Recent research suggests that the challenges bird communities already face are exacerbated by climate change. As climate change brings shifts of habitats, birds can be among the first to tell the story of climate trends. Just like the canary in a coal mine, they may alert us to what is happening and what the future holds. If we are paying attention.

John D. Alexander is the executive director and co-founder of the Klamath Bird Observatory. He has worked to integrate bird conservation with natural resource management in the Pacific Northwest since 1992. He is focused on applying bird conservation science as a tool for advancing ecosystem conservation regionally, nationally, and internationally.

His expertise includes participatory action research; ecological monitoring and research; science delivery for overcoming land stewardship challenges; and development of applied science tools and teaching materials for natural resource management professionals, community members, and students of all ages.