Photo: Camilla Cerea / Audubon
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DonateHolding 20% of the world’s fresh water within more than 10,000 miles of shoreline, the Great Lakes are a globally significant ecosystem. Millions of migratory birds depend on coastal habitats along the Great Lakes for shelter, rest, and nourishment for their long journeys. Thousands of raptors, waterfowl, and wetland birds rely on the Great Lakes systems for safe nesting grounds. Yet, coastal development, climate change, and destructive invasive species threaten the coastal systems that support this great range of bird species – from the little Piping Plover to the magnificent Bald Eagle.
Audubon is creating a cohesive strategy across the region to address these threats to the birds of the Great Lakes. With more than 3,000 miles of shoreline in Michigan alone, the greatest conservation opportunity is the active restoration and protection of coastal habitats. By analyzing historical data, modeling bird populations, and engaging our chapters and members, Audubon will map out a detailed plan for how to best conserve indispensable coastal areas. Focused restoration and habitat management is essential to protect and recover ecological systems that support bird species. Active stewardship of habitats by Great Lakes Audubon chapters will play a key role in sustaining the health of these areas over time.
A regional office of the National Audubon Society, Audubon Great Lakes manages conservation work throughout the region to protect and improve habitat critical for birds during their migration and nesting cycles, and we build networks of volunteers and advocates for the natural environment. Within the National Audubon Society’s network, Audubon Great Lakes is viewed as a leader in building communities of volunteer scientists and conservationists that take the lead in advocating for and managing the ecosystems that birds need to thrive.
Learn about the next GLRI Action Plan and how you can be an advocate for Great Lakes birds!
“Seabirds like Osprey and Caspian Tern make the Great Lakes their home during the summer breeding season... But for them to make it here, they must have abundant forage fish during the winter months and arduous migration.”
“This type of work is essential to attracting new people and businesses to our regional economy and improves our quality of place by connecting people to the unique ecosystem and wildlife of Northwest Indiana.” – Congressman Pete Visclosky
President Trump's proposed budget cuts slash the budget for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) by 90 percent.
“If you have ever enjoyed a public park or natural area, you should thank the Land and Water Conservation Fund.”
"These incredible [marsh bird] species tell us how to save our wetlands and water. It won’t be easy and it won’t be fast, but if we want future generations to enjoy the wonders of birds and nature and abundant and clean water, it’s worth it."
As many as a billion birds die each year in window strikes; bill introduced by Congressman Quigley gives federal government opportunity to lead in cost-neutral, bird-friendly planning
Marsh bird surveys are needed to better inform habitat management at Indiana wetlands.
The expansive Audubon network of staff, chapters, and advocates came together in Michigan to protect the state’s precious natural spaces and lawmakers listened.
By Daniel Suarez and Stephanie Beilke
Audubon leadership and members of Northeastern Wisconsin Audubon Society spoke with Congressman Mike Gallagher (WI-8) about conservation in Green Bay.
Dingell, U.S. Congresswoman for Michigan's 12th district, entered into the Congressional Record, a statement commemorating the centennial anniversary of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
"...be prepared to realize that the process [to pass a proclamation] is quite simple."
“This is restoration that is informed by sound science, is measureable, manageable and sustainable—which all make for restoration that is poised for success.”
To rescue the graceful marsh bird, researchers first have to solve the mystery of its dramatic decline.
Your donation supports Audubon’s local work to protect the birds of our region and the habitats upon which they depend.
