Numerous varieties of wildlife can be seen and enjoyed in Louisiana's cities. Squirrels, doves, mockingbirds, robins and other types of animals make a trip to the park or a stroll down the street an escape from the fast pace of our cities. This urban wildlife has contributed to the popular hobby of birdwatching, which has become a source of revenue in Louisiana. An estimated 63 million Americans watch and feed birds each year. Economic gains are not the only benefits we get from migratory birds.
Migratory birds are a crucial indicator of the overall health of our ecosystem.
We should all be concerned when migratory bird species are in decline. To maintain a healthy ecosystem and continue generating revenue from birdwatching we must ensure migratory birds have the proper habitats to survive. As a strong supporter of migratory birds and a member of the federal Migratory Bird Commission, I strongly support the Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds that was started by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service to help ensure bird populations are stable. This treaty is a partnership between the wildlife service and the city. A treaty city conserves migratory birds through education and habitat improvement projects.