Bird Ecology and Urbanization: How to Make an Avian Sanctuary

Bird ecology is the study of birds that are endangered and how they relate to the environment. Urban sprawl has had an impact on bird populations and bird migration; we humans, in a big way, are responsible for avian mortality due to over-hunting and urbanization. As we claim more avian territory the birds are either pushed out to find another habitat or they have to adapt to their environment that has been claimed. The trouble with this is that birds don't always do well with change. If they have to find other habitats they may have to coexist with other species; there may be territorial disputes that causes the birds to defend their territory or leave again in search of a friendly avian neighborhood. Though we move forward, there is plenty we can do to save the birds. We can make a home for birds, and we can go a step further and provide the birds with an avian sanctuary.

To understand bird ecology you have to understand the environment and urban sprawl. The birds lived happily in pastures, forests and on farms in corn fields and croplands. Then over time urbanization took place and these areas were developed; changing the landscape through human construction efforts has had a devastating effect on avian life. It continues, but we are getting better.

Studies on avian ecology and conservation teaches us that to protect birds from becoming extinct or endangered we must monitor the species of birds in an area and assess their interactions with each other, their environment and human activities in an area. Since we humans are the reason that birds are forced out of their environment, it is we who need to provide them a home so that we can coexist. Strategically placing birdhouses in your yard, hanging them from your porch or hanging them in trees is a good way to give back to the birds what urbanization has taken away.