09/30/2026
Right now, millions of migratory birds are taking to the skies, tracing the Mississippi River on an epic journey to their winter homes. It’s a breathtaking spectacle: one of nature’s greatest migrations unfolding right above us.
Unfortunately, migratory birds across North America are facing steep declines, driven by habitat loss and a changing climate.
But - here’s where hope takes flight. Southern Illinois sits at the heart of a vital bird superhighway, offering forests, wetlands, and bluffs as essential rest stops for these weary travelers. Every acre protected or restored becomes a lifeline, helping birds refuel, find shelter, and gather strength for the miles ahead.
Yet, with only 6% of land conserved in the southern third of Illinois, these safe havens are far too rare. If we want to give migratory birds—and all wildlife—a fighting chance, we must act now to protect and connect more of these critical habitats.
Learn more about conserving land in southern Illinois: https://heartlandsconservancy.org/land/
Here's more information about migratory bird populations from BirdLife International: https://sowb.birdlife.org/
📷 Pelicans over Rend Lake by Rick Byrnes
