Give birds a hand during their spring migration
Bird watchers are encouraged to enjoy the return of migratory birds to Wisconsin, this spring, and take a few simple steps to help feathered friends.
Because Wisconsin is next to the Mississippi River flyway and Great Lakes shorelines, more than 350 species of birds have been reported in May. In addition, diverse grasslands, marshes and forests provide key habitats for migratory birds.
Warblers, orioles, thrushes, hummingbirds, tanagers, indigo buntings and shorebirds are among the favorite long-distance migratory birds people will likely see. Their migration is influenced primarily by changes in the duration of daylight.
Native bird populations in the U.S. and Canada, have declined by nearly 3 billion birds since 1970. To help birds during this key time, take the following small steps at home:
• Plant native plants, including fruit-bearing native trees like serviceberry, dogwood and cherry, which provide food and cover.
• Take care of bird feeders by cleaning them once every two weeks, and attracting the most species with a highfat seed, like black oil sunflower.
• Shut off exterior lights at night, during peak migration.
• Reduce window collisions with external screens, markers or cords.
In addition, the Great Wisconsin Birdathon takes place from April 15 to June 15. This event is Wisconsin’s largest fundraiser for bird conservation, and is hosted by the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, a nonprofit that protects state’s lands, waters and wildlife, and connects all people with nature.
Bird enthusiasts from across the state, form teams each year, to find as many bird species as possible, while raising critical conservation funds. Similar to a walkathon fundraiser, participants record bird sightings for pledges, instead of miles logged.
Individuals or teams can participate any time during the birdathon, and all skill levels are welcome. While many participants choose to compete over 24 hours, teams also can opt to bird for a weekend, a week or even the whole 60-day event.
Teams can bird anywhere in Wisconsin – a state or local park, wooded areas or even in their backyard – anywhere there are birds.
The money raised by the Birdathon supports the Natural Resources Foundation’s Bird Protection Fund, which provides financial backing for projects around Wisconsin, that protect bird habitats, support avian research and monitoring efforts, and promote education and outreach. Last year, the birdathon raised $117,846, for bird conservation.
Each year, after the event concludes, the Bird Protection Fund Committee, composed of Wisconsin bird conservation experts, including DNR staff, helps determine where the funds will positively impact the state’s birds and allocates funding accordingly.
To register, make a pledge or learn more, visit wisconservation. org.
