Natural Vineland

08/26/2026

Native plants provide a place for sleeping bees to rest and food for monarch caterpillars!!

08/19/2026

Earlier this week, bulldozers were moving through Big Bend National Park in Texas, where Endangered Species Act (ESA) protections and environmental reviews have been waived to expedite the construction of roads and other activities related to border security.
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Yesterday, we heard the welcome news that these activities have been paused. However, ABC is still deeply concerned about the current and potential future impacts of construction in Big Bend, including roadbuilding on Mariscal Mountain, close to the edge of Mariscal Canyon.
The canyon is home to what is probably the densest population of nesting Peregrine Falcons in Texas. Another vulnerable bird species likely to be affected is the Yellow-billed Cuckoo, whose western population is listed under the ESA and relies on habitat where road construction is taking place.
ABC is also concerned about plans to construct a corridor through the park's beaver pond — the only permanent wetland of its kind in west Texas — and the wetland habitat it supports. Border wall-related habitat loss goes far beyond Texas, though; wildlife areas in Arizona, California, and New Mexico are also being impacted.
“We frequently hear folks ask, ‘What’s the issue for birds? Can’t they just fly over the wall?’” said Brian Brooks, Vice President of Advocacy and Threats at American Bird Conservancy (ABC). “The issue for birds is the loss of vital habitat, at a time when loss of habitat has already contributed to the loss of nearly 3 billion birds from North America in a single human lifetime.

“The destruction of habitat in Big Bend National Park is heartbreaking for all of us,” said Brooks. He noted that ABC is in touch with local partners who are documenting the damage and cataloging immediate plant and animal impacts.

08/19/2026

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08/19/2026

Here are four species that breed in the banding area. Can you identify them?

All banding is conducted under a federally authorized Bird Banding Permit issued by the U.S. Geological Survey.

08/19/2026

Monarch enjoying blazing star today!

08/14/2026

08/14/2026

They’re saying birding is cool.
Something tells me you already know that…

Across the country, people of all ages are discovering the joy of finding wonder in the birds around them. Whether it's a sunrise bird walk, a friendly species count competition, or simply noticing what birds are doing outside our windows, birding is connecting more people with nature than ever before.
At American Bird Conservancy, we’re especially excited to see so many young birders turning their passion into action. From speaking up in our Action Center to advocating for stronger protections and making their voices heard, young conservationists are helping shape the future for birds.

Read more about the rise of young birders in The Atlantic:
https://abcbirds.info/4fLhVI1