05 Dec How Your Everyday Choices Can Save Birds’ Lives
One of the big lessons that the increase in bird watching during the pandemic taught people, it is that birds lead really hard lives. From diseases spread at the bird feeders, domestic cat predation, and glass strikes, there are many challenges that face modern bird populations. Did you know that small changes in your daily routine can have a big impact on birds – both the ones in your backyard and those in the wild?
Birds, in particular, are highly sensitive to environmental changes because of their unique anatomy and complex migratory systems. Birds have a specialized respiratory system that includes air sacs throughout their body and even into their bones. This makes breathing incredibly efficient, a necessity for the high-energy demands of flight. But this also makes them more susceptible to toxins in the air, such as fumes from overheated Teflon pans, scented candles, and potpourri in our homes.
Teflon and other “forever chemicals,” also known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), are used in a wide range of household products like non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, food packaging, and stain-resistant fabrics. These chemicals are harmful not only to birds but also to humans and the environment, as they can persist in ecosystems for decades without breaking down.
While this is critical for pet bird owners to understand, it’s also a reminder for anyone who loves the birds in their backyard or local parks: small changes in our homes can help protect their habitats, too.
Every Choice Matters
By being mindful of what we use in our homes, we can create a safer environment for wildlife. Switching to non-toxic cleaning products, avoiding pesticides, and reducing air pollutants not only benefits birds but also improves the health of our ecosystems. Planting native species and providing clean water sources in your yard can create a sanctuary for local birds and pollinators, ensuring their survival and well-being.
Avian Behavior will be releasing our Bird Biology course in January 2025 for bird enthusiasts, professionals, and the bird curious to learn more about avian evolution, anatomy, physiology, and behavior ties into conservation.
Together, we can ensure a brighter future for the ecosystems that sustain us all.