Save Our Boreal Birds

Did you enjoy the birds from the Northern Boreal Forests that patronized your bird feeders this past winter? The Red-breasted Nuthatch, Pine Siskin, Purple Finch, Crossbills and others? How about now during spring migration? The Kinglets, Vireos, Warblers, and many other neo-tropical migrants passing through Nebraska? There are also a large variety of shorebirds and waterfowl that move through the state using the Central Great Plains and Missouri River flyways which makes Nebraska one of the most unique birding spots on the North American Continent. And what do many of these birds have in common? More than half their population breeds in the Northern Boreal Forests in Canada, and the population of many of these birds have declined by up to 70% in the past 40 years.

Canada's Boreal Forest, a 1.3 billion acre green garland stretching from Yukon to Newfoundland, is one of the world’s most unique and important eco-systems. The billions of birds raised in North America’s Bird Nursery leave their nests in the fall and migrate to winter locations throughout North, Central, and South America. Many of our favorite backyard birds begin their lives in the Boreal.

Unfortunately, the Boreal Forest is steadily being carved up by unchecked oil and gas, mining, logging, and hydro development. While less than 8% of the Boreal Forest is permanently protected, already 30% has been allocated to industry.

In recent years, there have been long term declines in many Boreal birds species. Rusty Blackbirds have declined 95%, Olive-sided Flycatchers, Boreal Chickadees, Bay-breasted and Canada Warblers, and Evening Grosbeaks by more than 70%, and scaup and scooters by over 50%.

Fortunately there is still time to ensure that the Boreal remains North America’s Bird Nursery. Canadian governments must take responsibility for conserving this precious natural legacy before the birds we love face extinction. Show your concern for the future of Canada’s Boreal Forest and the billions of birds that rely on it.

Sign the petition today, urging government leaders to protect the Boreal. Birds know no borders, and you don’t have to be a Canadian citizen to sign the petition. Log on to:
http://www.saveourborealbirds.org/
and sign the petition today. It’s essential if we want to continue to enjoy the diversity of birds in North America, and guarantee that our children and grandchildren may expect the same.
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