Join BirdNote tomorrow, November 30th!
Illustrator David Sibley and actor H. Jon Benjamin will face off in the bird illustration battle of the century during BirdNote's Year-end Celebration and Auction!
Grassland birds such as the Long-billed Curlew need your help. Together, we can #BringBirdsBack.
According to National Audubon, "Prairies and grasslands are a largely forgotten and misunderstood landscape of the Americas, yet they are critically important to our nation’s economic health, natural heritage, rural economies, and food security." Read Audubon's North American Grasslands & Birds Report for a comprehensive look at the issues and solutions. And check out the links below for more information:
The threat of grassland conversion:
Learn why ranchers offer hope for grassland birds (Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks).
Consider the role of biofuels policy (BirdLife International).
Check out this story in The Washington Post:
"North America’s Grasslands Are Slowly Disappearing — And No One’s Paying Attention"
Read this article in the journal Nature Communications:
"Cropland Expansion in the United States Produces Marginal Yields at High Costs to Wildlife"
Ways to help:
Support federal and state policies as well as private initiatives that preserve grassland habitat and protect grassland birds. Many local, regional, and national conservation organizations are leading the way, including Audubon and American Bird Conservancy. Take a few minutes to search for grassland conservation organizations near you.
Report your sightings of grassland birds through eBird. The data you contribute will help scientists better understand bird ranges as grassland ecosystems change.
Choose products from Audubon-certified farms and ranches.
Get involved in National Audubon's Conservation Ranching Initiative if you're a rancher or farmer.
Check out these Grassland Conservation Practices (USDA) for landowners.
The threat of climate change:
Learn more in National Audubon's North American Grasslands & Birds Report.
Check out this study and related research:
"Investigating Climate Change Impacts on Grassland Birds"
Ways to help:
Plant more natives at home and in your community. Audubon makes it easy to find native plants for your area.
Report your sightings of grassland birds through eBird. The data you contribute will help scientists better understand bird ranges as our climate changes.
Check out Audubon's Guide to Climate Action.
Reduce your carbon footprint with these tips from Columbia University.
Some good news for grassland birds:
Working Lands Are Working for Grassland Birds (Partners in Flight)
Photo credits:
Long-billed Curlew © Samuel Persson CC
Grasshopper Sparrow © Greg Lavaty
Short-eared Owl © Mick Thompson