The State of the Birds Reports represent political, popular, and scientific recognition that birds serve as high-level indicators of the health of the country’s natural resources. Our diverse habitats provide us with abundance – clean air, clean water, and fertile soils. These habitats are what support the natural resources on which birds depend; we also depend on these natural resources.
The State of the Birds Reports present broad-scale indices that account for the health of America’s habitats. These comprehensive reports document important and troubling messages about the state of our environment. Fortunately, the reports also find cause for optimism and identify conservation success stories plus opportunities for conservation action.
The State of the Birds Reports are based on various bird monitor efforts that provide a scientific foundation for identifying conservation opportunities. Using bird monitoring data the reports explain why bird populations are in decline and identify ways to reverse declines. Bird monitoring provides the scientific means used to identify problems and solutions, and helps us to identify where conservation investments are most likely to result in conservation success. By acting on the conservation opportunities identified in The U.S. State of the Birds Reports we can protect and re-build resilient landscapes, landscapes that will better provide society with the natural resources we need to thrive in the face of climate change and continued population growth.
