Birds are some of the most visible—and vulnerable—indicators of forest health. Many of the Northeast’s priority species depend on a shifting mosaic of habitats: young forests for nesting, mature stands for foraging, and shrublands or old fields for cover. Meeting those needs requires management that looks beyond any single stand or property.
At Pekin Branch Forestry, we weave bird-friendly forestry into every stage of planning and implementation. Our forester Neal Maker is one of the nation’s first Audubon-endorsed Foresters for the Birds, and we partner closely with Audubon Vermont and Audubon New York to ensure our work supports the species that need it most.
Looking at the Bigger Picture
Bird conservation can’t stop at property boundaries. We assess each forest in the context of its surrounding landscape—mapping important habitats, wildlife corridors, and regional conservation priorities—so that every landowner’s decisions contribute to a healthier whole. This landscape-scale approach allows us to create the mix of habitats that migratory and resident birds require throughout the year.
Bringing It to the Ground
Conservation also happens tree by tree, stand by stand. By managing for structural diversity—retaining cavity trees, creating young forest patches, restoring mast-producing species, and protecting riparian buffers—we provide the elements birds depend on. Our silvicultural choices are guided by a deep understanding of both forest dynamics and bird life cycles, ensuring that management supports biodiversity alongside timber and other values.
Why It Matters
Healthy bird populations are more than an ecological goal. They signal forests that are resilient, diverse, and functioning well. They also enrich the experience of owning land—whether it’s the morning song of a wood thrush or the glimpse of a migrating warbler.
By weaving bird habitat into our forest management, we help landowners contribute to a larger conservation story—creating vibrant forests that sing with life while remaining productive and resilient.