Finally, this report captures the changes in bird distribution that seem to be unmistakable markers of climate change since many historically southern species are now permanent residents Birds inhabit our myths, appear in our poetry, and inspire our music. Since ancient times, birds have been used in auguries to make critical decisions or predict the future. Now science rather than superstition is interpreting what the birds are telling us. We need to listen carefully.

But as a longtime observer of the natural world, I am alarmed by the

challenges facing many Bay State bird species. Grassland and early-successional habitats are declining sharply, signaling the loss of biodiversity particular to those ecosystems. Many marshland birds are also decreasing, raising questions about the

functionality of our wetlands. Even many “common” birds, such as swallows and blue jays, are gradually losing ground. My concern is not simply for the loss of birdlife, but that birds as nature’s heralds are signaling broader ecological deterioration. Finally, this report captures the changes in bird distribution that seem to be unmistakable markers of