Endangered Bird Species that Call Southern Ontario Home

Southern Ontario is home to several endangered bird species. To be an endangered species means they are still currently living in the wild but face imminent threats of extinction or extirpation (becoming extinct from a particular area). As bird lovers, being aware of which birds currently face the most threat and how we can help is extremely useful. From enhancing your backyard biodiversity to participating in citizen science, there are plenty of ways that we can support the ecosystems these species need to thrive.

Here are a few of Ontario's endangered species of birds:

1. Eastern Loggerhead Shrike: The Eastern Loggerhead Shrike is a small songbird that inhabits grasslands and shrublands. Loss of habitat and changes in land use practices have contributed to its decline.

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   Kirtland Warbler. Photo by Kristen Martyn. 

   
   
   

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3. Kirtland's Warbler: The main threat to this bird is the limited availability of suitable habitat. They need jack pine forests and man introduced forest fire prevention and suppression, and development have heavily reduced the amount of these types of forests. Previously extirpated from Ontario, this species is making a remarkable comeback. Read more here. 

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Henslow Sparrow. Photo by Kristen Martyn. 

1. Henslow Sparrow: The main threat to this species is a loss of habitat, specifically open field prairies that have been converted to pastures, crops, and even developed for housing. 

Red-headed Woodpecker. Photo by Shayna Hartley. 

1. Red-headed Woodpecker: The main threat to this species is a loss and fragmentation of forests, as well as competition with European Starlings for nesting cavities.

Piping Plover. Photo by Kristen Martyn. 

1. Piping Plover: Sadly, the main threat to this species is human disturbance. The sandy beaches they nest and live on are also popular for humans and can lead nests being destroyed. 

These are just a few examples of endangered bird species in Southern Ontario. It's important to note that conservation efforts are underway to protect and restore their habitats, promote awareness, and ensure their survival for future generations.

How Can You Help?

• Share this blog with a friend! The more people that know, education is a powerful tool for change
• Support local habitat - Gardening for wildlife is incredibly important, you can learn more about it here
• Participate in citizen science that support larger conservation efforts. Learn more here.
• Offer high quality feeders and food for species that may visit your yard. Learn more here.

We are so lucky to live somewhere with such a wide breadth of species and habitats, and it is imperative that we all play a part in protecting them.

Warmly,

Heather