SELVA’s migratory ecology program strives to generate knowledge that has a direct impact on decision-making processes related to the conservation of migratory birds. By describing the needs of migratory birds during migration and on their stationary non-breeding grounds, we provide the building blocks for conservation planning processes and the development of science-based solutions.

Over the last 10 years SELVA has participated in the formulation of several conservation plans including the Golden-winged Warbler non-breeding grounds plan and the Canada Warbler non-breeding grounds plan. More recently (beginning in 2019), we were one of the lead organizations for the development of a Conservation Investment Strategy for mid-elevation forests in Central and South America, coordinated by Partners in Flight. The latter plan uses an ecosystem approach to protect, restore and enhance critical habitat for Cerulean, Golden-winged and Canada Warblers, by mitigating the threats that lead to habitat loss and associated population declines. The strategies outlined in the plan, currently form the basis for SELVA’s conservation programs for migratory landbirds in the Andes of Colombia and in Central America.

Projects designed to conserve migratory landbirds have taken several forms and include habitat restoration/enhancement, protected area creation, environmental education and the implementation of best practices in coffee growing landscape. For more information on our conservation programs for migratory landbirds please contact us.