enthusiasts and casual observers wonder about are whether birds have a sense of smell and what to do if they find a baby bird. These questions touch on important aspects of bird biology and conservation. This post explores scientific findings about birds’ sense of smell, debunks myths about baby birds being abandoned if touched by humans, and offers practical advice on how to respond if you encounter a young bird in need.
bottom of page