Series: Birds of the American Southwest

Birds are an important and lively component of many ecosystems in the American Southwest. While birds delight park visitors and birdwatchers, birds are also excellent indicators of environmental change because of how easily they are affected by changing conditions around them. As a result, understanding more about bird populations in the Southwest helps illuminate broader local and regional ecosystem changes.

• Article 1: Birds in the American Southwest - Introduction, Distribution, and Life History

  

  The various unique ecosystems of the American Southwest support an especially high diversity of bird species. With so many species represented, the birds' ranges and life histories are similarly diverse. Read more

• Article 2: Birds in the American Southwest - Ecological and Park Management Context

  

  Birds can be affected directly or indirectly by natural forces and disturbances, as well as by human activities and park management decisions. Read more

• Article 3: Birds in the American Southwest - Threats and Concerns

  

  Several of the major threats and concerns regarding birds within the Southwest include: climate change, invasive exotic plants, land use (including development, water management, and livestock grazing), altered fire regimes, and disease. Examples of additional threats include visitor use and air pollution. Read more

• Article 4: Birds in the American Southwest - Sources of Information and Literature Cited

  

  A variety of books and online resources are available to those seeking more information on the distribution and life history of bird species in the Southwest and beyond. Read more