Bird's Eye View: Summer 2025
category: GENERALURBAN BIRD CALL
Birders gather for a Black Birders Week 'Birds & Brews' event at Marsha P. Johnson State Park. Photo by NYC Bird Alliance
Jessica G. Wilson, Executive Director | May 22, 2025
When visiting the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge this spring, I was moved by the tenacity of Red Knots. With a wingspan of only 20 inches, some migrate up to 20,000 miles each year, relying on crucial stopovers like Jamaica Bay to fuel their incredible journey. While we may be overwhelmed by these unprecedented times and political challenges, the incredible journeys of these small birds—and the vital role places like Jamaica Bay play in their survival—inspire me to continue the fight for their protection.
The current political climate poses serious threats to birds and the organizations that work on their behalf. Rollbacks to environmental protections, proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act, and growing attacks on nonprofit advocacy and philanthropy are cause for deep concern. These challenges strike at the heart of our mission and demand a strong, collective response.
At NYC Bird Alliance, we know conservation isn’t just about science and policy—it’s also about people. With the many threats facing birds, it will take all of us to advocate for their protection and ensure that they thrive. Outreach and inclusion are key to this work, and that’s why I’m especially proud of our spring “Let’s Go Birding Together” outings which celebrate LGBTQ+ birders, and our lineup of programs during Black Birders Week. These experiences are part of our broader efforts to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging in nature and empowered to protect it.
As we grow our community, we’re also looking to the future. Over the past several months, we’ve worked with our board, staff, supporters, and partners to shape a new five-year strategic plan that will guide NYC Bird Alliance’s mission and ensure we remain resilient, even in the face of political obstacles. Informed by survey input from many of you, the plan centers our commitment to science-based advocacy, inclusive community engagement, and the protection of urban biodiversity. We look forward to sharing more in the months ahead.
Thank you for standing with us. In a time of uncertainty, your support gives us strength and helps make the City safer and more welcoming for the migrating and resident birds and all of us who share their home.
Jessica G. Wilson, Executive Director | May 22, 2025
When visiting the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge this spring, I was moved by the tenacity of Red Knots. With a wingspan of only 20 inches, some migrate up to 20,000 miles each year, relying on crucial stopovers like Jamaica Bay to fuel their incredible journey. While we may be overwhelmed by these unprecedented times and political challenges, the incredible journeys of these small birds—and the vital role places like Jamaica Bay play in their survival—inspire me to continue the fight for their protection.
The current political climate poses serious threats to birds and the organizations that work on their behalf. Rollbacks to environmental protections, proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act, and growing attacks on nonprofit advocacy and philanthropy are cause for deep concern. These challenges strike at the heart of our mission and demand a strong, collective response.
At NYC Bird Alliance, we know conservation isn’t just about science and policy—it’s also about people. With the many threats facing birds, it will take all of us to advocate for their protection and ensure that they thrive. Outreach and inclusion are key to this work, and that’s why I’m especially proud of our spring “Let’s Go Birding Together” outings which celebrate LGBTQ+ birders, and our lineup of programs during Black Birders Week. These experiences are part of our broader efforts to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging in nature and empowered to protect it.
As we grow our community, we’re also looking to the future. Over the past several months, we’ve worked with our board, staff, supporters, and partners to shape a new five-year strategic plan that will guide NYC Bird Alliance’s mission and ensure we remain resilient, even in the face of political obstacles. Informed by survey input from many of you, the plan centers our commitment to science-based advocacy, inclusive community engagement, and the protection of urban biodiversity. We look forward to sharing more in the months ahead.
Thank you for standing with us. In a time of uncertainty, your support gives us strength and helps make the City safer and more welcoming for the migrating and resident birds and all of us who share their home.
