A groundbreaking research study published in PLOS ONE on August 7, 2024 has uncovered alarming new evidence that building collisions are killing significantly more birds than previously estimated—well over one billion annually in the United States alone. The research, conducted by scientists at Fordham University, NYC Bird Alliance, American Bird Conservancy, and Stony Brook University examined outcomes for over 3,000 birds injured in building collisions and brought to rehabilitators across multiple states. Their findings uncovered that only 40% of birds with injuries from collisions survive, even with the highest standards of wildlife rehabilitator care. 

We're thrilled to share the new name of our organization: as of June 6, 2024, we’re now NYC Bird Alliance! In Spring 2023, we embarked on a process to choose a new name that is more welcoming and representative of our mission to protect wild birds and habitat across New York City. While our name has changed, our work will not. We remain a committed chapter of National Audubon and bird conservation organizations across the country, and are proud to have a name that represents our inclusive work and growing impact.  Learn more at nycbirdalliance.org/name.

The Urban Bird Call (formerly The Urban Audubon) is our glossy publication mailed to NYC Bird Alliance members, connecting readers with the latest news on our organization’s activities and events, interesting topics in birding and conservation, and more. Our Fall 2024 issue has arrived, and you can read the digital version online right now! 

For over 40 years, NYC Bird Alliance scientists have monitored and protected 10 species of herons, egrets, and ibis—collectively known as the Harbor Herons—that nest on wild islands throughout our City’s waterways. This past year, NYC Bird Alliance surveyed 19 harbor islands revealing some amazing highs and concerning lows. We found that wading birds are demonstrating resilience to rising sea levels, and Great Blue Herons have nested in Manhattan—a first for modern times! But populations like the Black-crowned Night Heron and Glossy Ibis are also in steady decline. Learn what factors are affecting our NY Harbor wildlife–and how we can help—in our State of the Harbor Herons Report.

Our collision monitoring program works with the City's most dangerous buildings for birds to implement solutions such as bird-friendly glass retrofits, green roof installations, and/or "Lights Out" protocol implementations -- helping to reduce the 250,000 annual bird deaths from collisions in New York City! Our high-profile work on retrofits at Circa Central Park made the front page of the Oct. 17 New York Times. It is one of many buildings we're working with to make our City safe for birds. Learn about the ever-growing list of "bird-safe actors" we work with!

New York City: the City that Never Sleeps, the Center of the Universe…and a major raptor hotspot? It comes as a shock to many that in our huge metropolis, birds of prey could find a place to even survive, let alone thrive. Learn about all the birds of prey that surprisingly call New York City home (including the increasingly common Bald Eagle!) in our Urban Raptor online guide. 

Equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) is a central pillar of NYC Bird Alliance’s 2020-2025 strategic plan. The protection of birds depends on work and support across all of the City’s communities. The organization has worked consistently to center EDIA in our conservation, engagement, and advocacy work; in our communications and outreach; in our board governance; and in our internal operations. We are proud to share some highlights of this work. 

Many migrating birds are injured as they pass through New York City, most often in collisions with glass windows.  Learn what to do if you find an injured bird and help it continue on its migratory journey.