Mission Statement
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To protect, enhance and restore habitat for North American birds and to educate
Our goal is to improve habitat for migrating birds one backyard at a time.
"Study after study has shown that habitat loss and degradation are the primary threats to healthy bird populations. Nothing else comes close. That's why I am such a strong supporter of Saving Birds Thru Habitat and its programs that teach so many people how to improve habitats for birds."
Dr. Gregory Butcher,
Director of Bird Conservation National Audubon Society
Picture taken by Peter LaTourrette
Scarlet Tanagers, like the one shown here, are experiencing a steep population decline. One of the ways to help this species, and others – like warblers – is to purchase shade-grown coffee. Many of the songbirds that breed in North America spend part or all of the winter in shade coffee plantations. Check out our “Shade Coffee Habitat” page to learn more about the differences between shade and sun coffee plantations, and the effect each has on birds.
Picture taken by Peter LaTourrette
Many other spectacular migrating songbirds, like this Indigo Bunting – as well as others such as warblers, orioles and thrushes – are experiencing population declines. Most of these species depend on insects for at least part of their needs, and all must have insects to feed their young. By and large, native plants host those insects. It is the goal of Saving Birds Thru Habitat to improving habitat for these migrants, one backyard at a time. Check out our “Habitat Info” page to learn more.
Picture taken by Peter LaTourrette
Our Habitat Discovery Center on three acres of mixed habitat. It is located adjacent to a native prairie system that is part of a 44-acre private bird sanctuary. Bobolinks, Eastern Meadowlarks, Grasshopper Sparrows and other upland nesting birds can be seen from the Center.
DIRECTIONS:Follow M-22 along Grand Traverse Bay through Suttons Bay. Just over a mile north of the Leelanau Sands Casino, turn left on Putnam. Drive 2 miles to 5020 N. Putnam. Look for our sign on the right - immediately past Tatch Road.
Tree Branch Blue Bird House Plans [Adobe PDF Document]
HABITAT INFORMATION LINKS
Wild Ones: Native Plants, Natural Landscapes
eNature.com: Native Plant Guide