Conservation
Our conservation support will help you act on behalf of birds, other wildlife, and the natural world.
Human activity is the biggest threat to our environment, but we often feel helpless because our individual actions seem minuscule compared to such immense issues. However, millions of people taking small steps that suit their lives will benefit generations to come. Start with what you can—but start.
RECENT CONSERVATION BLOG POSTS
We Still Need the Migratory Bird Protection Act
We Still Need the Migratory Bird Protection Act If you’ve ever witnessed a tree cut down while a flicker was nesting in it, or tried to save oil-soaked birds on a beach, you’ve seen what is called “incidental take” of migratory birds - the destruction of nests or killing of birds by human action not
Community Science with iNaturalist at the Denver Audubon Nature Center and Trails
Community Science with iNaturalist at the Denver Audubon Nature Center and Trails By Rick Kenney and Tom Loucks When Kate Hogan asked us to add to the Denver Audubon Nature Center and Trails iNaturalist project, we were happy to take on the challenge. We would need to make observations in the area that surrounds the
What It Takes to Win Gold (Native Plant Certifications, That Is)
What It Takes to Win Gold (Native Plant Certifications, That Is) By Kate Hogan, Community Outreach Coordinator In 2014, when I began working at Denver Audubon, I had no previous experience certifying native plant gardens. As a first-time home buyer in Parker, I inherited the typical suburban yard with a postage stamp lawn, a lot
STRATEGY
Our vision is to transform Denver into the most bird-friendly city in the US. To achieve this, conservation coordinator, Suzy Hiskey, is currently soliciting input from Denver Audubon’s supporters, members, and volunteers to develop a strategy for attacking the biggest threats to birds in the Denver metro area. We expect to post the strategy this autumn.
If you need help with a conservation issue or want to give input on our strategy, please email Suzy Hiskey.
CONSERVATION COMMITTEE
Our biggest environmental influence is through our conservation committee, which supports Denver-area residents and advocacy groups with advice and guidance, including writing letters, commenting on legislation, and testifying at hearings. We discuss current issues at bimonthly committee meetings that are open to the public.
If you want to join our committee or attend a meeting, please email the chair, Polly Reetz.
INITIATIVES
Though not an exhaustive list of threats, below are a few of our recent conservation initiatives.
KEEPING CATS INDOORS IS BETTER FOR CATS AND BIRDS
Outdoor cats and feral cat communities kill 2.4 billion birds in the US every year. Keep your cats indoors to help bird populations flourish, and to help your cats live healthier and longer lives.
USING NON-LEAD AMMUNITION PROTECTS RAPTORS
Lead in bullets leaches into animal tissue that raptors scavenge and eat. This lead poisons bald eagles and other raptors. Hunters can protect non-game wildlife by using non-lead ammunition.
GROWING NATIVE PLANTS RESTORES LOST BIRD HABITAT
Habitat loss through human development is an enormous threat to birds. Using native plants in your landscaping provides habitat and attracts beautiful birds to your yard.
APPLYING WINDOW TREATMENTS PREVENTS STRIKES
Birds can’t see windows. When they smack into windows, it can kill or seriously injure them. Use bird-friendly window treatments to help birds fly around windows—not into them.