The 2025 U.S. State of the Birds report was presented on March 13th at the 90th North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference. This new comprehensive assessment is the result of a project of various organizations within the North American Bird Conservation Initiative (NABCI), including the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Sadly, the trend of declining bird populations across the nation continues at a worrisome pace. Key among study findings is that about a third of American birds across the majority of bird groups — and their various habitats — are at high or moderate risk. A landmark study published in the journal Science in 2020 similarly sounded an alert that North American Bird populations were declining — by close to 30% over a fifty year period.
"Study after study has shown that habitat loss and degradation are the primary threats to healthy bird populations. Nothing else comes close," Dr. Gregory S. Butcher, International Migratory Species Coordinator, U. S. Forest Service (now retired). Habitat is much more than a location or place to go; it is an ecosystem that supports life. Biologically diverse natural habitats provide what is vital for the survival of a species: food, water, shelter, clean air, and physical space to carry out life's functions, including reproduction. When habitats shrink, become fragmented, are polluted, or destroyed, species lose their homes — they lose access to critical ecosystem resources necessary for survival.
"Our migratory birds are going through some very tough times, and we need action at every level to turn things around. But it’s really not enough to demand action at every level on the nationwide, state, and local scene. Every concerned American can do things at home to make the world better for birds. It’s not simply preaching conservation; it is practicing it! Saving Birds Thru Habitat is doing just that. The use of as many native plantings as possible in our own yards – from grasses, to flowers, to bushes, to trees - is crucial. Protecting birds from window collisions and outdoor cats is part of the process. So is providing water in the yard and thoughtful bird-friendly shopping for the dinner table. Teaching and setting an example are weighty responsibilities, and Saving Birds Thru Habitat is showing the way. "
Paul Baicich, Co-author of three bird books, co-editor of the monthly Birding Community E-bulletin, columnist for Bird Watcher’s Digest, and an officer for the Friends of the Migratory Bird/Duck Stamp.

Saving Birds Thru Habitat • PO BOX 288, Omena, MI 49674 • (231) 271-3738 • info@savingbirds.org
Habitat Discovery Center: 5020 N. Putnam, Omena, MI 49674