2022 State of the Birds
by Lisa Reed, Golden Eagle Audubon Board President
Found nearly everywhere, birds are important indicators of environmental health. News From the Nest readers may be interested in the recently released 2022 State of the Birds report*, which shows birds declining in most habitats across the United States. Rufous Hummingbirds, Greater Sage-Grouse, Evening Grosbeaks, and Gray-Crowned Rosy-finches are declining in southwest Idaho.
Thankfully, the report also highlights examples of how the work of Golden Eagle Audubon and our many partners is making a difference. Public support, policy work, and funding for species in decline can help a population recover. A local, well-known example is the Peregrine Falcon. The World Center for Birds of Prey was instrumental in the recovery of this incredible bird. We also know that waterfowl populations show strong growth where investments in wetland conservation occurs. Ducks Unlimited has a robust program for wetland conservation and restoration in this region.
Local Action is Powerful
Repeatedly, reports like the 2022 State of the Birds show how actions that benefit birds also create healthier environments for people and all the life that depends on our shared habitats. We have an unprecedented opportunity to improve habitat. Here’s some tips on what you can do!
· Participate in community science projects like the upcoming Christmas Bird Count (see dates in today’s News From The Nest newsletter). Past Audubon Christmas Bird Counts provided key data for the 2022 State of the Birds report.
· Commit to creating important bird habitat in your yard or on your balcony. GEAS is here to support you with our Habitat Patch Program.
· Join GEAS in restoring key bird habitat through our Boise River ReWild project.
· Keep cats indoors, or in screened areas or on leashes when outdoors. Over 2.4 billion birds are killed by cats (domestic and feral) every year in the U.S. alone.
· If birds are colliding with windows at your home or office, take action! There are simple, low-cost solutions, such as suggested by the American Bird Conservancy
· Continue to be an active member of Golden Eagle Audubon Society.
* Published by 33 leading science and conservation organizations and agencies, the 2022 U.S. State of the Birds report is the first look at the nation’s birds since a landmark 2019 study showed the loss of nearly 3 billion birds in the United States and Canada in the last 50 years.