Five Grants to Celebrate National Bird Day

Birds are a beautiful and important species for many ecosystems. Not only do they help keep away pests, but some members of the bird species also assist with pollinating. According to the organization BirdLife International, here are a few of the other ways that birds play a special role on our planet:

• Birds spread seeds.
• They transform entire landscapes.
• Birds also keep coral reefs alive.
• They help with developments in science.
• In addition, they provide waste disposal services. 

However, many species of birds are facing extinction in the current state of the world. The National Audubon Society predicts that around 1,200 species will battle extinction over the next 100 years. Luckily, many organizations such as this one are doing good work to protect animals and their homes, but this work requires funding that is not always easy to come by.

GrantWatch has a category specifically for Pets/Animals/Wildlife that includes many grants for research regarding animals and habitat restoration. These grants also include funding for many current and upcoming projects to help animals and wildlife. And in honor of National Bird Day on Jan. 5, GrantWatch is sharing five of the grants from this category specifically for helping birds.

Five Grants to Help Bird Organizations Take Flight

1. Firstly, there are grants to U.S. and territories nonprofits, for-profits, government agencies, and individuals for projects to protect migratory bird habitats. Required registrations must be completed prior to applying and may take several weeks to complete.
2. Grants of $500 to Wyoming organizations and individuals for wildlife conservation programs that promote the conservation of birds and other wildlife through outreach, education, and stewardship.
3. There are also grants of up to $2,000 to California organizations for programs in the areas of conserving or restoring habitats and protecting species in eligible regions. Funding will be awarded in the areas of the study and protection of wild birds, environmental education, and community outreach. The geographical area should be within 50 miles of Sacramento.
4. In addition, there is funding of up to $2,500 to Oregon and California nonprofit organizations and individuals in eligible locations for projects that promote the appreciation of wildlife. Emphasis will be on projects and initiatives focusing on the bird population and other natural resources. Programs must benefit the Klamath Basin region.
5. Grants of up to $1,000 to Texas nonprofits, school-based groups, and civic organizations for projects related to birding and bird habitat conservation. Funding is to promote understanding, appreciation, and awareness of birds and all wildlife while protecting and preserving their natural habitats. Projects must be based in the Fort Worth area, including Denton, Johnson, Parker, and Tarrant counties.

Ways to Celebrate National Bird Day:

1. Donate to a bird sanctuary or aviary.
2. Add bird feeders and shelters to your backyard.
3. Join a birdwatching club or buy a bird identifyer book and try it on your own.
4. Take the time to learn about your state bird.
5. Visit a zoo or bird sanctuary near you.