Cardinals on the Move

Are birds still able to move about freely as their habitat is becoming increasingly fragmented by roads and buildings? Scientists have begun a new study to find out.

Scientists will attach radio transmitters to northern cardinals, a non-migratory resident bird that is common in the Washington, D.C. area. Then, they will transport the birds to areas far away from their home territory. Some will be placed in isolated patches of habitat in an urban area while others will be released in areas of contiguous habitat.

Researches will track the birds to see how long it takes them to return to their homes, what route they take (staying along forested edges or crossing urban areas), and whether there is a difference depending on which type of habitat they are released in.