In the
hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy not to notice birds.
With alarm clocks buzzing and lattes being slurped on the go, sometimes
we take for granted the chirping that starts each morning.
Depending on where you live, you're probably well acquainted with
some of the heartier species, of course - those that are a bit
difficult to ignore - like crows, seagulls, pigeons or jays. But I've
been amazed how, when I slow down a little, I start to notice so many
other birds, with a variety of sizes, habits and communication.
Aaron Virgin, with the National Audubon Society, conveyed the importance of all birds in our ecosystems and how significant a role we can play in protecting them.
Of course, the Audubon Society is a well-known and respected
advocacy organization which sponsors a number activities for families,
birdwatchers and environmental activists. But I was surprised to learn
that the organization was founded in response to fashion - ladies' hats
at the turn of the 19th century sported large plumes. One of the
society's first successes was protecting water birds from plume hunting.
This 100-year history
has benefited many bird species, including the bald eagle, whose
population was able to bounce back from the brink of extinction, after
a concerted effort to ban the pesticide DDT and protect the birds
through endangered species status. Thanks to these actions, their
numbers have increased dramatically and this national icon has been removed from the endangered species list.
The Audubon Society continues its important work today, for species such as the Piping Plover, a small coastal bird that is vital to beach and wetland ecosystems.
We can all play a role in protecting birds:
• Check out the Audubon activities in your area.
• Step outside, take a deep breath, and look up. (You'll see some birds soon, I guarantee)
•
Think twice before cutting down trees and bushes in your yard.
Observe for a while first - what wildlife (including birds, insects,
bees, butterflies, etc.) depends on them? Audubon offers an excellent
guide for creating a "healthy yard", one that is a habitat and sanctuary for wildlife.
• Use natural, biodegradable cleaning and yard products.
Avoid chemical fungicides, pesticides and herbicides which contain
toxic pollutants that endanger bird, animal, fish and human life.
Photo credit: National Audubon Society, (c) Sidney Maddock
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