Continental and local declines in numerous bird populations are the cause of much concern, not only over the future of migratory and resident bird species, but over the future of many other plant and animal species as well, as birds are often seen as indicators of larger issues.

Reasons for bird declines are complex and point to factors such as the modification and fragmentation of habitat, brood parasitism, and the loss of wintering and migration habitat. In response to these declines, scientists and the concerned public began to recognize the need for coordinated and cooperative conservation efforts focusing on birds as indicators of various issues. A goal of the Avian Science Center is to work with our partners to shed some light on those larger issues through learning more about birds.

This fostering of strong partnerships among diverse groups is key to achieving a vision of integrated bird conservation. The Avian Science Center works with communities of conservationists, recreationists, land managers, scientists and administrators to help protect and restore North America’s ecological systems (and the birds they sustain) for present and future generations. Only through these joint efforts will we succeed in protecting and restoring the habitats and landscapes upon which all life depends.

The conservation section of our website highlights some of these broader efforts. Some are efforts in which the Avian Science Center is involved, others reach much farther afield and demonstrate innovative conservation initiatives that are working to address important issues surrounding bird conservation.