Monitoring Meadowlark Movements

Virginia Working Landscapes program director Amy Johnson holds an eastern meadowlark.
At first glance, Virginia’s farmlands seem quite peaceful. But beneath the swaying fields of hay lies a bustling ecosystem for the birds that call the grasslands home. One such avian animal—the eastern meadowlark—is key to the health of its habitat. Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) scientists are monitoring meadowlark movements—all for the cause of conservation. Learn more about this study from Amy Johnson, program director of SCBI's Virginia Working Landscapes. 
Shorebirds—including sanderling and dunlin—stroll on the beaches of the Delaware Bay aviary. Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute visitors will be able to see these migratory birds up close at the renovated Bird House, which will
Upon entering the Bird House, visitors will observe a towering mosaic arch decorated with parrots, toucans, songbirds and other tropical species. This artwork was originally part of the 1928 front entrance to the Bird House. Designed and fabricated by loc
A Baltimore oriole in the Bird Friendly Coffee Farm aviary.
Front profile of a male ovenbird, a small songbird with a brown back and a creamy white chest with brown streaks, sits perched on a branch.
Now Open: Visit the Renovated Bird House Exhibit
Two children play in a water table

Continue Exploring

October 04, 2024

Winter Habitat Impacts Migration

A new study shows environmental conditions in migratory birds’ winter homes affect their ability to survive the rest of the year.

August 20, 2024

Make Way For Ducklings and Chicks

On the wings of last year’s award-winning baby boom, our Bird House team recently welcomed 27 chicks among seven duck and songbird species! Meet them in this update.

July 17, 2024

Meet Our Rare Crane Chicks

Three fluffy feathered friends have joined the flock at our Front Royal, Virginia, campus: one whooping crane and two red-crowned crane chicks!