K-5 Social Action: Saving Endangered Birds

The children in classes K through 5 decided to donate a portion of funds raised this year to help endangered species of birds. In particular, they would like to help endangered birds right here in our state of New York. There are several sites dedicated to the protection of and education about our avian friends. Some of these sites are listed below for your perusal. Take a moment to explore them. Hopefully, they will spark conversation between kids and parents about the importance of saving our natural wildlife resources.

Birds at NYS Deptarment of Environmental Conservation
Contains information on specific birds and endangered species of birds, along with additional information and tools

Bird Webcams
Webcams generally become active in the spring during nesting season, so check these then!

Endangered Species International
To learn about endangered birds all over the world

Newsday article about Peregrine Falcons in NY
An article written Feb 12, 2009 describing how these falcons are once again flourishing

Saving Abandoned Birds

We also learned that there are many birds who, once owned as house pets, are now abandoned and left to fend for themselves in environments that are very different from their native environments. Many of these are tropical birds, such as parrots, parakeets, macaws, cockatoos, and others. As you can imagine, winters in New York are very different from the tropical environment to which birds are indigenous.

These birds make wonderful pets because of their gregarious and intelligent natures. Often, they lose their homes due to a variety of reasons making it impossible for owners to continue caring for them, such as an illness, a move, or a new baby in the family. Lucky birds are placed in shelters where they can receive care, much like animal shelters for misplaced dogs and cats, while waiting to be adopted by a new owner.

If you are interested in learning more about adopting a bird, here are some helpful sites, among others:

Manhattan Bird Club
Contains thoughtful and helpful advice on bird adoption

New York Birds
Info on bird walks in the New York area

Central NY Avian Rescue
Bird shelter

Second Chance Bird Rescue
Bird Shelter

Long Island Parrot Society
Geared to Parrots in particular, contains information on adoptions

Avian Web Bird Adoption & Rescue
Bird adoption