Birds play countless roles in maintaining the Earth’s biological diversity. Not only do birds birds provide services to the ecosystem as pollinators, seed distributors, and scavengers, but also they teach us appreciation of natural diversity. Raising awareness about bird conservation, therefore, is promoting awareness of environmental issues.
The Audubon Society is an American nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to protecting birds and the places they inhabit. One of the largest conservation organizations in the country, Audubon promotes bird watching, and creates backyard and local habitats for birds. Since its founding in 1905, Audubon is a national leader in birding projects that protect our natural world.
On Sunday, April 16, Woodlawn was joined by New York City Audubon, a grassroots community that works for the protection of wild birds and habitats in the five boroughs, for a Spring Bird Tour. Led by our Director of Historical Services Susan Olsen, Audubon’s Bird Guide and Educator Joe McManus, and Associate Director of Content Tod Winston enjoyed a walk among the trees of Woodlawn. The spring adventure commenced with a gobbling turkey performing an elaborate strutting display across the lawn. Puffing out his iridescent feathers, our pluming friend was looking to impress a potential mate. A good number of chipping sparrows, northern mockingbirds, fishcrows, and American robins all made a show throughout the morning.
Along the way, the group also found a hodgepodge of resident and wintering birds. Blue jays, white-throated sparrows, tufted titmice, and red-breasted nuthatches filled the cemetery with song in an almost orchestral manner. As the bird enthusiasts made their way to the pond, they were greeted by tree swallows, northern rough-winged swallows, mallards, a pair of wood ducks, and a great blue heron. The lake shore was teeming with songbird activity, with red-winged blackbirds, swamp sparrows, palm warblers, savannah sparrows juncos, and song sparrows unafraid to make their presence known. In total, the group found five different species of sparrows (six if you include the juncos). As the avian aficionados made their way back to the gate, a red-tailed hawk winged its way as if to say goodbye to this dedicated group of birders.
Woodlawn is proud to be recognized by New York City Audubon Society as a unique habitat supporting high bird diversity.