Georgia Partners in Flight

Partners in Flight is an international bird conservation effort. Initiated in 1990 in response to declines in numerous species of Neotropical migratory birds, PIF seeks to reverse these declines and ensure healthy populations of songbirds and other birds for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations.

Many familiar songbirds such as warblers, vireos, orioles and tanagers are among those referred to as Neotropical migrants. These birds breed in North America and migrate to Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean to spend the winter. Loss of habitat needed for wintering, breeding and as stopovers during migration has caused significant declines in numerous species of our favorite and most colorful songsters.

In Georgia, over 90 species of Neotropical migrants depend on the forests, thickets and fields of our state as areas to rest and refuel during their long migrations. Many -- 54 species -- also nest and raise their young in our habitats. Although declining, most of these birds are still relatively common, and Georgia Partners in Flight seeks to address and meet the needs of these and other land birds through effective partnerships with state and federal agencies, private conservation and education organizations, corporations, colleges and universities, and concerned citizens and bird enthusiasts.

What You Can Do To Benefit Birds

• Join Partners in Flight! You can participate in working groups dealing with Outreach & Education, Management, Monitoring, or Research
• Make your yard a Backyard Wildlife Habitat ... and spread the word to your neighbors!
  • Plant a variety of native trees, shrubs, and flowers to provide food and cover for birds
  • Provide a clean, reliable source of water
  • Keep your cat indoors and reduce the reflection of large windows to reduce bird deaths in your yard
  • Provide a home for chimney swifts ... build a Chimney Swift Tower ... dont cap your chimney
  • If you must use chemical pesticides in your yard, be careful .. birds can be killed by both direct and indirect exposure
  • Drink shade grown coffee to help support habitats for birds on the wintering grounds
• Support local and national conservation organizations
• Volunteer at a National Wildlife Refuge, National Forest, Wildlife Management Area, or Bird Conservation Area
• Be a citizen scientist ... participate in Breeding Bird Surveys, Christmas Counts, Bunting Watch, etc.
• Buy a Federal Waterfowl Stamp... funds are used to purchase National Wildlife Refuges that provide bird habitat
• Funding for bird conservation is critically needed ...
• Contribute to the Tax Check-off, purchase a Nongame Wildlife License Plate for your vehicle depicting a bald eagle and American flag, and support Teaming with Wildlife
• Share your Passion for Birds
• Organize or join local bird walks, clubs, or meetings
• Educate yourself and become active in your communitys planning, development, and zoning

For more information, call (478) 994-1438.