Helping birds helps us all… and birds need your help!
The loss of 3 billion breeding birds is a problem for humans as well. Here are five real-life examples of how birds make our lives better. At the bottom of this page, you’ll find ways to share these reasons on social media or as a printable flyer. And don’t stop there—try out the 7 Simple Actions to help bring birds back.
Bird Habitat Supports Clean Water
Protecting waterways and their surrounding watersheds protects bird habitat and clean water. More than 60% of drinking water comes from rivers and streams. For example, research shows that protecting forested land in upstate New York watersheds is the most cost-effective way to provide clean water in New York City. Looking after our rivers, streams, waterways and open waters will provide benefits for people and birds.
Birds and Their Habitat Support Your Health
Experiencing nature can improve physical health and decrease stress, with benefits for recovery after surgery, test-taking performance, and workplace satisfaction. In fact, listening to bird songs and calls can help improve a person’s mood and attention. More and more research shows the healing power of nature and how valuable it is to spend time outdoors, exploring the natural world. Birds add beauty, song and drama to the experience!
Birds are Good for the Economy
Birdwatching generates almost $100 billion in economic impacts, and more than 45 million people in the U.S. watch birds. Certain bird species can make a big impact on local economies. For example, Northern Pintails generate $100 million annually from bird watchers and hunters spending on hotels, sporting goods stores, gas stations, and other local businesses. Towns and communities across the country are investing in birds and habitat conservation and celebrating the results.
Birds Benefit Your Beverages
Insect-eating birds protect farm crops, including the key ingredients in coffee and wine! A single bird can save up to 24 pounds of coffee beans per acre each year from pest damage. On vineyards, birds respond quickly to pest outbreaks by eating insect larvae and protecting grapes. Bird-friendly coffee and wine products are increasingly in demand in the marketplace as consumers look for sustainable, fairly-traded, organically-grown options.
Bird Habitat Boosts Property Values
Parks and wildlife refuges can be good for birds and property values. Green spaces, parks and gardens in and near our homes and communities provide valuable habitat for birds—and havens for people who enjoy the outdoors. The best part? They’re a great investment! One study showed that the presence of birds and green space can increase property values by up to $32,000!
SHARE THIS CAMPAIGN ON SOCIAL MEDIA!
Download full-resolution versions of these images and share them on your favorite social network:
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Download rectangular images optimized for Twitter and Facebook
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Suggested hashtags: #bringbirdsback, #outdoors, #birdfriendly, #natureheals, #greenspace, #backyardwildlife
Download a Flier to Share!
Why Care About Birds [pdf], for home/office printers
Why Care About Birds [pdf], for professional printing with full bleeds
The U.S North American Bird Conservation Initiative (NABCI) Committee is a group of government agencies, private and non-profit organizations, and bird initiatives helping partners across the continent meet their common bird conservation objectives. NABCI’s vision is that healthy and abundant populations of North American birds are valued by future generations and sustained by habitats that benefit birds and people. Bird Conservancy of the Rockies is a US NABCI Committee member organization.
