Birds

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Birds
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Over 11,000 species of birds exist in the world, and nearly 400 of them have been found in Missouri! They are found in every habitat, from city centers to the middle of nowhere. Birds enhance our lives in nearly every way, playing significant roles in the ecosystem, economy, and outdoor recreation. Birds are awesome! 

Sadly, bird numbers are declining at a rapid pace. Since 1970, North America has lost 2.9 billion, or 29 percent of its birds! That’s shocking. But there are simple steps we can take today to help our feathered friends.

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Browse this section to learn:

  • Birdwatching basics
  • What to feed backyard birds
  • How to create backyard habitat for birds
  • General bird facts
  • Why birds matter
  • Why bird numbers are declining and how you can help
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Birds Are Everywhere!

Birds are the most easily observed wildlife and are found in all corners of the world. Their vibrant colors and diverse life strategies fill us with wonder and prod us to get outside to see new species.  

If birdwatching is not already one of your hobbies, spend a little time watching birds and you might just get hooked! 

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Featured Topics
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Learn about key features that will help you tell bird species apart. 

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The ruby-throated hummingbird is one of our most fascinating birds. Attract these summer visitors by providing food for them in your yard or garden.

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Ten things you can do to bring more birds to your property and enjoy watching them.

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MDC Bird News
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The Squeak is Back! 

MDC and partner organizations are bringing the brown-headed nuthatch back to the Missouri Ozarks. Known for its call that sounds like a rubber ducky, this small songbird has not been seen in Missouri since the early 1900s — until now! 

Read about the reintroduction of brown-headed nuthatches to the Mark Twain National Forest in the April 2021 Missouri Conservationist

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Tracking Birds with Motus

MDC is now part of a new wildlife tracking program called Motus. By tracking bird movement, researchers find out where birds go during migration and how long they stay in those areas. 

Learn how Motus research helps our conservation efforts.

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In This Section
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Browse tips and tools to get started identifying birds around your home or out in the field.

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Learn what seeds, feeders, and landscaping choices will attract which birds to your Missouri backyard.

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More than 390 bird species are known to occur in Missouri. Learn what sets birds apart from other groups of animals.

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Provide food, shelter, and habitat to attract birds to your backyard or property.

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Birds benefit ecosystems and enhance our lives in numerous ways. Find out how. 

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Over the last 50 years the number of birds in North America has declined by 29 percent. Learn how you can help slow the declines.