The Dickcissel is a locally fairly common breeder in the CW region. Preferred habitat includes grasslands with mixed forbs and abandoned weedy fields. BCN eBird data indicates that this species has declinded very significantly in the Chicago area. This species may be facing serious threats on its wintering grounds and from generalized restoration efforts and mowing and burning of nonnatives. More research is urgently needed. Our region is estimated to hold 33% of this species total population and has received one of the highest conservation scores in our area. Photo: © Eric Secker