Is THERE A BIRD FRIENDLY CITY?
When we visited D. C. (the U. S. capital) earlier this year I noticed it was a big city like others who seem to have a monopoly on some living things (besides people): some trees, squirrels, a few big rats (TRUE) and, of course, birds. Birds can fly so they can travel all over.
According to “U. S. A. Today,” 20 percent of the world’s avian species can be found in cities. So birding (birdwatching) is easier than you think, and with 800 some species of birds in the world, well, some show up in U. S. cities.
The article goes on to point out some big city hot spots. Like Austin, Texas, with 291 bird species because of its success, in community engagement, habitat protection and creating safe species for birds.
349 species of birds can be found in Chicago’s Montrose Pt. Bird Sanctuary. And what are they attracted to? Dunes, shrubs, trees, and wildflowers attract migrating flycatchers, warblers, sparrows also.
While some birds like to live in cities, some migrate, and are victimized by them, especially when it comes to glass. Some may fly into glass because it reflects the surroundings so well.
And now there is a “Bird safe” buildings movement. The Audubon chapter, NYC Bird Alliance, learned one billion birds in the U. S. die each year from window collisions from artificial light reflective glass. Wow, that hurts. Migrators like the ruby-throated hummingbird and the black-throated blue warbler are vulnerable especially.
The bird friendly glass with, special coating and patterns, doesn’t reflect surroundings and can even be cheaper than the regular glass (the last according to a3glassfabricator.com).
We want our feathered friends as safe as can be, right? Between the feral/outdoor cats and city windows, it’s no wonder the bird population is declining. Oh — you can help birds, especially in winter, leaving out bird seed, water, or both, planting trees producing fruit like cherry trees, or making a bird tree wreath! They will appreciate it.
HELP A BIRD TODAY!
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