How do you go about reestablishing a population of birds that has declined significantly in the past 20 years? With community participation, lots of new nest boxes, and Audubon New York!
Breeding pairs of American Kestrels in New York have decreased due to a lack of nest cavities in remaining suitable habitat. (Suitable habitat for the birds’ nest boxes can be found in Long Island, Buffalo, and even on highway rights-of-way!) Therefore, to bring back the American Kestrel in its state, Audubon New York and its partners will engage hundreds of individuals in a coordinated effort to build, erect, and monitor nest boxes.
In addition, Audubon New York will use this hands-on experience to teach people about the plight of kestrels and other grassland birds, and encouraging these engaged citizens to act in the name of environmental stewardship.
Overall, Audubon New York hopes to engage volunteers in building 200 kestrel nest boxes and setting up a nest box monitoring program. They'll also provide opportunities for New Yorkers to voice their concerns to governmental and non-profit conservation groups. After gaining a better understanding of the kestrel through this project, community members will feel a real sense of ownership and pride towards the birds’ continued success.
Volunteers won’t just be giving kestrels homes—they’ll be giving them a voice!