Urban Conservation Treaty
for Migratory Birds
A program working with cities and partners to conserve migratory birds through education, hazard reductions, citizen science, conservation actions, and conservation and habitat improvement strategies
in urban/suburban areas.
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Urban Bird Treaty cities:
New Orleans, Louisiana; Chicago, Illinois; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Houston, Texas; Portland, Oregon; St. Louis, Missouri; Nashville, Tennessee; Anchorage, Alaska; New York City, New York; Phoenix, Arizona; Kennedale, Texas; Twin Cities – Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota; Indianapolis, Indiana; Opelika, Alabama; Hartford, Connecticut; Ogden, Utah; Lewistown, Montana; San Francisco, California; Albuquerque, NM; Denver, CO and Washington DC.
URBAN BIRD TREATY CITIES
The Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds (Urban Bird Treaty) program was created to help municipal governments conserve birds that live and nest in or overwinter or migrate through their cities. Launched in 1999, the first treaty was signed with New Orleans, and the second treaty was signed with Chicago.
The Urban Bird Treaty programis a unique, collaborative effort between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and participating U.S. cities bringing together private citizens, Federal, State, and municipal agencies, and non-governmental organizations. Cities can become effective sanctuaries for birds and other wildlife, with an environmentally aware citizenry dedicated to conserving and enhancing natural resources. This is not only good for the birds, but also for the quality of life of people living in and visiting our cities. By restoring and conserving green-space, Urban Bird Treaty cities enhance urban areas for migratory birds that nest, overwinter, or pass through municipal and urban/suburban neighborhoods as well as for citizens. The Urban Bird Treaty program has an emphasis on education and outreach programs and includes resources for constructing schoolyard habitat sites, creating backyard habitats, and resources for educating citizens about birds and their conservation in an urban environment. Key features of the program also includes suggestions for reducing hazards to birds during migration; restoring, enhancing, and protecting avian habitats; providing education and outreach opportunities in urban and suburban communities; monitoring bird populations when appropriate; and creating and building career awareness and career development opportunities for young people.
Because birds are widely considered indicators of the health of our environment, it is a good way to engage people in better understanding their environment and hopefully take action to keep it healthy and safe for birds (and for people.)