A phenomenon of nature occurs over Washington every spring and most of us are not aware of it because we are sleeping. From late-March to the end of May each year millions of birds fly over us during spring nights.
Action Alert: Help Migratory Birds Across the Western Hemisphere
ACTION ALERT: Help Migratory Birds Across the Western Hemisphere
We have lost 3 out of every 5 Rufous Hummingbirds since 1970, reflecting an urgent need for on-the-ground conservation of both their winter habitat in Mexico and summer habitat in the United States.
Each spring, more than half of our nation's bird species return from their wintering habitat in Latin America and the Caribbean, including beloved yet declining songbirds and shorebirds.
We have lost three billion birds in North America alone since 1970, and to stem the tide of further devastating losses of migratory birds, we need to conserve their habitats across the Western Hemisphere.
The bipartisan Migratory Birds of the Americas Conservation Enhancements Act (H.R. 4389/S. 4022) would do just that by increasing on-the-ground conservation projects.
Urge Congress to support urgently needed conservation funding for America's migratory birds.
Taking action makes a difference. Sign at the link below to help support funding for conservation projects that support migratory birds.
Lights Out to Save Migrating Birds
Redmond Declares World Migratory Bird Day
Redmond Declares World Migratory Bird Day
Thanks to the efforts of Joshua Feldon, a high school junior and new Conservation Committee member, Redmond proclaimed May 14, 2022 as World Migratory Bird Day.
Joshua Feldon and proclamation signed by Mayor Angela Birney.
Though birders are all aware of the astonishing feat that millions of birds perform twice yearly flying from their winter homes in Central and South America to their breeding grounds in North America and back again, many in the public remain unaware. As a first step in promoting bird-friendly communities and to increase public awareness, Joshua presented the Redmond City Council with the proclamation which was signed by Mayor Angela Birney.
Josh started noticing backyard and neighborhood birds while spending extra time at home during the pandemic. He became fascinated by the wide variety of avian sights, sounds, and behaviors and started to look forward to seeing both new species and familiar visitors. When he developed a soft spot for a visiting Northern Flicker he named “Windom” he knew he was hooked and started looking for ways to help our local birds thrive. Working with EAS has been a natural fit. An honors student at Redmond High School, Josh hopes to someday combine his STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) talents and his passion for wildlife as an environmental engineer
So, what’s next? Joshua suggested the Conservation Committee join National Audubon and the International Dark-sky Association in developing a Lights Out program, which encourages building owners and managers to turn off excess lighting during migrating months. We are getting our subcommittee organized. If you or someone you know is interested in being on the team, we would be delighted to have you join us. Please email the office or Claire Waltman, Conservation Chair, at cwaltman1@gmail.com.
Fall Shorebird Migration Begins in August
Once the June solstice is passed fall begins for shorebirds. In the breeding areas of the northern tundra these long-distance migrants begin to feel the urge to migrate south. By the end of July and the first two weeks of August adult shorebirds are flying south and can be expected to stop along Washington waterways to rest and refuel.
Home and Abroad Fire is Threatening Birds and Humans
Little Masters Club Meets Migration
Little Masters Club is a non-profit group that seeks to help “children discover their potential and develop the skills to be successful adults.” The focus is on parents and children learning together and creating community with others who speak Chinese. This was evident during the two days that volunteers from the Youth Education Committee (YEC) spent with them.