Conservation of Boreal Birds in the Adirondack Park: Report to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

Adirondack Watershed Institute

Michale Glennon

The Adirondack Park in northern New York State represents the southern range extent for several species of boreal forest birds within eastern North America. These birds are vulnerable to climate change due to their affinity for northern boreal habitat types and are expected to be sensitive to warming temperatures (Moore 2002, Niemi et al. 1998, Pastor et al. 1998). These habitats are naturally fragmented in the Adirondacks, with patches of boreal wetland habitat surrounded by temperate forest habitat types (Jenkins 2010).

Our long-term monitoring reveals that several boreal bird species appear to be in decline. Our research has found that boreal birds are much more likely to disappear from smaller, isolated wetlands that are close to roads and other infrastructure. These are sensitive species and may face competition from more cosmopolitan birds (e.g., blue Jay, red-winged blackbird) that successfully exploit altered habitats. Some species also appear to be moving northward or upslope in response to climate change and all are sensitive to changing temperature and precipitation patterns. Ultimately, the declining status of boreal birds in our landscape is likely the result of a combination of these factors.

Building on prior analyses (Glennon 2014, Glennon et al. 2019a,b), this report provides updated trend information from 16 years of monitoring. We also identify critical habitat areas for boreal birds in the Adirondack Park and examine their protection status. Last, we address the adequacy of current protections for boreal wetlands in the Adirondacks and provide recommendations and best management practices for the management of boreal species and their habitats.