Birds

The Raptor Resource Project monitors birds across the Midwest. Viewers can watch and learn about the once nearly extinct species through a free webcam and see the hatchings of Wisconsin’s “Mrs. and Mr. T” bald eagles.

Snowy owl sightings in Wisconsin are up this winter, compared to recent years. Posts sharing their location on social media can bring birders out in force. But wildlife experts say sharing rare species locations online can be stressful for animals confronted with camera-wielding crowds.

The recent uptick in avian flu is not only affecting industrial chickens, eggs and cattle. It’s also harming wild birds.

Wisconsin wildlife officials have identified the highly contagious avian influenza virus in wild ducks along Lake Michigan.

The Milwaukee County Zoo is closing its aviary for “the foreseeable future” as a precaution against highly contagious avian flu, the zoo announced Thursday.

For those lucky enough to spot a snowy owl this winter, experts say the best approach is to enjoy the rare sighting from afar and allow these birds to continue their journey undisturbed.

DNR conservation biologist Ryan Brady Brady joined WPR’s “The Larry Meiller Show” to talk about the breeding and predation habits of snowy owls, as well as the threats they during their long journey and time here in Wisconsin.

Passenger pigeons have been extinct for over a century, but conservation groups want to bring them back for their role in forestry management. Their hordes were thought to create exceptionally green forests and fertile farmland.

As migrating birds fly south through Wisconsin, they encounter hazards that can be fatal – such as cats, wind turbines and windows.  

Bird enthusiasts have gathered in the same spot on the shores of Lake Superior for over 25 years to see migrating parasitic jaegers.