Saltmarsh Sparrow May Find Itself In Harm's Way

Global warming could threaten dependency on local coastal habitat
Though perhaps not as dramatic as polar bears drowning in rising Arctic seas and melting ice, the perils of a little sparrow that depends on the salt marshes of southeastern Connecticut for nesting could be a local indicator of the effects of global warming.

"This could be the first Connecticut species to go extinct if sea levels continue to rise as they are,” said Milan Bull, senior director of science and conservation at the Audubon Society. “With global warming and sea-level rise increasing, our coastal salt marshes are at great risk, very great risk." Read More...

Tags: Birds, Climate Change, Global Warming

Climate Change and the Redstart

Early environment may be key to migration location in the American Redstart according to a study by the University of Maryland and Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center of the National Zoo.

While these redstarts appear to be thriving today, the research team says their findings point to the need to consider conservation measures in the winter habitat.

"The models predict increasing drought in the Caribbean," says Studds. "Rain is very important to these birds. If their winter habitat gets drier and their departure dates get later, populations in southern areas could see big declines." Read More...

Tags: American Redstart, Birds, Climate Change, Global Warming

Birders, try Bigby!

This is a low-key, friendly bit of birding rivalry that is not especially original but which seems appropriate in these days of carbon emissions and climate change. If you have ever felt even a tiny bit guilty about driving or flying to see a good bird (or several) why not join us in a year of carbon-neutral birding? Read More...

This is about more than just incrementally reducing carbon emissions. Its about birders being leaders in creatively finding new ways to carry on in a changing world.

Tags: Birding, Birds, Climate Change, Global Warming