MIGRANT BIRDS

MonITORING AND RESTORATION FOR MIGRANTS

Monitoring Protocol

BCN, in cooperation with other Chicagoland agencies, has developed a migration monitoring protocol for studying habitat use and foraging habits of migrant birds, and used it to study two local sites (see report on results in the next section below). This work is part of the "Chicago Urban Treaty Project" generously funded through the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation's Five Star & Urban Waters Restoration Program, through funding provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Urban Bird Treaty Program.

• Download BCN's Migrant Restoration Monitoring Protocol (.pdf)
• Download the Foraging Survey Monitoring Form (.pdf)

Habitat Restoration and Research

BCN Migration Monitoring 2015-2017

The results of a three year study (2015-2017) at LaBagh Woods and Montrose Point aimed at identifying the effects of habitat restoration on migrant birds, and the foraging preferences of and plantings used most by migrants. Written by the Urban Wildlife Institute and Bird Conservation Network.

Migrant Bird Habitat Study

The results of a three year study (2001-2003) aimed at identifying Chicago region tree species that are used most by foraging migrant birds in spring and recommendations for improving habitat for migrants. Written by Audubon-Chicago Region and the Field Museum.

Why Migrants Need Our Help

Chicagoland's Role

The Greater Chicagoland area plays an important role for migrants passing through the Midwest in the spring and fall. In particular the Chicagoland area is known for its high volume of migrant warblers and other passerines. On an exceptional day, one may even see over 30 species of warblers at a prime stopover site for migrant birds. For many birds traveling great distances over Lake Michigan, lakefront parks and urban greenspaces play a key role.

Habitat Loss and Threats

As development continues to take away habitat throughout Northern Illinois and urban areas throughout the United States, the need to protect areas for migrants becomes greater and greater. For many species, shelter from harsh weather and predators and an ample supply of food are vital to successfully reaching their breeding grounds to the north.

New Trends in Restoration

Migrants are also being studied due to their differing habitat needs from those of breeding birds. Restoration for both plants and breeding birds often includes removing non-native understory, but until a diverse mix of native shrubs and saplings has time to establish, land managers are researching how to best continue to provide important stopover habitat for migrants.