The treaty unites the City of New Orleans and the Wildlife Service in an effort to protect America's urban songbird population. The unique birds of New Orleans, immortalized by the paintings and impressions of naturalist James Audubon, have always been a precious resource. We are grateful for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for helping us continue eco-positive practices.
Urban birds are among the nation's most endangered bird groups.
The urban treaty pilot program was designed to help cities conserve migratory bird populations and their habitat through voluntary partnerships. This project serves as a model for future habitat restoration and education partnerships. Within the New Orleans city limits is the 23,000 acre Bayou Savage National Wildlife Refuge, the nation's largest urban refuge. The city offers an opportunity to inaugurate the program in an area known for its native bird resources and its importance as a way-station for bird migrating to and from the Caribbean, Central America and South America. With 517 refuges scattered throughout all 50 states, many of which are near urban areas, the Wildlife Service is in an ideal position to work with urban communities and their residents on bird conservation initiatives.