2023 Bird City Texas recipients announced
Feb. 22—AUSTIN — Audubon Texas and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department announced Austin and Cedar Hill as the newest additions to the Bird City Texas flock.
This certification program recognizes cities efforts to ensure birds, wildlife and people thrive in their communities. Austin and Cedar Hill have displayed leadership as Bird Friendly Cities by excelling in three criteria areas: community engagement, habitat enhancement and protection and creating safer spaces for birds. Their Bird City Texas certification will continue through 2026.
Since the Bird City Texas program began in 2020, eight other cities have been certified. Certified cities participate in the community-focused program to protect birds and their habitats where people live, work and recreate. To do this, cities employ science-based bird initiatives and community-centric action. The Bird City Texas communities are able to leverage this designation to attract 2.2 million bird watchers in Texas, a major component of the $1.8 billion economic impact from Texas wildlife viewing across the state.
As spring approaches, certified communities will host a variety of events across the state in support of breeding birds migrating back to northern nesting territories as well as World Migratory Bird Day on May 13. Interested participants are encouraged to visit the websites of certified cities, Audubon Texas and TPWD for opportunities to celebrate and learn more about how to support birds.
Communities interested in applying for a 2024 Bird City Texas certification can find general information here and view criteria information. The next Bird City Texas application cycle will begin in late spring of 2023.
