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Wetlands provide food and shelter for numerous birds year-round: Whimbrels in west coast estuaries, Bonaparte’s Gulls on marshy lakes in the boreal, pelicans on prairie potholes, bitterns in Great Lakes coastal marshes, rails in wetlands along the St. Lawrence, sandpipers on Bay of Fundy mudflats, and on and on. Many bird species spend some or all of their lives in a wetland, so protecting them has never been more important

In 2024, the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) assessed the status of six bird species, two for the first time. Of the reassessed species, just one improved in status since its previous assessment; the remainder are unchanged, or reassessed at a higher threat level. Ninety-four bird species are now assessed to be at risk of extinction in Canada, a number that only keeps rising.

The Blackpoll Warbler (Setophaga striata) is a small but extraordinary songbird renowned for its incredible migratory journeys. Weighing just 12 grams, this bird connects boreal forests in North America to tropical regions in South America by traveling thousands of kilometers each year. For the last decade a dedicated group of researchers have been studying the complexities of Blackpoll Warbler migration in order to address the pressing need for conservation action.

Joining the longest-running bird census is a way for all of us to help protect wild birds.

As 2024 draws to a close, we reflect on our Avian Ambassador for the year—the Olive-sided Flycatcher, whose diplomatic mission began way back in May when they first arrived in Canada. They brought us an urgent message, but to understand it we must pay close attention.

Now in its 20th year of operation, the Avian Conservation and Ecology (ACE) scientific journal has now published over 500 articles on a diversity of topics that have been viewed online millions of times. The sound science and conservation recommendations that ACE provides are needed now more than ever. Dr Doug Tozer recently announced a number of changes to the team while showing gratitude for the people behind the magazine.

It’s a big year for the Christmas Bird Count (CBC) as we celebrate 125 years! Starting with 27 participants looking for an alternative to the “Christmas Side Hunt”, the CBC has grown into an important Citizen Science program which contributes to research across North America. We took a moment to reflect on the history of the program, its evolution, and the role it plays in addressing current environmental issues.

Imagine a tiny wood duckling perched high in a tree cavity, just one day old. With courage beyond its size, it leaps into the unknown, wings outstretched, and lands on the forest floor. Guided by its mother’s call, it begins a journey to the wetlands, where it will thrive, surrounded by marshes and towering trees. This single, bold act is a metaphor for hope—a testament to the resilience of nature and the power of conservation.