It was only a couple of years ago that RMBO took on the challenge of understanding where our grassland birds winter in Mexico. Now, we not only know where they winter but are identifying priority areas for conservation. But we are not stopping there, we are beginning to engage local managers and landowners in conversations about grassland bird conservation needs and ways they can make a difference on their land. We are also bringing the grasslands to life for school children so they learn to appreciate and respect this awesome ecosystem and understand they are the future stewards.
Why does RMBO care about grassland birds in Mexico? Grassland bird species have experienced steeper, more widespread and more consistent declines than any other group of North American birds. The reasons are many, but perhaps the single most important threat is the accelerating loss of high-quality grasslands in Mexico. Unless a massive effort is undertaken to halt the loss and begin restoration of this important ecosystem, this trend will almost certainly continue. Fortunately, such an effort is taking shape, and RMBO is a critical partner in its success.
Click here to learn more through our year-end appeal and learn how you can support the work of RMBO scientists and field technicians in Mexico this winter.
About the photo: tracking a bird using a telemetry receiver (Photo by Loni Beyer)
