Did you know that Brookfield Zoo Chicago is home to dozens of species of birds? Download our birding checklist!

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Learn more about how Brookfield Zoo Chicago cares for native birds:
 

Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) SAFE North American Songbird Program 

Approximately 3.5 billion birds from hundreds of different species of perching birds call North America home during their migratory season. As they move throughout the continent, they face a variety of threats that have caused many species to be in decline. Since 1970, North American birds have suffered a net loss of three billion birds. 

Brookfield Zoo Chicago participates in the AZA SAFE North American Songbird Program to help identify survival threats, support recovery, and offer you opportunities to learn more about at-risk species. 

Threats 

• • Habitat loss 

• • Roaming domestic cats 

• • Window collisions 

• • Contaminants 

How We Care 

• BZC protects North American songbirds by 

• • Reducing window collision on the grounds. 

• • Developing natural habitats where feasible. 

• • Using community-based science programs to monitor the passerine population in the area, such as the Zoo's biannual BioBlitz with iNaturalist, or King Conservation Leadership Academy programs that offer kids and families the resources they need for birding. 

• • Sharing how the public can help migratory birds.  

• • Partnering with other organizations that protect pollinators, such as the Illinois Monarch Project 
   

  Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) SAFE Red Siskin Program 

  In the early twentieth century, the red siskin was nearly wiped out for its coveted brilliant red feathers and the creation of the red canary – red siskins hybridized with domestic canaries. Though there’s hope for continued rebuilding of the population, the red siskin is considered one of the most endangered bird species in the world, with an estimated remaining 1,500 to 7,000 adults. 

  Brookfield Zoo Chicago participates in the AZA SAFE Red Siskin Program to help identify survival threats, support recovery, and offer you opportunities to learn more about at-risk species. 
   

  Threats 

• • Poaching for plumage and trafficking 

• • Habitat loss

• • Inbreeding and loss of genetic diversity 

•  

• How We Care 

• • Brookfield Zoo Chicago houses and breeds red siskins to contribute to the growth of the population.  

• • The zoo raises awareness and promotes bird-friendly crops. 

• • The Zoo shares vital information with the Red Siskin SSP to assist the population in human care.